Overview
John P. Currier (1953 – March 1, 2020) was a senior officer of the United States Coast Guard who served as the 28th Vice Commandant from May 18, 2012, to May 20, 2014. In that role he held the service's second-highest uniformed position, assisting the Commandant in leading the Coast Guard’s combined civil and military missions and helping to direct policy, operations, and resource management.
Role and responsibilities
The Vice Commandant functions as the Coast Guard’s chief operating officer, charged with day-to-day management of personnel, readiness, acquisition implementation, and interagency coordination. During his tenure Currier supported strategic planning, force employment, and oversight of mission execution across districts and program areas, including maritime safety, security, environmental protection, and search and rescue.
Career and leadership
Currier was a career Coast Guard officer whose decades of service included a mix of operational commands and senior staff assignments. Officers who reach the vice commandant position typically draw on broad experience in afloat and shore units, joint and interagency work, and senior-level management. Currier’s leadership reflected those responsibilities, emphasizing readiness, professional development, and effective stewardship of people and resources.
Legacy and remembrance
Currier completed his term as vice commandant in May 2014 and was succeeded by Vice Admiral Peter Neffenger. He died on March 1, 2020. He is remembered within the Coast Guard community for his long service, commitment to the service’s missions, and role in maintaining institutional continuity during a period of evolving maritime challenges and fiscal constraints.
- Position: 28th Vice Commandant, United States Coast Guard
- Term: May 18, 2012 – May 20, 2014
- Born: 1953; Died: March 1, 2020