CDR Steven D. Welch
Commander Steven Welch is a career Cutterman and maintains dual career paths in Afloat Operations and Intelligence. He assumed Command of USCGC Vigilant (WMEC 617) in June of 2025. Prior to Vigilant, he most recently served as the Military Deputy Director for Intelligence and Security, Joint Interagency Task Force South (JIATFS) in Key West, Florida. JIATFS is charged with the detection and monitoring of illicit narcotics movements in the air and maritime domains to enable interdictions throughout a 42 million square mile Joint Operating Area. During his time, JIATFS enabled the disruption of over 925 metric tons of cocaine, valued at over $23 billion.
Commander Welch’s most recent afloat assignment was Executive Officer of CGC Venturous (WMEC 625), homeported in St. Petersburg, FL. Prior sea tours include Operations Officer of CGC Spencer (WMEC 905) in Boston, MA, Commanding Officer of CGC Tiger Shark (WPB 87359) in Newport, RI, Executive Officer of CGC Maui (WPB 1304) in the Kingdom of Bahrain and in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM, and First Lieutenant of CGC Thetis (WMEC 905) in Key West, FL.
Prior intelligence tours include the National Security Agency (NSA) Director’s Fellowship, where he gained valuable insight into the mission, leadership, and management of both NSA and US CYBER COMMAND. Additionally, he served as the Senior Coast Guard Representative to the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) in McLean, VA, supporting the NCTC Director in foreign and domestic intelligence liaison activities. He started his intelligence career as Operations Officer of Coast Guard Cryptologic Unit Texas, overseeing all deployable cryptologists supporting National Security Cutters and other cryptologic-capable platforms.
Commander Welch is a graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and the National Intelligence University. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Management and a Master of Science degree in Strategic Intelligence, respectively. His personal awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Coast Guard Commendation Medal with Operational Distinguishing Device (five awards), Coast Guard Achievement Medal with Operational Distinguishing Device, Commandant’s Letter of Commendation with Operational Distinguishing Device (three awards), Iraq Campaign Medal, and various other National Intelligence and Coast Guard unit and team awards. Additionally, he holds the distinct honor of designation as an Honorary Chief Petty Officer.