FIRST ON FOX: The U.S.Coast Guard recruited its largest enlisted class in nearly four decades during fiscal year 2026, surpassing its recruiting goals for the third consecutive year as the service works to expand its ranks.According to the Coast Guard, 5,445 active-duty members enlisted in fiscal year 2026, up from 5,204 in 2025 and 4,422 in 2024.The service also commissioned 346 active-duty officers, the second-highest total in its history."These record-breaking recruitment numbers prove that the call to serve still resonates deeply across our country," Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said in a statement.US ARMY HITS 2026 RECRUITING GOALS FOUR MONTHS EARLY, PETE HEGSETH ANNOUNCES AT WEST POINT COMMENCEMENTThe U.S.
Coast Guard enlisted 5,445 active-duty recruits in fiscal year 2026, marking its largest recruiting class in nearly four decades.(U.S.
Coast Guard)"I am incredibly proud to stand beside these new Coast Guard men and women who have stepped up to defend our Homeland," he continued."They represent the very best of who we are, and we are going to make sure they have the tools, the training, and the support to get the job done."During fiscal year 2026, the Coast Guard expanded its recruiting efforts, opening four recruiting offices in Miami, Florida; Long Island, New York; Austin, Texas; and the Netherlands.Coast Guard Vice Commandant Adm.
Tom Allan said the numbers reflect growing interest in serving.COAST GUARD ENDING RACE-BASED ADMISSIONS FOR OFFICER COMMISSIONING PROGRAM UNDER TRUMP DEI CRACKDOWNThe U.S.Coast Guard surpassed its recruiting goals for the third consecutive year in fiscal year 2026.
(U.S.Coast Guard)"We surpassed our recruiting goals because Americans are ready and willing to serve in the U.S.
Coast Guard conducting exciting missions that deliver results our Nation needs," Allan said."This momentum is about more than numbers; it is about being the world’s best Coast Guard and building the workforce America needs," he added...