One branch of the U.S. military is seeing a boost in recruitment and operational effectiveness during President Donald Trump’s second term, according to a recent memo from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
This memo, which was reviewed by Fox News Digital, indicates that the U.S. Coast Guard is experiencing a surge in new recruits, maximizing assets that had largely gone underutilized under the Biden administration.
In fact, the DHS reported that recruitment goals for the Coast Guard have not been met for three consecutive years during Biden’s term. This has resulted in 10 cutters being taken out of commission and nearly 30 Coast Guard stations being temporarily closed.
“Under the Biden administration, the U.S. Coast Guard had their hands tied behind them,” states the memo. It argues that recruitment fell short, leaving the Coast Guard overstretched while cartels engaged in human and drug smuggling.
Recruitment efforts have, however, surged recently, with over 4,700 new members joining in 2025 alone. This rate exceeds the established recruitment goals.
Currently, the Coast Guard highlights that “cutters, aircraft, boats, and special forces have been deployed effectively to major regions surrounding U.S. maritime borders.” This improved focus is allowing them to use their resources to their full potential.
The memo also notes an increase in drug seizures, up 11% compared to the previous year, contributing to a total of 148,000 pounds of cocaine and marijuana confiscated since Trump’s presidency—worth over $1.5 billion. In addition, 870 illegal aliens tied to drug trafficking have been apprehended since January.
Retired Lt. Colonel Daniel Davis, who served over two decades in the Army, shared his views, indicating that recruitment had waned during the Biden era. He believes a sense of distrust towards military leadership and government policies contributed to this decline. However, he feels the atmosphere is changing with Trump in office, citing a restoration of military culture and accountability under Trump’s administration.
Davis pointed out that Trump’s approach is appealing to potential recruits, emphasizing that he aims to refrain from “silly wars,” which he argues helps sustain recruitment growth.
