This is archived information. It may contain outdated contact names, telephone numbers, Web links, or other information. For up-to-date information visit GSA.gov pages by topic or contact our Office of Public Affairs at press@gsa.gov. For a list of public affairs officers by beat, visit the GSA Newsroom.

Coast Guard celebrates 40 years in Carlson building

Graphic with 4 photos: Carlson federal building exterior (top); two people in front of podium looking at a certificate (middle left); two people shaking hands while holding a certificate
The Frank Carlson Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse (top) has been home to the Coast Guard’s Pay and Personnel Center since 1982. The center marked their 40th anniversary with a celebration on August 24. Pictured are Topeka Mayor Michael Padilla and Coast Guard Capt. Derek Smith (middle left), and Smith with U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (middle right).

TOPEKA, Kansas — The U.S. Coast Guard is celebrating 40 years in the Frank Carlson Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse this month.

The federal building has been home to the Coast Guard’s Pay and Personnel Center since it first moved to Topeka in 1982.

“Despite being located as far away from a major body of water as is possible in the United States, the Pay and Personnel Center has been serving all the women and men of the Coast Guard,” Commanding Officer Capt. Derek Smith said. “We celebrate our history of success and look forward to all we will achieve in the decades to come. PPC has become a cornerstone in the support foundation of the Coast Guard.”

The Coast Guard is the building’s largest tenant with more than 200 active duty, reserve, and civilian employees.

“We think this is a substantial win for GSA,” Building Manager Jason Parker said. “We have a great relationship with the Coast Guard team and are proud to support their operations here in Topeka.”

Guided by the principles of people, professionalism, and culture, the Coast Guard’s Pay and Personnel Center has a long history of commitment, determination, and care for all the members of the Coast Guard family. Through a spirit of continuous improvement and vigilance to accuracy, the center is a leader in military payroll throughout the armed services, ensuring each member and their family receives accurate and timely pay.