We sit down with BMCM Kraig McCellan and BMCM Thomas Hines, OICs of the Coast Guard construction tenders Cheyenne and Gasconade, based in St. Louis. Their stories bring to life the critical but often unsung role these river-borne platforms play in sustaining our nation’s infrastructure and economy.

Inland waterways carry hundreds of millions of tons of cargo annually, alleviating congestion on highways and reinforcing supply chain resilience. Maintaining safety and reliability on these waterways depends on a vast network of aids to navigation (ATON). That’s where Cheyenne and Gasconade come in.

In our conversation, The Master Chiefs walk us through life aboard their tenders: the technical capabilities and crew structure that allow them to repair, relocate, and maintain fixed and floating aids. They reflect on challenges and how they coordinate with multiple Coast Guard units, the Corps of Engineers, and shipping stakeholders. 

At the heart of the episode lies leadership at the helm: how to guide a small, self-reliant crew through extended deployments, and the career arc and mindset needed to pursue command. The MCs share personal reflections, mentorship lessons, and advice for those preparing for OIC boards. This episode honors not only the technical mission but the human side of guiding America’s waterways.

This is an Unofficial Podcast. All views expressed are solely those of the hosts/guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard.

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