Lieutenant Commander Catherine Carabine '96

LCDR Catherine Carabine graduated from Wheeler High School in 1996. Upon graduation, she attended the United States Coast Guard Academy, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering in 2000. She earned her “Wings of Gold” in 2003 and a Master of Aeronautical Science degree in 2010.

LCDR Carabine is a distinguished aviator who served the United States of America and the Department of Homeland Security with distinction. Throughout her career, she demonstrated exceptional heroism and technical expertise as an MH-65C helicopter pilot. While stationed in Houston, Texas, LCDR Carabine participated in more than 75 search-and-rescue cases, helping to save 136 lives. Among her most significant missions was the rescue of 108 people during the Hurricane Katrina disaster.

While serving with the Helicopter Interdiction Squadron (HITRON) in Jacksonville, Florida, she deployed aboard Coast Guard cutters to conduct Airborne Use of Force operations. She was also part of the first crew to successfully interdict a “go-fast” vessel using an MH-65C helicopter.

A well-rounded officer, LCDR Carabine served as the Supply Officer at Air Station Houston and as the Flight Safety Officer at HITRON, among numerous other collateral duties during more than 12 years of active-duty service. Throughout her career, she received several awards recognizing her service and valor, including the Air Medal, Coast Guard Commendation Medal, and Coast Guard Achievement Medal.

In addition to her service to her country, LCDR Carabine has given back to her local community through volunteer work with the USO and the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

LCDR Catherine Carabine has dedicated herself to serving the United States of America and her community. Her commitment to service