Coast Guard Cutter MCSHAN Commissioned in Cape May

Coast Guard Foundation president Susan Ludwig presented a $5,000 gift to Commanding Officer Lt. Brian Field for the crew to begin its morale and wellness fund.

The cutter is named for Master Chief Angela McShan, who began her active duty career with the Coast Guard in 1979. She was advanced to master chief petty officer in 2000, becoming the first African-American woman to attain that enlisted rank in the United States Coast Guard. McShan received many awards and honors during her 20-year career, including two Coast Guard Commendation Medals, two Coast Guard Achievement Medals, Commandant’s Letter of Commendation, Department of Transportation Outstanding Unit Award, Bicentennial Unit Commendation, six Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendations with “O” device, two Meritorious Team Commendations, Navy “E” Ribbon, Coast Guard Unit Commendation, five Coast Guard Good Conduct Awards, the National Defense Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal and the Coast Guard Sea Service ribbon.

Master Chief McShan is remembered as an inspirational teacher and mentor, an excellent communicator, and standout athlete. She inspired many students to strive for excellence. To honor her high personal and professional standards, the Coast Guard established the Angela M. McShan Inspirational Leadership Award, which is presented annually to an outstanding chief petty officer.

Two months after achieving the rank of master chief petty officer, Angela McShan lost her battle with cancer. Before her passing, McShan had been slated to head-up the Coast Guard’s Yeoman “A” School. She was laid to rest with full military honors in her home town of Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

READ MORE: Master Chief McShan’s service highlighted in the Coast Guard Compass