Kristi Noem Announces Her Selection!

Gov Kristi Noem smiling indoors.

In a key step by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, she has announced her selection of Adm. Kevin Lunday’s nomination as the permanent Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard.

See the tweet below!

Noem’s choice symbolizes a pivotal point in securing America’s maritime future, stepping away from failed leadership that emphasized diversity over defense.

The homeland security secretary announced Adm. Kevin Lunday’s nomination on May 21, 2025, during the Coast Guard Academy’s graduation ceremony in Connecticut.

Lunday stands ready to lead, bringing his 38 years of experience and former vice commandant expertise to the Commandant role following the dismissal of Adm. Linda Fagan.

Fagan was let go due to her inattention to pressing issues like border security while prioritizing diversity programs and mishandling critical matters such as sexual assault cases.

Lunday’s strategic vision for the Coast Guard involves reducing high-ranking flag officer posts by 25% and placing decision-making power back at the frontline—where it is most effective.

His bold reforms also include expanding the Coast Guard personnel by 15,000 over the next four years to ensure robust maritime security, reports The Navy Times.

Adm. Thomas Allan Jr., also announced as the nominee for vice commandant, will join Lunday in this ambitious transformation.

Secretary Noem expressed full confidence in their abilities and declared, “These leaders have the full faith and trust of me, and they have the full faith and trust of the president of the United States. I am certain that they will not let us down.”

Adm. Kevin Lunday’s past involvement in the Indo-Pacific region plays into his capabilities to strengthen international cooperation and enhance operational readiness.

Noem’s confidence in the new leadership aligns with the need to restore focus on national security and practical endeavors within our military institutions.

No timetable is set yet for Lunday’s Senate confirmation vote.

As the Coast Guard stands “on the edge of transformational change,” optimism prevails that Lunday and Allan’s leadership will make the service a more agile force against future challenges.

“On the edge of transformational change, and we will become a stronger, more capable and more agile force to meet the challenges ahead. Together, we will lead that change,” Lunday stated.

As we await Senate confirmation, the steadfast direction taken now may ensure that our Coast Guard stands resilient and prepared for the complexities of defending America’s waters and upholding national security.