PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Forward has returned home.

Forward pulled into port on Saturday, July 27 after a 60-day patrol of the Caribbean Sea. While on deployment, crew members conducted detection and monitoring operations for illegal drugs bound for the U.S. The crew assisted with the apprehension of five suspected smugglers and the seizure of 8,248 pounds of narcotics. 

Additionally, Forward’s crew rescued three migrants from a sinking vessel. After receiving medical attention, the migrants were returned to their country.

“Forward’s operational success came down to two things: the crew’s superior dedication and the strength of the Joint Interagency Task Force – South network,” said Cmdr. Andrew Grantham, commanding officer of Forward. “I am proud of the crew’s tenacity to overcome all challenges to get the job done.”  

Those interested in joining the U.S. Coast Guard, visit GoCoastGuard.com to learn about active duty, reserve, officer, and enlisted opportunities.