Ediz Hook, a level sand spit extending from the mainland north and east into the Strait of Juan de Fuca, was declared a Federal Lighthouse Reservation by President Lincoln in 1863.

During World War II, the Air Station expanded to include a gunnery school, training aerial gunners and local defense forces.

During a typical year, Group Port Angeles units carried out over 400 search and rescue missions, saving 35 lives and assisting 500 persons.

Its general operational area is the central and eastern parts of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, from Pillar Point to the south of Whidbey Island.

The main roles of the station is search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, waterway security, boating and fishery safety and environmental protection.

The station also works in conjunction with Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound, as well as local, state and federal law enforcement agencies of Jefferson and Clallam counties.