U.S.C.G. Tracen

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Branch

U.S. Coast Guard

Members

About U.S.C.G. Tracen

The United States Coast Guard Training Center (TRACEN), most commonly referring to the primary facility in Yorktown, Virginia, serves as a cornerstone for Coast Guard training and education. Established during World War II, TRACEN Yorktown has evolved from a small training detachment into a premier institution offering courses in leadership, engineering, law enforcement, and maritime operations. Thousands of enlisted personnel and officers pass through its gates annually, preparing for assignments across the globe. The center’s enduring mission is to ensure Coast Guard members are ready to uphold maritime safety, security, and stewardship in service to the nation.

Unit Members

Ronald Blewett

U.S. Coast Guard

U.S.C.G. TracenView Profile

Charles Dunn

U.S. Coast Guard

U.S.C.G. TracenView Profile

Photos

USCG Station San Francisco, CA

USCG Station San Francisco, CA • U.S. Coast Guard • 1989

USCGC Point Brower Homeport San Diego CA

USCGC Point Brower (WPB-82372) • U.S. Coast Guard • 1986

USCGC Boutwell (WHEC-719)

USCGC Boutwell (WHEC-719) • U.S. Coast Guard • 1982

USCGC Campbell (WHEC-32)

U.S. Coast Guard • 1975

About U.S.C.G. Tracen

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• What is TRACEN? – The U.S. Coast Guard Training Center (TRACEN) is the primary training facility for enlisted personnel in the United States Coast Guard, located in Cape May, New Jersey. • Birthplace of Coast Guard Enlisted Personnel – All enlisted recruits undergo basic training at TRACEN Cape May, earning it the nickname "The Birthplace of the Coast Guard’s Enlisted Corps." • Historical Roots – The base at Cape May was originally established in 1917 as a naval base during World War I and was transferred to the Coast Guard in 1948. • Training Over 4,000 Recruits Annually – TRACEN Cape May trains over 4,000 recruits each year, making it one of the busiest military training installations in the country for entry-level personnel. • Boot Camp Tradition – The legendary "Company Commanders" are known for their discipline, tough love, and the iconic cadence calls that echo across the base during recruit marches. • Role in World War II – During WWII, Cape May served as a training and deployment center for anti-submarine warfare operations, helping protect the U.S. East Coast. • Historic Chapel – The on-base chapel, built in the 1940s, has hosted countless recruit weddings, memorials, and spiritual services for generations of Coast Guard members. • Unique Mascot – The center’s mascot, "Objee" (short for "Objectionable"), is a stuffed bear used in training and ceremonies, symbolizing the challenges and camaraderie of boot camp. • Open to Public Events – TRACEN Cape May occasionally opens its gates for public tours and graduation ceremonies, offering civilians a glimpse into Coast Guard life. • Gateway to Coast Guard Careers – Graduates of TRACEN Cape May go on to serve in diverse Coast Guard missions, ranging from search and rescue to law enforcement, environmental protection, and homeland security.