Support Spotlight: Coast Guard Cutter Hamilton
The Coast Guard Cutter Hamilton, named in honor of the Coast Guard's founding father Alexander Hamilton, has a proud legacy of service.
In Federalist Paper #12, Hamilton wrote about a fleet of federal vessels that he believed the newly created United States could deploy to enforce tariffs and stop smuggling. The smash Broadway hit even references Hamilton as the "protean creator of the Coast Guard."
The current Hamilton (WMSL 753), is a 418-foot national security cutter and was commissioned into service in 2013. The ship is homeported in North Charleston, South Carolina is the fourth Legend-class cutter and the sixth Coast Guard cutter named in honor of Alexander Hamilton.
According to the Coast Guard, the national security cutter is the most technologically advanced ship in the Coast Guard’s fleet. NSCs are equipped with three small boats and a stern boat launch system, dual aviation facilities, and serve as an afloat command and control platform for law enforcement and national security missions.
The Coast Guard Foundation’s support for health and wellness plays an essential role in the Hamilton crew’s ability to maintain their own physical and mental well-being while at sea. Two recent initiatives - one for a full complement of inflatable kayaks, stand up paddleboards, and outdoor recreation gear- provided exercise opportunities for crew members while away from home. Once the pandemic hit and port calls were limited, additional support for the cutter provided improvements to workout spaces and the crew lounge.
In early April, the Hamilton returned to South Carolina after completing an 80-day patrol through the Eastern Pacific Ocean. During its deployment, the crew seized three drug-laden vessels and apprehended eight suspected traffickers. The crew also assisted in removing another seven tons of cocaine and 1,400 pounds of marijuana seized by Coast Guard Cutters Legare, Vigilant, Tampa, Tahoma, Steadfast, Mohawk, Navy vessel USS Tornado, and the Canadian vessel HMCS Nanaimo.
“Time at sea takes its toll on the crew, especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic,” shared Captain Timothy Cronin, Commanding Officer. “Your loyalty and support empower Coast Guard men and women to remain Semper Paratus.”
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With thanks and appreciation to First Command Financial Services, North Charleston and Palmetto Military Support Group - two local businesses that support Coast Guard Foundation health and wellness initiatives in Coast Guard communities.
