Search and Rescue Leadership: Combat Veteran Turns Coast Guard Aviator

In this compelling episode of The Naval Aviation Ready Room Podcast, host Ryan Keys welcomes Commander Michael Ross, USCG, Executive Officer of Coast Guard Air Station San Diego, to explore a unique career that bridges two distinct military aviation traditions. Beginning as a U.S. Army Black Hawk pilot flying combat missions in Iraq, Ross later transitioned to the Coast Guard through the Direct Commission Aviation program, where he mastered MH-65 Dolphins and MH-60 Jayhawks in some of the most unforgiving environments on earth.

Ross’s experience spans kinetic combat operations, treacherous Alaskan rescues, and today’s complex mission set of border security and maritime law enforcement. He reflects on how leadership translates across cultures and organizations, the nuances of decision-making when lives hang in the balance, and the importance of building cohesive crews prepared for any challenge. His philosophy, rooted in principles such as “Pull the Weeds When Small,” illustrates how proactive leadership, mentorship, and accountability shape both operational success and organizational culture.

For naval historians and practitioners alike, Ross’s story sheds light on the evolution of Coast Guard aviation from revenue enforcement roots to its current status as a frontline multi-mission force. His perspective underscores the value of joint operations with the Navy and Border Protection, demonstrating how aviation capability underwrites maritime security and homeland defense.

What You’ll Learn:

How to transition between military aviation communities while maintaining operational excellence
The critical differences between Army combat operations and Coast Guard rescue missions
Why Coast Guard aviation requires unique decision-making frameworks in high-stakes situations
How to balance mission accomplishment with crew safety in search and rescue operations
The “Pull the Weeds When Small” principle for effective leadership and safety management
How joint operations between Coast Guard, Navy, and Border Protection secure maritime approaches
Why followership is as crucial as leadership in military aviation operations
The fundamentals of running an air station as an Executive Officer while supporting the Commanding Officer’s vision
How to maintain community relationships while executing challenging missions in coastal environments
The evolution of Coast Guard aviation from revenue enforcement to modern multi-mission operations

Commander Michael Ross currently serves as Executive Officer at Coast Guard Air Station San Diego, working in concert with Sector San Diego to safeguard America’s southwest maritime approaches. A decorated aviator with over 4,800 flight hours, Ross began his career in the U.S. Army, flying UH-60 Black Hawks during combat deployments in Iraq. Transitioning into the Coast Guard through the Direct Commission Aviation program, he has since flown both MH-65 Dolphins and MH-60 Jayhawks, conducting demanding search and rescue missions in Alaska and honing expertise in maritime law enforcement.

Ross’s career highlights the adaptability of military aviators and the enduring importance of leadership, discipline, and teamwork across operational contexts. Whether executing high-risk rescues in icy waters, coordinating joint maritime security operations, or mentoring the next generation of aviators, Ross exemplifies the Coast Guard’s role in protecting life, property, and national security at sea.

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Highlights and YouTube Chapters:

[00:00] From Blackhawks to Dolphins: A Coast Guard Aviator's Journey
[03:31] West Point to Army Aviation: Early Career Path
[07:18] Making Critical Decisions: Leadership in High-Stakes Missions
[14:22] Transitioning to Coast Guard: Adapting to New Aircraft and Culture
[21:28] Alaska Adventures: Flying Search & Rescue in the Last Frontier
[26:52] When to Say No: A Pivotal Mission Decision in Kodiak
[34:29] Strategic Impact: Joint Operations and Maritime Security
[39:02] Border Operations: Modern Challenges on the West Coast
[42:52] Leadership Lessons: Pull the Weeds When Small
[47:10] Final Thoughts: The Balance of Leadership and Followership