USCGC Evergreen (WLB-295)

• Unique Service: USCGC Evergreen (WLB-295) was a 180-foot seagoing buoy tender, one of the original Cactus-class (or Iris-class) cutters built for the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. • Commissioned in 1943: Evergreen was commissioned on 24 November 1943, serving throughout World War II and for decades afterwards. • Multi-Mission Platform: Originally designed for aids to navigation, her missions expanded to include search and rescue, law enforcement, icebreaking, and environmental protection. • First Oceanographic Ship: In 1948, Evergreen became the Coast Guard’s first dedicated oceanographic vessel, conducting scientific research in the North Atlantic. • Greenland Patrol: During WWII, the vessel operated as part of the Greenland Patrol, supporting efforts to monitor German activity and maintain navigation aids in hazardous Arctic conditions. • Icebreaking Operations: The cutter was heavily involved in icebreaking, especially in New England waters, helping clear paths for shipping and ensuring navigational safety. • Service in the International Ice Patrol: Evergreen actively participated in the International Ice Patrol, monitoring and reporting iceberg locations to prevent disasters like the Titanic sinking. • Vietnam War Support: In the late 1960s, Evergreen was deployed to Vietnam, where she played a role in “Operation Market Time,” interdicting enemy supply routes by sea. • Notable Rescue Missions: Over her long career, the cutter was credited with numerous dramatic rescues, including saving crew from sinking vessels and downed aircraft in the often-treacherous North Atlantic. • Decommissioned After 52 Years: After a distinguished service life spanning more than five decades, USCGC Evergreen was decommissioned on 26 June 1990, making her one of the longest-serving vessels of her class.