Coast Guard Cutter Resolute (WMEC 620) and crew returned from a 60-day counterdrug patrol and offloaded approximately $55 million worth of illicit narcotics, Monday, in St. Petersburg.
Patrolling in support of Joint Interagency Task Force – South, the Resolute crew stopped two suspected drug trafficking ventures, preventing 6,565 pounds of marijuana and approximately 3,700 pounds of cocaine from entering the United States, and detained six suspected traffickers.
Supporting the Resolute was an embarked MH-65 Dolphin helicopter and crew from the Coast Guard Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron, and a law enforcement detachment from Tactical Law Enforcement Team – South.
During the patrol, Resolute’s crew met with Panama’s National Aeronaval Service to strengthen the partnership between the United States and Panama, and discuss strategies to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
“The pride and dedication of Resolute’s crew was evident throughout the entirety of our patrol,” said Cmdr. Matthew R. Kolodica, commanding officer of Resolute. “Despite being deployed throughout the holiday season, the crew served with professionalism. The result of their collected effort was an extremely successful patrol which kept $55 million dollars of drugs from reaching its intended destination. Every Resolute sailor and their loved ones should be proud; they are a living example of the Coast Guard’s motto, “Semper Paratus – Always Ready.” It is an honor to lead such a fine ship and crew.”