About this Unit
USCGC Gallatin (WHEC-721) was a high endurance cutter of the United States Coast Guard, commissioned in 1968. Named after Albert Gallatin, the longest-serving U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, Gallatin served primarily in law enforcement, search and rescue, and maritime defense operations along the Atlantic and Caribbean. The cutter participated in numerous drug interdiction missions and migrant rescues, earning multiple commendations for her service. After more than 45 years of active duty, Gallatin was decommissioned in 2014 and later transferred to the Nigerian Navy, continuing her legacy as NNS Okpabana.
Historical Facts
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Two Ships Named Gallatin: There have been two US Coast Guard Cutters named Gallatin: USCGC Gallatin (WHEC-721), a high endurance cutter commissioned in 1968, and USCGC Gallatin (WPG-115), a Treasury-class cutter commissioned in 1945.
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Named After Albert Gallatin: The cutters are named in honor of Albert Gallatin, the fourth U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, who was instrumental in the early development of the Coast Guard’s predecessor, the Revenue Cutter Service.
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Cuban Missile Crisis Service: The first USCGC Gallatin (WPG-115) participated in the naval quarantine of Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962.
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Vietnam War Involvement: USCGC Gallatin (WHEC-721) served in the Vietnam War as part of Operation Market Time, conducting coastal patrols and interdiction operations.
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Drug Interdiction Success: The modern Gallatin (WHEC-721) was heavily involved in drug interdiction missions in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, seizing thousands of pounds of illegal narcotics.
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Mariel Boatlift Support: In 1980, Gallatin played a key role in the Mariel Boatlift, helping to rescue and transport Cuban refugees to safety in the United States.
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Search and Rescue Operations: Throughout her service, Gallatin responded to numerous search and rescue missions, saving the lives of mariners in distress.
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Homeports: The Gallatin (WHEC-721) was homeported in various locations during her service, including Governors Island, New York, and later Charleston, South Carolina.
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International Cooperation: Gallatin participated in joint operations with foreign navies and coast guards, strengthening international maritime security and relations.
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Transfer to Nigerian Navy: After being decommissioned in 2014, USCGC Gallatin (WHEC-721) was transferred to the Nigerian Navy, where she was renamed NNS Okpabana and continues to serve.
