When Culture and Doctrine Collide: Military, Multi-Mission, Maritime Service?

A quiet evolution is underway…the U.S. Coast Guard, always best known for its humanitarian and life-saving efforts, is now squarely focused on its military and national defense mission. The events of September 11, 2001, and the subsequent increased national interest in homeland security has accelerated this evolution, as typified by remarks in the 2001 Quadrennial Defense Review, as well as the service’s recent promulgation of it’s first doctrinal guidance, Coast Guard Publication. Coast Guard Pub 1 has done a credible job of identifying the multi-mission nature of the service, and its rich traditions. However, it falls short in addressing how the service will manage this multi-mission character in the future, specifically with regard to forging consistent critical roles and missions in joint military operations.

Some of the service’s rich traditions, however, represent a stark contrast to this new “war fighter” mentality. Managing this cultural-doctrinal gap is critical to the service, as it struggles to define and forge a constant and consistent role in the joint military operations environment. For a combatant commander, however, understanding these cultural distinctions can result in enhanced appreciation of unique and extensive Coast Guard mission capabilities and a more effective utilization of forces.