uscgc Cape Carter

• Commissioning and Class: USCGC Cape Carter (WPB-95312) was a 95-foot Cape-class patrol boat, commissioned by the United States Coast Guard in 1959. • Primary Missions: Cape Carter’s main missions included search and rescue (SAR), law enforcement, and maritime patrol duties along the U.S. coastlines. • Homeports: The vessel was stationed at various times in Norfolk, Virginia, and Brunswick, Georgia, during her active service. • Cuban Refugee Crisis: During the 1960s, Cape Carter played a vital role in the Cuban refugee operations, rescuing and transporting Cuban migrants attempting to reach the United States. • Vietnam War Service: Although many Cape-class cutters served in Vietnam under Operation Market Time, Cape Carter remained stateside but supported related training and logistics. • Drug Interdiction: In the 1970s and 1980s, the cutter was involved in anti-smuggling operations, interdicting vessels carrying illegal drugs into the United States. • Rescue Operations: Cape Carter participated in numerous dramatic rescues of fishermen and pleasure craft in distress off the Atlantic coast. • Decommissioning: USCGC Cape Carter was decommissioned in 1989 after 30 years of service, as part of the Coast Guard’s modernization efforts. • Post-Service Fate: After decommissioning, Cape Carter was transferred to the National Navy of Uruguay, where she continued patrol duties under a new name. • Legacy: The Cape-class cutters, including Cape Carter, are remembered for their rugged design and versatility, serving as workhorses of the Coast Guard during the Cold War era.