Coast Guard Cutter Stone, homeported in Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the Service’s best workplaces. Check out this video about us and read on to learn more about why members love working here.
Our Missions
Over the past year, the crew has had a unique afloat experience, preparing the cutter to be a full multi-mission asset supporting Coast Guard and national security objectives. Stone recently completed its two-month Combat Systems Ship Qualification Trials (CSSQT) by completing 19 events, including six live-fire exercises, to earn surface and air warfare certifications from the U.S. Navy. The crew excelled during an accelerated Tailored Ships Training Availability (TSTA) in half the time of typical TSTAs. Stone participated in a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) to prepare the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps assets to support maritime stability and security to defend the interest of the U.S. and its Allied partners. The COMPTUEX was a round-the clock efforts from all hands aboard Stone, especially the Combat Information Center (CIC) team, that included a simulated contested straits transit where Stone defended high value units.
“The crew and the mission opportunities are what I enjoy most,” said OS2 Kyleigh Cason. “No matter what the situation is people are positive and we get through it together.”
Why Our Work is Fulfilling
Beyond operational duties, the crew is deeply involved in the community. In January 2024, STONE docked in downtown Charleston for public tours and to celebrate the Greater Charleston Area becoming an official Coast Guard Community. Over 2,500 visitors toured the cutter, including Congresswoman Nancy Mace, the Coast Guard Commandant, the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard (MCPOCG), and local officials.
The crew also participates in community outreach and volunteer programs, such as Special Olympics bowling events, a school-wide dodgeball tournament at Alston Middle School, and Habitat for Humanity projects. Stone organized a Purple Heart Day event, inviting all Charleston-based crews to participate in a walk across the 2.5-mile Ravenel Bridge honoring men and woman who have been killed or wounded as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. military.
Fun and Morale
Stone has a vibrant morale and public-affairs program, winning third place in the CDR Jim Simpson Award in 2023. The cutter’s Facebook page, with 4,600 followers, showcases activities aboard the ship. Stone’s morale program earned second place in the Coast Guard MWR Unit Program of the Year for 2022 and 2023. Following the tours of the Stone, MCPOCG referred to the environment aboard the cutter as something “to bottle up” and shared with others. The success of all programs is a result of Stone’s dedicated and ever-involved Chief’s Mess. Support from Chiefs across all departments aboard the cutter facilitates success, resulting in high morale and sustained performance amongst the crew.
“The command has allowed us to create our culture and climate which has resulted in a family environment where people genuinely enjoy being with one another,” said OS2 Andrea Daring.
Women Warfighters of Stone
Women crewmembers have dubbed themselves the “Women Warfighters of Stone,” a moniker adopted to draw attention to the accomplishments and opportunities provided to women onboard this highly capable national security cutter. The "Women Warfighters of Stone" serve vital in several key roles in law enforcement, defense, engineering, and support missions.
- The CIC Officer and Gun Control Officers, both women, lead their respective teams through the battle rhythms.
- Women run the SLQ-32 anti-ship missile protection system and the MK160 gun system that controls the MK 110 57 mm gun.
- The head of law enforcement response is a female Maritime Enforcement Specialist.
- The Damage Control Assistant – charged with coordinating responses to all damage control emergencies onboard – has by her side multiple female engineers to ensure the ship’s sea-going readiness.
Stone’s whole crew embodies the Stone’s motto of Always Proud, Always Professional, and Always Prepared. Their dedication and teamwork make Stone an exceptional place to serve.
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USCGC STONE Hype Video