USCGC Morris

• Namesake: The USCGC Morris (WSC-147) was named after Robert Morris, a Founding Father and financier of the American Revolution. • Class and Role: Morris was a part of the Active-class patrol boats, often called "Buck & a Quarter" cutters due to their 125-foot length. • Launch and Commission: She was launched in 1927 and commissioned by the United States Coast Guard in the same year. • Prohibition Patrols: During the Prohibition era, Morris was tasked with intercepting rumrunners and enforcing anti-liquor laws off the US coastline. • World War II Service: Morris served on convoy escort duty and anti-submarine patrols during World War II, protecting merchant ships from German U-boats. • Notable Rescue: In 1933, Morris participated in the dramatic rescue of survivors from the wrecked SS Morro Castle, a burning passenger liner off the New Jersey coast. • Reclassification: In 1941, Morris was reclassified from WPC (Patrol Craft) to WSC (Submarine Chaser) to reflect her new wartime role. • Longevity: The vessel served for over 40 years, making her one of the longest-serving cutters in her class before being decommissioned in 1971. • Post-Service Fate: After decommissioning, the Morris was sold and later repurposed as a museum ship for a time, allowing the public to learn about her storied career. • Legacy: The USCGC Morris is remembered for her versatility, serving in law enforcement, search and rescue, and military operations, reflecting the broad mission of the Coast Guard itself.