Coast Guard Training at the FLETC

The U.S. Coast Guard trains at the FLETC.

The Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC), in Charleston, South Carolina is home to the U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Law Enforcement Academy. Here, Coast Guard members receive valuable training to prepare them as federal law enforcement officers. The U.S. Coast Guard website states, "As a key member of the Department of Homeland Security, the Coast Guard has been designated as the lead federal agency for maritime law enforcement. The Coast Guard is on the front lines of the nation's layered homeland security strategy and is instrumental in securing our nation's maritime domain."

Marine Patrol Officer Course

During the Maritime Patrol Officers Course, students gain an understanding of how to conduct operations by exposure and tactical training. They also learn regulations and policies, and complete the 24-hour DUI Standardized Field Sobriety Test.

Boarding Team Member Course

The Boarding Team Member Course trains members to work as part of the boarding team under the supervision of the Boarding Officer. The course covers studies on the use of force and boarding procedures. An important part of a U.S. Coast Guard member's job is boarding and searching water vessels for illegal immigrants, drugs and other things that may compromise the safety of the country and its waterways.

Basic Boarding Officer Course

The Basic Boarding Officer course teaches potential Boarding Officers the duties connected to enforcing the laws and applicable treaties at sea. Upon completion of the course, graduates will have the needed skills and information to lead a boarding team.

Boarding Officer Qualification Support Program

The Boarding Officer Qualification Support Program offers U.S. Coast Guard personnel further instruction on the ins and outs of proper maritime boarding procedures and shore-side operations. The training covers legal concepts through self-paced learning and practical experience.

Radiation Detection Level II Operators Course

The Radiation Detection Level II Operators Course instructs personnel in the ways to detect radiation aboard vessels and ashore. The program provides information on radiological science and "hands-on" training. Teamwork, effectiveness and safety play a large role in the exercises conducted.

References

• Homeland Security: U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Law Enforcement Academy Charleston Training Programs
• United States Coast Guard: Maritime Law Enforcement Academy