New Leadership at Apra Harbor: Breen-Tapia Takes Charge of Coast Guard Station

Apra Harbor, Guam - In a significant leadership transition, Senior Chief Petty Officer Kyle Breen-Tapia took command of the U.S. Coast Guard Station Apra Harbor on June 27, 2025. This change was marked by a ceremony officiated by Capt. Jessica Worst, as Breen-Tapia assumes the responsibilities previously held by Senior Chief Petty Officer Jeremy Jarvis who served from May 2022 to June 2025. Jarvis’s tenure was characterized by outstanding achievements, notably leading on-water recovery operations following Super Typhoon Mawar, which enabled the Port of Guam to reopen its doors in an impressive 72 hours.

During Jarvis’s three-year period as officer-in-charge, he oversaw an astounding 127 rescue missions, including the successful retrieval of three scuba divers 30 nautical miles from shore. Beyond search and rescue operations, he played a crucial role in escorting Ohio-class Navy submarines and innovating a robust fitness program for Coast Guard personnel. Jarvis’s retirement will see him settle in Guam, where he aims to continue serving the community he has come to know so well.

Legacy of Recovery and Resilience

The impact made by the Coast Guard during Guam’s recovery from Typhoon Mawar cannot be understated. In fact, a report from Forbes highlights how the Coast Guard’s proactive measures and investments paid off during the recovery. They were instrumental in swiftly restoring normal operations at Guam’s port, aided by deployments of new Fast Response Cutters and support from the Cmdr. Carlton S. Skinner Building, which sheltered crucial equipment.

Jarvis’s success can be attributed to a dedicated team. Alongside his efforts, the Coast Guard coordinated 19 missions, completing 33 sorties, and transporting over 396,000 pounds of cargo and 169 passengers. This comprehensive effort illustrates the vital role the Coast Guard plays not only in maritime safety but also in protecting the local economy and environment during crises.

Transitioning Command

Breen-Tapia brings his experience to this new role, having enlisted in 2011 and contributing significantly in various positions, including command of Station Indian River Inlet. He has been recognized with two Coast Guard Commendation Medals and is a proud father with a family to support. This change in leadership promises new ideas and strategies, as Breen-Tapia steps into a challenging yet important job at a location crucial for maritime safety in the Pacific region.

As maritime incidents can range from wrecks to oil spills, the Coast Guard’s role in managing these emergencies is indispensable. According to Total Military Insight, effective management of such incidents is vital for safeguarding not only public safety but also environmental integrity. The training and technology utilized by the Coast Guard ensure they are well-equipped to respond swiftly and efficiently to any maritime distress.

In the face of challenges like navigational errors and extreme weather, the Coast Guard’s comprehensive response involves collaboration with other agencies to ensure successful outcomes. With ongoing demands for improved facilities and support, such as a proposed $200 million funding request aimed at enhancing operations in the Pacific, the future of the Coast Guard depends on continued community and governmental backing.

As Breen-Tapia takes the helm at Station Apra Harbor, the commitment to excellence in service and safety remains a top priority, securing a brighter and safer maritime environment for all who traverse the Pacific waters.