U.S. Coast Guard launches initiative to protect crews from brain injuries caused by rough seas

Admiral Kevin Lunday, commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, emailed the entire service announcing a new, service‑wide brain‑health initiative. The program will train small‑boat crews to recognize, report and treat brain injuries that result from repeated wave impacts while operating in harsh surf conditions. The move follows a New York Times investigation that linked thousands of impacts to symptoms such as headaches, memory lapses, anxiety and mood swings, often misdiagnosed as PTSD. The report highlighted the work of high‑school senior Kayleigh Bonner, whose survey of more than 70 surfmen revealed widespread, undiagnosed brain trauma. The Coast Guard pledged “decisive action” to safeguard long‑term health of its personnel.