The crew of U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Gerczak (WPC 1126) is visiting Suva this week to work alongside the nation of Fiji to conduct bilateral maritime law enforcement operations.

This joint effort enables Fiji to ensure the safety and security of sailors and vessels of all nations by conducting maritime shiprider operations within their Exclusive Economic Zone.

The vessel is here on behalf of Operation Blue Pacific, an overarching multi-mission U.S. Coast Guard endeavor promoting regional stability and security throughout the Pacific.

The cutter recently assisted the Republic of Marshall Islands with their maritime law enforcement operations.
The U.S Embassy in Fiji says Joseph Gerczak’s presence in Fiji is rooted in longstanding friendships and the values we share with partners and communities in the region.

“The U.S. Coast Guard is committed to helping Fiji confront direct threats to its sovereignty and economy, such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, drug trafficking, and other transnational crimes. Together, the U.S. Coast Guard and Fiji can partner to deter these illegal activities to promote regional security and a free, open, and prosperous Pacific.”

CGC Joseph Gerczak is a 154-foot Fast Response Cutter (FRC) with a 24-person crew. It was the 26th sentinel-class cutter built in the series and the second of its class to be homeported in Honolulu. The Joseph Gerczak was designed for various missions crucial to protecting the Pacific region.

Operation Blue Pacific is an overarching multi-mission Coast Guard endeavor to promote security, safety, sovereignty and economic prosperity in Oceania.

Coast Guard cutters, aircrews and personnel deploy throughout Oceania to maintain unrestricted, lawful access to the maritime domain for all nations, improve regional stability, and solidify the Coast Guard as a reliable partner for maritime safety, security and stewardship in the Pacific.