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Pontchartrain. WPG 70

U.S. Coast Guard•5 members

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About this Unit

Pontchartrain. WPG 70

U.S. Coast Guard

**Pontchartrain (WPG-70)** was a United States Coast Guard cutter commissioned during World War II. Launched in 1944, she served as a convoy escort and performed search and rescue operations in the North Atlantic, protecting vital shipping lanes from German U-boats. After the war, Pontchartrain continued her service in peacetime, notably participating in the rescue of passengers from the sinking SS Andrea Doria in 1956. She remained active into the Cold War era, contributing to maritime safety and national defense until her decommissioning.

About Pontchartrain. WPG 70

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Origin of Name: The USCGC Pontchartrain (WPG-70) was named after Lake Pontchartrain, located in southeastern Louisiana, near New Orleans.
Class and Type: Pontchartrain was a Lake-class cutter, one of several designed for long-range patrol and rescue operations.
Launch and Commissioning: The cutter was launched in 1928 and commissioned into the United States Coast Guard in 1929.
Role During WWII: Pontchartrain served in the North Atlantic during World War II, escorting convoys and performing search and rescue missions.
Rescue of SS Dorchester Survivors: In February 1943, the Pontchartrain was involved in rescuing survivors from the torpedoed transport ship, SS Dorchester, known for the heroic actions of the “Four Chaplains.”
Weather Patrol Duty: After WWII, Pontchartrain was assigned weather patrol duty, collecting meteorological data crucial for transatlantic flights and shipping.
Longest Rescue at Sea: In 1947, Pontchartrain performed one of the longest search and rescue missions in Coast Guard history, saving crew from a downed B-29 bomber.
Technological Upgrades: Over her service, the cutter underwent several upgrades, including advanced radar and communication systems for improved maritime operations.
Decommissioning: Pontchartrain was decommissioned in 1958 after almost 30 years of distinguished service.
Legacy: The exploits and humanitarian missions of Pontchartrain exemplify the Coast Guard’s dual role in national defense and lifesaving, and her crew received numerous commendations for valor and service.

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Pontchartrain. WPG 70

U.S. Coast Guard•5 members

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About this Unit

Pontchartrain. WPG 70

U.S. Coast Guard

Unit members

Terry Rodgers

U.S. Coast Guard · 1970 - 1974

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Bobby Ayers

U.S. Coast Guard · 1972 - 1976

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Allen Foster

U.S. Coast Guard · 1969 - 1972

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George Litte

U.S. Coast Guard · 1956 - 1962

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Coast Guard photos

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About Pontchartrain. WPG 70

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Origin of Name: The USCGC Pontchartrain (WPG-70) was named after Lake Pontchartrain, located in southeastern Louisiana, near New Orleans.
Class and Type: Pontchartrain was a Lake-class cutter, one of several designed for long-range patrol and rescue operations.
Launch and Commissioning: The cutter was launched in 1928 and commissioned into the United States Coast Guard in 1929.
Role During WWII: Pontchartrain served in the North Atlantic during World War II, escorting convoys and performing search and rescue missions.
Rescue of SS Dorchester Survivors: In February 1943, the Pontchartrain was involved in rescuing survivors from the torpedoed transport ship, SS Dorchester, known for the heroic actions of the “Four Chaplains.”
Weather Patrol Duty: After WWII, Pontchartrain was assigned weather patrol duty, collecting meteorological data crucial for transatlantic flights and shipping.
Longest Rescue at Sea: In 1947, Pontchartrain performed one of the longest search and rescue missions in Coast Guard history, saving crew from a downed B-29 bomber.
Technological Upgrades: Over her service, the cutter underwent several upgrades, including advanced radar and communication systems for improved maritime operations.
Decommissioning: Pontchartrain was decommissioned in 1958 after almost 30 years of distinguished service.
Legacy: The exploits and humanitarian missions of Pontchartrain exemplify the Coast Guard’s dual role in national defense and lifesaving, and her crew received numerous commendations for valor and service.