Coast Guard summit sparks call for cultural change

In a recent government meeting, a victim advocate shared a powerful testimony regarding the need for cultural change within the Coast Guard. The advocate, who was invited to speak at a summit, recounted their experience with the Coast Guard's Accountability and Transparency Review (ATR) team, emphasizing that the issues at hand extend beyond the academy and reflect a broader workforce problem.

During their address, the advocate highlighted the importance of true accountability within the organization, calling for significant reforms to address the systemic issues they faced. Their passionate speech resonated with the audience, resulting in a standing ovation. However, despite the overwhelming support, the advocate noted that only a few officials, including Admiral Hagan and Mick Pogg, engaged with them afterward, raising concerns about the follow-through on promises for change.

The advocate also mentioned being approached by the head of the Coast Guard's investigative unit, who offered to reopen their case, indicating a potential shift towards addressing past grievances more seriously. This meeting underscores the ongoing dialogue about accountability and cultural reform within the Coast Guard, as officials grapple with the implications of these discussions for the future of the organization.