Swastika Found at U.S. Coast Guard Training Center in Cape May

Coast Guard Investigative Service looking into incident, Commandant visits base to address recruits and staff.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A swastika was discovered drawn in a bathroom at the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center in Cape May, New Jersey, prompting an investigation by the Coast Guard Investigative Service. Admiral Kevin Lunday, the Coast Guard Commandant, traveled to the base and met with recruits and staff to condemn the hateful symbol and make clear that anyone adhering to or advancing hate or extremist ideology has no place in the Coast Guard.

Why it matters

The discovery of a swastika, a symbol of hate and antisemitism, at a U.S. military training facility raises concerns about the presence of extremist ideologies within the ranks. The Coast Guard's swift response and the Commandant's direct address to personnel underscores the service's commitment to rooting out and rejecting hate.

The details

According to reports, the swastika was found drawn in a bathroom at the Coast Guard Training Center in Cape May, which is the service's fifth-largest base and its enlisted training facility. The matter was referred to the Coast Guard Investigative Service, and the offensive symbol was immediately removed. Admiral Kevin Lunday, the Coast Guard Commandant, traveled to the base and met with recruits and staff to condemn the act, stating that anyone adhering to or advancing hate or extremist ideology has no place in the Coast Guard and must 'get out' and 'leave'.

  • The swastika was discovered on February 19, 2026.
  • Admiral Lunday was informed of the incident on Sunday, February 23, 2026 and traveled to the base.

The players

Admiral Kevin Lunday

The Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard who traveled to the Training Center Cape May to address the incident and make clear the Coast Guard's rejection of hate and extremism.

Captain Amanda Lee

The new commanding officer of the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, installed in June 2025.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Anyone who adheres to or advances hate or extremist ideology — get out. Leave. You don't belong in the United States Coast Guard and we reject you.”

— Admiral Kevin Lunday, Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard (Stars and Stripes)

“We will not be defined by the cowardly acts but instead be defined by our unwavering response and our resolve to defeat them.”

— Admiral Kevin Lunday, Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard (Stars and Stripes)

What’s next

The Coast Guard Investigative Service is continuing its investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances and identify any individuals responsible.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the Coast Guard's commitment to maintaining an inclusive and welcoming environment, free from hate and extremism. The swift and decisive response from the Commandant sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated within the service.