USCGC BURTON ISLAND

USCGC Burton Island (WAGB-283) was a Wind-class icebreaker commissioned by the United States Coast Guard in 1946. Originally built for the U.S. Navy during World War II, she was soon transferred to the Coast Guard and became a vital asset in Arctic and Antarctic operations. Burton Island participated in numerous scientific and supply missions, including Operation Highjump and Operation Deep Freeze, supporting polar exploration and research. After decades of service in challenging polar conditions, the cutter was decommissioned in 1978, leaving a legacy as a pioneering icebreaker in U.S. maritime history.