Juneau, Alaska – Chugach Government Solutions (CGS) proudly joined the United States Coast Guard and distinguished guests in celebrating the commissioning of the USCGC STORIS in Juneau this past weekend. Activities honored the vessel’s legacy and marked a new chapter in the Coast Guard’s mission to protect America’s shores and maritime interests.

CGS representatives—including retired USCG Captain (0-6) and Technical Services Division Sr. Subject Matter Expert John Driscoll, Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Legal Officer Virginia Robinson, Chugach Government Relations Director Brian Knapp, and Sr. Director of Strategic Communications Elizabeth Nerland—were honored to take part in the celebrations, which culminated in the official commissioning on Sunday, August 11.

Honoring the Crew and the Mission

Our team’s engagement began Friday morning, August 8, when Driscoll and Robinson joined the crew for a tour of the STORIS, engaging with crew members and the contracting officer’s representative. “It was incredibly impressive to see firsthand the many capabilities of the STORIS,” shared Robinson of the tour. “She’s clearly ready for the Arctic – clearing waterways, protecting our shores, refueling at sea, aiding in search and rescue, and pushing into waters few ships can reach.”

Friday evening festivities continued with a reception at the Juneau Yacht Club hosted by the Navy League – Juneau Council for the STORIS crew. Driscoll offered brief remarks highlighting the coordinated efforts to bring the STORIS into service and the vessel’s importance to the Coast Guard’s operational readiness.

“The STORIS represents a unique opportunity for the Coast Guard,” shared Driscoll at the event. “I’m looking forward to seeing what the STORIS can become, and Chugach is excited to help shape that future—just as we’ve done for decades with vessels across the fleet.”

Commissioning Day

On Sunday, August 11, CGS leadership joined dignitaries, servicemen and women, and community members for the official commissioning ceremony. Admiral Kevin Lunday, Acting Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, was commended for his leadership in strengthening the service—including achieving a milestone of 15,000 recruits currently in the pipeline to support its homeland security mission.

Keynote speakers included Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security Troy Edgar, U.S. Representative Nicholas Begich, U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan, U.S. Representative Mike Ezell, and U.S. Representative Jimmy Patronis, all of whom expressed steadfast support for the Coast Guard. Their shared message resonated throughout the event: “A stronger America starts with a stronger fleet—and that starts in Alaska with the STORIS.”

A Partnership Spanning Three Decades

For over 30 years, Chugach Government Solutions has partnered with the U.S. Coast Guard, providing essential technical expertise through both direct contracts and work with the Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic. CGS plays an important role in installing shipboard sensors, communications and computer systems, and combat management systems across the fleet. Not a single National Security Cutter, including the STORIS, gets underway without a Chugach expert on board to assist the crews with getting their Combat Information Centers up and running, preparing them for operations, and troubleshooting issues that arise early in deployments.

Robinson added, “Chugach’s roots with the Coast Guard run deep. Being part of the STORIS commissioning is both an honor and a continuation of our long-standing commitment to supporting their mission. As the Coast Guard looks to the future, we’re proud to contribute our expertise to strengthen the fleet and protect the homeland.”

Looking Ahead

As the Coast Guard undertakes the largest recapitalization effort in its history, Chugach Government Solutions remains committed to delivering the systems, expertise, and operational support needed for mission success. The commissioning of the STORIS stands as both a tribute to the Coast Guard’s enduring legacy and a promise of the bright future ahead—one in which CGS is proud to play a vital role.