Coast Guard Sector Key West Holds Change of Command Ceremony

Sector Key West comprised of 800 active-duty, reserve and civilian personnel and 1,300 auxiliarists

Capt. Joshua Empen relieved Capt. Jason D. Ingram, as commanding officer of Coast Guard Sector Key West, during a change-of-command ceremony, Friday.

Capt. Willie L. Carmichael, Seventh Coast Guard District chief of staff, presided over the ceremony. Following the ceremony, Ingram retired after 30 years of service.

“Thank you, Sector Key West crew, for an amazing 3 years, and to the wonderful community I served that makes the Florida Keys special,” said Ingram.

Empen reported to Sector Key West from Joint Interagency Task Force West at the United States Indo-Pacific Command, where he was the assistant chief of staff for operations since 2022.

“My family and I are truly looking forward to becoming part of this amazing Key West community,” said Empen.

“I am grateful, humbled, and honored to assume command of Sector Key West, and I look forward to serving alongside the outstanding team of local, state, federal, and military partners.”

Sector Key West is comprised of more than 800 active-duty, reserve, and civilian personnel, as well as over 1,300 auxiliarists.

The sector has three small boat stations, six Fast Response Cutters, one aids to navigation team, and a 24/7 emergency watch center.

The change-of-command ceremony is a time-honored tradition. It represents a total transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from one individual to another.

The event ensures the continuity of leadership and operations within the sector’s area of responsibility.

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