Billion Dollar Drug Busts to be Highlighted at DC Tribute Event on June 10

This premier military recognition event brings together U.S. Coast Guard leaders, federal officials, maritime industry partners, and patriotic supporters to celebrate the service and sacrifice of Coast Guard members across the country.

The program will include remarks from senior DHS and Coast Guard officials, highlighting recent operations and achievements that reflect the service's enduring commitment to America’s national security, maritime safety, and economic strength. 

The Foundation will honor two Charleston, South Carolina, -based crews from the U.S. Coast Guard Cutters Stone and James, both of which concluded recent deployments with record-breaking drug interdiction operations. On March 20 the crew of the Stone offloaded more than $517 million in cocaine and marijuana seized during a deployment to the Eastern Pacific, while James returned home April 12 after confiscating $510 million in illicit narcotics during a months-long mission. 

These operations demonstrate the Coast Guard’s essential role in combating transnational criminal organizations and defending the maritime borders of the United States.

The Foundation will also present STACK Infrastructure with its prestigious Guardian Award. STACK Infrastructure CEO Brian Cox will receive the award on behalf of the company, which is being honored for its exceptional commitment to the Coast Guard community. A global leader in custom data center solutions, STACK has played a pivotal role in organizing and funding the Heroes of the Sea Fishing Tournament for more than seven years, raising over $2 million in support for the Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officers Association. 

These efforts have provided critical scholarships, emergency aid, and professional development for Coast Guard members and their families. Now partnering with the Coast Guard Foundation, STACK is expanding its impact nationwide, earning recognition for its steadfast support of those who serve and protect our Nation’s waters.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Coast Guard Foundation’s programs, which provide scholarships for Coast Guard families, support morale and wellness initiatives, and deliver emergency assistance during natural disasters and personal hardship. Contributions help strengthen the lives of Coast Guard members and their loved ones nationwide.

This Washington, D.C. tribute dinner offers a unique opportunity for supporters and businesses to engage with military leaders and honor those who serve. 

The Foundation is grateful to lead sponsors Cheniere Energy, the Gary Sinise Foundation, Austal USA, Lockheed Martin, and SSAB Americas for their generous support.

Title Image: Coast Guard Cutter James law enforcement officers board a narco sub in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, Jan. 7, 2025. (U.S. Coast Guard photo)

Disclosure: AI was used to consolidate Coast Guard and Coast Guard Foundation content for the text of this article.