USCGC PT. Harris (WPB-82376)

• Commissioning: USCGC PT. Harris (WPB-82376) was an 82-foot Point class cutter commissioned by the United States Coast Guard in the 1960s, designed for law enforcement and search and rescue missions. • Name: The cutter was originally designated by hull number only, but later named “PT. Harris” in line with USCG policy naming Point class cutters after geographic features. • Vietnam Service: PT. Harris was one of 26 Point class cutters sent to South Vietnam as part of Operation Market Time, supporting interdiction of Viet Cong supply routes by sea. • Combat Action: While in Vietnam, the crew of PT. Harris participated in boarding, searching, and sometimes engaging suspicious vessels, often under dangerous conditions. • Transfer to South Vietnam: In 1970, PT. Harris was transferred to the Republic of Vietnam Navy as part of the Vietnamization of the conflict, where it continued service as RVNS Ngoc Hoi (HQ-706). • Crew Size: The Point class cutters, including PT. Harris, were designed to be operated by a minimal crew of eight, with accommodations for up to 15. • Design Innovation: The cutter featured a 360-degree bridge view, a significant innovation at the time, improving situational awareness during operations. • Legacy: The service of PT. Harris and her sister ships in Vietnam is commemorated by the Coast Guard for their significant role in combat operations—an uncommon mission for the USCG. • Survivability: The cutter's resilient design and shallow draft allowed it to operate close to shore and survive small arms fire, crucial for its role in Vietnam. • Decorations: PT. Harris and her crew received commendations for their service, highlighting the bravery and versatility of Coast Guard personnel in wartime environments.