The U.S. Coast Guard temporarily relieved the commander and command senior enlisted leader of Coast Guard Sector San Diego last Friday.
Rear Adm. Joseph Buzzella, commander, District Eleven, temporarily relieved Capt. James Spitler and Master Chief Petty Officer Michael Dioquino following an investigation leading to a loss of confidence in both unit leaders.
“The Coast Guard cannot accomplish our missions without the respect and trust of each member,” said Rear Adm. Buzzella. “A safe and professional environment for each member is crucial to the success of our service and we will not tolerate behavior that goes against our core values of honor, respect and devotion to duty.”
The Coast Guard is committed to a Service culture that ensures every member has a safe and supportive workplace, where they are free from harm and feel respected and empowered.
Sector San Diego remains fully operational in all mission areas and there is no impact to public safety.
Capt. Patrick Dill, chief of incident management (drm) for District Eleven has temporarily assumed the position of commander, Sector San Diego.
The removals in this case resulted from alleged unfair treatment of individuals under their command and an inquiry into that treatment, the Times of San Diego reports.
The Coast Guard described the firings as temporary, but did not elaborate on when they might be reinstated to lead.
Note: Updated on November 2, 2024.