The Coast Guard cutter Polar Star is in Antarctica for Operation Deep Freeze, a joint service, interagency support operation for the National Science Foundation, which manages the U.S. Antarctic Program.
The military’s support of Antarctic research began in 1955. U.S. Indo-Pacific Command continues to lead the Joint Task Force-Support Forces Antarctica team in providing logistic support for the U.S. Antarctic Program.
The icebreaking cutter plays a key role in the operation, making a channel through thick ice to allow fuel and supply ships to reach McMurdo Station, the U.S. Antarctic Program’s logistics hub and largest station.
The crew practiced ice rescue techniques and observed Adélie penguins as they walked near the cutter in the McMurdo Sound.
Every year, a joint and total force team works together to complete a successful Operation Deep Freeze season. Active, Guard and reserve service members from the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard and Navy participate in the mission.
