St. Bernard Port a part of Maritime Security Award

Chalmette – The St. Bernard Port, Harbor, and Terminal District is included in the 2023 Area Maritime Security Committee (AMSC) of the Year Award. The award comes from the United States Coast Guard award selection panel, which reviewed 43 AMSC annual reports, with Port of New York/ New Jersey, San Diego AMSC, and South Texas AMSC being among the finalists.

The U.S. Coast Guard Bulletin posted the following message about the New Orleans AMSC was chosen for this award: “The award selection panel identified the New Orleans AMSC for its exceptional achievements and contributions in safeguarding the Marine Transportation System, including port areas, adjacent waterways, coastal/shoreside areas, waterfront facilities, and other critical infrastructure.” This award shows that the St. Bernard Port security department is doing exceptionally well in keeping commerce trade and shipping safe in the heart of St. Bernard Parish.

Eric Acosta, the port’s Facility Security Officer (F.S.O.), replied that this award is an effect of teamwork: “It is with team effort and camaraderie that our diversified group can successfully protect and enhance security and operations in the maritime environment.  Through communications, drills, exercises, assessments and training, we can develop suitable plans, procedures and strategies with the USCG and our government.  We have proven that we can keep the Captain of the Port, government and industry partners updated and advised of any and all situations as they arise and determine their consequences or benefits.” Acosta also serves as the Vice-Chair of the USCG Area Maritime Security Committee Sector New Orleans.

In choosing finalists and reviewing the winner, the selection panel was comprised of representatives from the following headquarters and Area units: Office of Port and Facility Compliance (CG-FAC, Chair), Office of Domestic Port Security Evaluation Division (PSA-2), Coast Guard Atlantic Area (LANTAREA-LANT-535), and Coast Guard Pacific Area and Defense Forces West (PACAREA-PAC-575).

St. Bernard Port’s Executive Director Drew Heaphy is proud of the work the Security department has performed to be included in the award. “We are proud of our Security department, as we know they work daily to keep the port and our tenants safe.”

St. Bernard Port Facility Security Officer (black shirt) Eric Acosta poses with the 2023 AMSC of the Year Award. Acosta also serves as vice-chair of the USCG Area Maritime Security Committee Sector New Orleans.