Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Sydney Phoenix | Lt. Andrew Scheffey is one of two helicopter pilots deployed to USCGC Hamilton (WMSL 753), as seen here in the Atlantic Ocean on May 26, 2021. Scheffey is originally from Houston, Texas, and joined the Coast Guard because he was drawn to the lifesaving mission and fly helicopters. Even though he is permanently stationed at Air Station New Orleans, Louisiana, he volunteered to come aboard Hamilton for their historic mission in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.
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Lt. Andrew Scheffey is one of two helicopter pilots deployed to USCGC Hamilton (WMSL 753).
Scheffey is originally from Houston and joined the U.S. Coast Guard because he was drawn to the lifesaving mission and the ability to fly helicopters. Even though he is permanently stationed at Air Station New Orleans, he volunteered to come aboard Hamilton for their historic mission in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.
“It was important for the U.S. Coast Guard to be present in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea for us to support our NATO partners and demonstrate interoperability with our Allies,” Scheffey said.
He explained that the biggest challenge during this deployment was the quick pace and short timelines between the engagements with the seven different countries Hamilton operated with in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.
He also said he had fun exploring the island of Malta and experiencing the food and culture offered. He believes cutter life is extremely rewarding.
“As a pilot, I am only embarked on the ship for short durations, but during that time, the personal and professional growth that takes place is immense,” Scheffey said. “Therefore, if you are looking for a great opportunity to travel and see parts of the world you never dreamed of and become a stronger person, personally and professionally, then cutter life is a great place to start.”
Scheffey lives with his wife, Kyndall, and two Australian shepherds named Goose and Chama. He has been a pilot for three years and in the Coast Guard for five years.
Coast Guard aviators fly in some of the most challenging weather conditions and are renowned for saving those in peril. Aviators also play a vital role in safeguarding our nation by disrupting drug trafficking, illegal migration, and terrorism.