There are guardians of San Diego who live at the lighthouse base in Point Loma, the tip of the peninsula surrounded by the Pacific Ocean.

Only people from the Coast Guard and their guests can go into the lighthouse, and three families reside at the base. But local Realtor and photographer Chris Mannerino had the chance to ride in a Coast Guard helicopter on Dec. 13. “The attraction to the lighthouse is the location. It has a 270-degree view of the ocean down to Mexico. The fact that there is very limited access means that it is quiet and peaceful,” said Mannerino.

James W. Spitler, the Coast Guard sector commander and captain of the Port of San Diego, shared his life story at the lighthouse base.

“My responsibility here to my crew is to make sure that we can achieve the job and take care of each other. My responsibility to the people of San Diego is to make sure I can protect the port and keep everybody safe,” said Spitler.

In his position, Spitler focuses on two key elements: the people and the mission. He strives to maintain the connections with the people in San Diego, as well as with his crew.

“I’m a big proponent that we typically have a better answer if everybody’s involved providing input,” he emphasized. He tries to facilitate open communication by having a conversation with his boss or partners whenever he faces challenges or needs feedback.

The Coast Guard has 11 statutory missions to ensure the nation’s maritime safety, security, and stewardship. However, it considers life-saving services as a fundamental mission as part of its role as a humanitarian organization.

“Everything we do is about preventing mishaps, protecting the environment, and saving lives,” said Spitler.

Living at the lighthouse base has been a remarkable opportunity for Spitler. Of the three homes at the base, he lives in the one situated highest up on the cliff, built in 1913. His senior leaders reside in the other two houses, making a total of eight people, including their families, who live at the base.

“When the Coast Guard started living here, only the great leaders that have gone before us have had the opportunity to live here. It’s been a phenomenal experience,” said Spitler.

In 2019, Spitler attained the rank of captain. He is a third-generation Coast Guard officer following in his grandfather’s footsteps and has been a traveler across the nation during his career.

“I have moved 12 times in 26 years,” he said. Since graduating from the Coast Guard Academy in 1997, Spitler has worked in many different states, including Alabama, Alaska, Florida, and Texas.

Throughout his journey, Spitler has been charged in various positions. His first tour was on a ship, and he received training at the Navy Flight School. He earned a master’s degree in aeronautical engineering and attended the Naval War College. He also worked at the DOD for two years before joining the lighthouse base.

The Coast Guard officer has significant responsibilities compared to his previous roles. “The level of impact and the scope of responsibility are different,” he remarked.

After a few years of signing up, each member is placed in significant roles such as commanding officer of a ship, aircraft, helicopter, etc.

In the summer of 2025, Spitler will have three options for his future, as the Coast Guard only allows 30 years at his rank. After that, he could be selected for admiral to continue in the Coast Guard, embark on his next career, or retire. He is preparing for the transitional phase of his life.

Spitler describes his life in the Coast Guard in two words: “memorable” and “honorable.”

“It just feels right. There are no regrets. I’m very happy with the choice and the path of life that I’ve led.”