The following is text from a post on Compass, the official blog of the U.S. Coast Guard:
(WASHINGTON) — Adm. Paul F. Zukunft assumed command of the United States Coast Guard in a change of command ceremony teeming with naval tradition at Douglas A. Munro Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
Upon relieving Adm. Bob Papp of his command, the new commandant reflected on the outgoing commandant’s accomplishments.
“Adm. Papp’s leadership and resolve have left an indelible mark on the service,” said Zukunft. “The Coast Guard is more proficient, more capable and more resilient due to his contributions and I wish him fair winds and following seas.”
Zukunft also introduced the guiding principles which will frame his direction for the service over the next four years:
Service to the nation – "We will serve our nation through the selfless performance of our missions."
Duty to people – "We will honor our duty to protect those we serve and those who serve with us."
Commitment to excellence – "We will commit ourselves to excellence by supporting and executing our operations in a proficient and professional manner."
As the 25th commandant of the Coast Guard, Zukunft will lead the largest component of the Department of Homeland Security, comprised of 41,700 active duty, 7,800 reserve and 8,300 civilian personnel as well as 31,000 volunteer Coast Guard auxiliarists.
A 1977 graduate of the United States Coast Guard Academy, Zukunft has commanded six units and served extensively in the cutter fleet where he commanded the cutters Cape Upright, Harriet Lane and Rush. In 2010, Zukunft served as the federal on-scene coordinator for the Deepwater Horizon recovery, where he directed more than 47,000 responders, 6,500 vessels and 120 aircraft during the largest oil spill in U.S. history. A flag officer since 2006, Zukunft most recently served as commander, Pacific Area, and commander, Defense Force West, following on tours as commander, 11th Coast Guard District, and director, Joint Interagency Task Force West.
