US Coast Guard Cutter Mustang Decommissioned After 40 Years Of Service

After serving the nation for almost 40 years, the US Coast Guard Cutter Mustang (WPB 1310) has been officially decommissioned.

The ceremony took place on April 15 in Seward, Alaska with Captain Christopher Culpepper, commander of Coast Guard Sector Western Alaska & US Arctic, presiding over the event.

Cutter Mustang was commissioned on August 29, 1986, and became the 10th vessel in the Island-class cutter fleet.

Since it began service, Mustang has been based in Seward and has played an important role in Coast Guard missions.

Over the years, Mustang’s crews have responded to more than 200 search and rescue operations and carried out over 2,000 law enforcement missions.

The 110 foot Island-Class patrol boat was known for its versatility, conducting missions in search and rescue, marine environmental protection, and national defense.

As part of the Coast Guard’s ongoing modernisation efforts, the aging Island-Class cutters are being replaced by Sentinel-Class Fast Response Cutters (FRCs), which offer upgraded capabilities to meet evolving mission needs.

Currently, four FRCs are homeported in Alaska, and two more vessels are expected to arrive soon.

The cutter’s final commanding officer, Lieutenant Gabrielle Troise, expressed pride by stating that the decommissioning of Mustang is a bittersweet moment adding that it’s been her honour to be a member of the final crew and that she is incredibly proud of the legacy they will leave behind within the community of Seward where Mustang has faithfully served since her commissioning.

Reference: USCG

Source: Maritime Shipping News