About this Unit
USCGC Courageous (WMEC-622) is a United States Coast Guard medium endurance cutter commissioned in 1968. Built as part of the Reliance-class, Courageous initially operated out of San Juan, Puerto Rico, and later Key West, Florida, conducting law enforcement, search and rescue, and counter-narcotics missions. Over its decades of service, the cutter participated in numerous high-profile drug interdictions throughout the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. Courageous was decommissioned in 2001 and later transferred to the Sri Lanka Navy, where it continues to serve as SLNS Samudura.
Historical Facts
• Commissioned in 1968: USCGC Courageous (WMEC-622) was commissioned into the United States Coast Guard on April 19, 1968, as part of the Reliance-class medium endurance cutter program.
• Homeport: Throughout her service, Courageous was homeported at various locations, including San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Panama City, Florida, reflecting her diverse mission assignments in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico.
• Drug Interdiction Operations: She played an important role in the Coast Guard's war on drugs, intercepting numerous vessels smuggling narcotics into the United States, and seizing tons of illegal substances during her service.
• Mariel Boatlift Rescue: In 1980, Courageous participated in the Mariel Boatlift, helping rescue thousands of Cuban refugees fleeing to Florida, demonstrating the humanitarian side of Coast Guard missions.
• Search and Rescue Missions: The cutter was involved in countless life-saving missions, including rescuing stranded mariners, assisting vessels in distress, and responding to natural disasters in the Caribbean and Gulf regions.
• Multi-Mission Capability: Like all Reliance-class cutters, Courageous was equipped for law enforcement, search and rescue, and environmental protection, making her a versatile asset for the Coast Guard.
• Decommissioning: After nearly 33 years of service, USCGC Courageous was decommissioned on September 19, 2001, at Panama City, Florida.
• Transfer to Sri Lanka: Following her decommissioning, she was transferred to the Sri Lankan Navy and recommissioned as SLNS Sagara, continuing her service overseas.
• Decorated Cutter: Over her career, Courageous received numerous awards and commendations for her performance in law enforcement, humanitarian, and search and rescue missions.
• Legacy of Service: The stories and crew of Courageous exemplify the Coast Guard’s motto “Semper Paratus” (Always Ready), and her legacy lives on through the continued service of Reliance-class cutters and her new role with the Sri Lankan Navy.
