USCGC Cherokee

• Multiple Vessels Named "Cherokee": The name USCGC Cherokee has been assigned to more than one vessel in U.S. Coast Guard history, most notably to a 190-foot tug (WAT-165/WAT-95/WAT-66) built in 1930 and a 110-foot cutter (WMEC-165) commissioned in 1927. • Originally a U.S. Navy Tug: The most famous USCGC Cherokee (WAT-165) was originally built as a U.S. Navy ocean-going tug (AT-66) in 1927 and transferred to the Coast Guard in 1936. • World War II Service: During World War II, USCGC Cherokee was heavily involved in convoy escort and rescue operations along the U.S. East Coast and in the North Atlantic. • Rescue Missions: The Cherokee participated in numerous dramatic rescue missions, including saving survivors from torpedoed merchant ships during the Battle of the Atlantic. • Involvement in the "Black May": In May 1943, Cherokee was part of the critical convoy protection efforts during “Black May,” when Allied forces turned the tide against German U-boats. • Assisted Damaged Warships: Cherokee frequently towed damaged Allied warships and merchant vessels, sometimes under hazardous conditions, demonstrating seamanship and bravery. • Postwar Service: After WWII, the Cherokee continued to serve as a cutter, performing search and rescue, law enforcement, and icebreaking duties along the U.S. coastline. • Decommissioned in 1964: After nearly four decades of service, USCGC Cherokee was decommissioned in 1964, marking the end of an illustrious career. • Namesake Honors: The name "Cherokee" honors the Native American Cherokee Nation, in keeping with U.S. Navy and Coast Guard traditions of naming vessels after tribes. • Legacy and Model Collectors: The USCGC Cherokee remains a favorite among naval and Coast Guard model collectors, and her story is preserved in several maritime museums and historical records.