Port Bureau’s Summer Events Highlight Maritime Community Strength and Collaborative Spirit
This past summer was marked by several remarkable events that brought our maritime community together in celebration, reflection, and fellowship. It was an honor to attend the U.S. Coast Guard District Heartland Change of Command ceremony and represent our port region at such a significant occasion. Admiral Will E. Watson relieved Admiral David C. Barata as the District Commander, and the event underscored the vital role the Coast Guard plays in safeguarding commerce and security along the Gulf Coast. It was a privilege to witness the continuity of leadership that keeps our maritime industry strong and resilient. ADM Watson is very familiar with operations in our port region, as he served as Commanding Officer at Marine Safety Unit Lake Charles, Louisiana, from 2012 to 2015, and as Executive Officer at Marine Safety Unit Texas City, Texas, from 2010 to 2012. We look forward to working with him and his staff to address marine safety issues in our ports and to ensure we remain a top priority for the Coast Guard for funding, personnel and operations.
It is worth notice that the District Heartland got its new name due to its vital role in protecting America’s inland rivers, the Gulf of Mexico, and the ports that fuel the nation’s economy. Covering 26 states, more than 26,000 miles of rivers and waterways, and 1,200 miles of Gulf coastline, the District is central to securing maritime commerce, including the Mississippi River system that carries 60% of U.S. grain exports and much of the country’s bulk cargo. It oversees the safety of offshore oil and gas platforms, petrochemical facilities, and some of the nation’s busiest ports, including Houston, New Orleans, Mobile, Corpus Christi, and Galveston. The District also plays a critical role in search and rescue, hurricane response, disaster recovery, counter-narcotics, and port security, often coordinating with federal, state, and local partners to keep commerce moving and communities safe. In short, they are indispensable to national security, energy independence, and the protection of America’s maritime gateways. I witnessed all this first-hand during my tour there as the Chief of Western Rivers and Waterways from 2021-2023.
Another highlight of the season was the Greater Houston Port Bureau’s 96th Annual Maritime Dinner, where we had the distinct honor of recognizing Roger Guenther, immediate past Executive Director of Port Houston. The evening was a resounding success, well attended, lively, and filled with appreciation for Roger’s outstanding contributions to our port community. The event brought together industry leaders, partners, and friends in celebration of both individual achievement and collective progress. We are truly grateful for the overwhelming support shown to Roger that evening and the recognition reflects not only his outstanding leadership but also the strength and unity of our maritime community.
In addition to these events, our Commerce Club luncheons continue to see strong momentum, with attendance growing steadily month after month. These gatherings provide valuable opportunities to connect, share insights, and strengthen the collaborative spirit that defines our maritime sector. The energy and participation we are seeing reflects the ongoing commitment of our members to build relationships and advance our shared mission. It is a beautiful day when I see people in the hotel lobby networking, sometimes an hour after we conclude the program.
Taken together, these events showcase the strength of our community and the importance of coming together to honor service, celebrate leadership, and foster meaningful dialogue. As we move into the fall, we look forward to carrying this momentum forward and continuing to serve as the voice of Houston’s port region.
Lastly, we are excited to announce that Navy Fleet Week is coming to Houston this fall, bringing ships, sailors, Marines, and Coast Guard members to our region for a week of celebration, community engagement, and education. Fleet Week offers the public a unique opportunity to tour Navy and Coast Guard vessels, meet service members, and learn more about the vital role our sea services play in national defense and maritime security.
As part of the festivities, the Greater Houston Port Bureau will host a special event on November 6 to mark the occasion. This gathering will bring together maritime industry leaders, community partners, and the U.S. Navy for an evening of networking, learning, and celebration of our shared connection to the sea. Stay tuned for more details about the Port Bureau’s November 6 event and other Fleet Week activities across the Houston region. We look forward to welcoming you to this exciting celebration of service, community, and maritime excellence!
About the Author
CAPT Eric Carrero, USCG (Ret.), joined the Greater Houston Port Bureau as president on July 1, 2023. He has 26 years of service in the U.S. Coast Guard, with experience in international affairs, port and vessel operations, and serving in the Sector Houston-Galveston from 2013-2021. CAPT Carrero holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Puerto Rico and a master’s degree in environmental management and policy from the American Public University System.