USCGC Madrona (WLB-302)

• Commissioned in World War II: USCGC Madrona (WLB-302) was commissioned in 1943 during the height of World War II as a 180-foot Cactus-class buoy tender. • Name Significance: The cutter was named after the madrona tree, a species native to the western United States, following the tradition of naming buoy tenders after trees and plants. • Primary Mission: Madrona’s main job was maintaining aids to navigation (ATON) such as buoys and lighthouses, which are vital for safe maritime travel. • Homeports: Over her long career, Madrona was stationed at several locations, including Portsmouth, Virginia, and Wilmington, North Carolina. • Hurricane Rescue Operations: Madrona participated in numerous search and rescue missions, most notably during severe hurricanes along the U.S. East Coast. • Icebreaking Duties: The vessel was equipped for light icebreaking and often cleared ice from navigation channels in winter, ensuring continued shipping and supply routes. • Vietnam War Service: During the Vietnam War, Madrona was deployed to support Operation Market Time, which involved coastal patrols and interdiction. • Long Service Life: Madrona served for over 54 years, making her one of the longest-serving cutters of her class before being decommissioned in 1999. • Community Engagement: The ship frequently participated in public events and open houses, fostering relations between the Coast Guard and local communities. • Final Fate: After decommissioning, Madrona was transferred to the Dominican Republic, where she continued her service under a new flag as Almirante Didiez Burgos (BE-301).