The United States Coast Guard held a formal swearing-in and assumption of command ceremony Jan. 15, 2026, for Adm. Kevin Lunday as the 28th commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard during an event at Coast Guard Headquarters.
The Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security joined senior Coast Guard leadership, members of the Joint Force, and distinguished guests, including PVA Executive Director John Groundwater and Legislative Director Richard Patch, in recognizing the transition of command. PVA’s attendance underscored the association’s longstanding partnership with the Coast Guard and commitment to collaborating on the issues that matter the most to the maritime industry.
Upon taking the oath of office, Lunday formally assumed the responsibilities of commandant and reaffirmed the Coast Guard’s enduring role as a vital instrument of national power responsible for controlling, securing, and defending the U.S. border and maritime approaches, facilitating the safe and secure flow of commerce, and responding to crises and contingencies that may come without warning.
“I am honored to assume command of the United States Coast Guard,” said Adm. Kevin Lunday. “Every day, Coast Guard men and women carry out missions that protect our homeland, secure our maritime borders, save lives and protect national security. I am humbled to serve alongside them while ensuring they have what they need to succeed—today and in the future.”
Lunday was appointed acting commandant on Jan. 21, 2025, following the departure of former commandant Adm. Linda Fagan. He was formally nominated by the president in October 2025 to serve in the role permanently and was confirmed in December by the Senate. Previously, he served as the vice commandant from June 2024 to January 2025.
As commandant, Lunday leads 57,000 Coast Guard military (active and reserve) and civilian personnel, supported by 21,000 auxiliary volunteers. He will lead the service’s continued transformation through Force Design 2028, while strengthening operational readiness and supporting the Coast Guard workforce and their families.