USCGC HEALY (WAGB-20)

Welcome Aboard!


Welcome aboard and congratulations on your assignment to the nation's premier high latitude research vessel. As a member of the Healy team, you will be an integral part of a highly experienced and committed crew helping provide presence and access throughout the Arctic for all of the Coast Guard’s missions and particularly for groundbreaking research. We look forward to welcoming you onboard!

Your primary point of contact will be your sponsor, who was assigned in your welcome aboard message. They will provide you with most of the information you require and will assist you in your PCS transition. In the column to the left, you can read about our previous missions, find contact information for USCGC Healy, and learn the ship’s command, characteristics, and history!


Mission Capability

HEALY is designed to conduct a wide range of research activities, providing more than 4,200 square feet of scientific laboratory space, numerous electronic sensor systems, oceanographic winches, and accommodations for up to 35 scientists. HEALY is designed to break 4 ½ feet of ice continuously at three knots and can operate in temperatures as low as -50 degrees F. The science community provided invaluable input on lab lay-outs and science capabilities during design and construction of the ship. At a time when scientific interest in the Arctic Ocean basin is intensifying, HEALY substantially enhances the United States Arctic research capability.


Common Destinations on Deployment

Each summer from June to October, HEALY travels north to the Arctic to support the National Science Foundation in conducting scientific research. USCGC HEALY has frequented international ports throughout the pacific but mostly visits ports throughout the pacific northwest, including:

Alaska: Dutch Harbor, Juneau, Kodiak, Ketchikan, Nome, and Juneau.
British Columbia: Victoria, Esquimalt, and Prince Rupert.


Command Philosophy

The Arctic Experience. Healy crew members are elite Cuttermen. Our job is important to the world’s understanding of a changing global commons, and our evolutions are unique and rewarding. We live the stories that others only read about, and many times are privileged with operating in environments that few ever will. Take time to savor the sunsets, wildlife, port calls, and to enjoy the wonders of the Arctic. Healy’s routine operations will demand calculated risk-taking; however, we must remember that some evolutions can wait for less ice coverage, daylight, better weather, or another day. 


Community

The women and men of Healy, and those important in our personal lives, are its most precious resource. The sailing list will always be comprised of people from many backgrounds, experiences, nationalities, etc. We must keep an eye on each other’s physical and mental well-being as we work in the arduous high latitude environment, often spending many months away from homeport. If you see someone standing in shoal water, take the initiative to assist. If you are having a difficult time with work or events in your personal life, know that there is an abundance of resources to help you. 


Proficiency

Healy is a proud and distinguished unit with many capabilities and opportunities. Do not settle on just being just qualified in the minimum duties you are assigned or accept something because “that is how it has always been done.” Seek ways to improve. Each job is important in the overall success of Healy and the Coast Guard. Provide those working for you with the same professional and personal development opportunities you would want to be afforded. 


Communication

Each piece of correspondence, whether e-mail, conversation, social media posting, tasking direction, or letter, represents Healy. Every person with whom we interact, from crew members to Area/District/Base Staff to scientists to civilians ashore, deserve the highest respect in our interactions with them. Additionally, clear and deliberate communications, whether verbal, non-verbal or written, ensure that everyone is on the same page. Our communication and correspondence reflect our respect for each other, our professionalism, and our commitment to our core values. 


Cell Phones in Alaska

GSM (Global System for Mobiles) phones tend to work better than CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) phones in Alaska. Common GSM providers are T-Mobile and AT&T. Common CDMA providers are Sprint, Verizon, and U.S. Cellular. For those who desire more reliable cell phone access during Alaskan port calls, it is recommended to consider changing cell phone providers to those listed above.


Ratings Present at Unit

MK, EM, DC, ET, IT, HS, OS, YN, BM, MST, SK, CS.


Typical SN/SA Job Assignment

Primary responsibilities of deck non-rates will be standing watch as Lookout and Helmsman, Winch Operator, A-Frame Operator, Rigger, and may include Helicopter tie-down, Cutter Rescue Swimmer, Ice Rescue, and Quartermaster of the Watch. You will also participate in science operations and with over the side deployment of water sampling equipment.


Typical FN/FA Job Assignment

Primary responsibilities of engineering non rates will be standing watch as Technician of the Watch, performing maintenance and repair of mechanical systems. Upon reporting, FN/FA will be assigned to work for either the Main Propulsion (Main Prop) or Auxiliary Systems (A-Gang) divisions.


Helpful Links


Questions

For any questions regarding the reporting in process, please contact YNC Martha Viloria or (206) 217-6300.