The U.S. Coast Guard temporarily relieved the commanding officer of the Coast Guard Cutter Douglas Denman, homeported in Ketchikan, according to a press release.
Rear Adm. Bob Little, commander, Coast Guard Arctic District, temporarily relieved Lt. Edwin Kuster following an investigation leading to a loss of confidence. This temporary relief is not due to misconduct.
Lt. Bryce Matakas has temporarily assumed the position of commanding officer of Coast Guard Cutter Douglas Denman.
A Coast Guard spokeswoman said Tuesday the service received information raising concerns about Kuster’s leadership in operating the cutter safely and effectively and a decision was made by Arctic District Commander Rear Adm. Bob Little to remove him.
“Commanding officers are expected to demonstrate the highest levels of leadership, judgment, professionalism, proficiency, and dedication to the Coast Guard’s core values,” Arctic District Public Affairs Officer Lt. Pam Manns said in an email to Military Times.
