About this Unit
USCGC MIDGETT (WMSL-757) is a Legend-class National Security Cutter of the United States Coast Guard, commissioned in 2019. Named after the distinguished Midgett family, known for their heroic lifesaving service, the cutter is the eighth vessel of its class. Homeported in Honolulu, Hawaii, USCGC MIDGETT conducts a wide range of missions, including law enforcement, search and rescue, and national defense operations throughout the Pacific region. The cutter has participated in numerous multi-national exercises and has played a key role in maritime security and drug interdiction efforts.
Historical Facts
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Named After a Heroic Family: USCGC MIDGETT is named in honor of the Midgett family of the Outer Banks, North Carolina, known for their generations of lifesaving service in the U.S. Lifesaving Service and U.S. Coast Guard.
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Two MIDGETTs: There have been two cutters named USCGC MIDGETT: WHEC-726 (commissioned 1972) and WMSL-757 (commissioned 2019), the latter being a Legend-class National Security Cutter.
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High Endurance Cutter: The first USCGC MIDGETT (WHEC-726) was one of the 378-foot Hamilton-class High Endurance Cutters, designed for extended offshore patrols.
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Vietnam War Service: USCGC MIDGETT (WHEC-726) served in the Vietnam War, supporting Operation Market Time, which aimed to stop the flow of supplies by sea to the Viet Cong.
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Rescue Missions: The MIDGETT cutters have participated in numerous dramatic rescues at sea, saving fishermen, migrants, and mariners in distress across the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.
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Drug Interdiction Success: Both MIDGETT cutters have played major roles in counter-drug operations, seizing tons of illegal narcotics and apprehending smugglers in joint operations with U.S. and allied agencies.
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Family Legacy: At least seven Midgett family members have received the Gold Lifesaving Medal, and the cutters named after them continue this tradition of service and heroism.
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Modern Technology: USCGC MIDGETT (WMSL-757) features state-of-the-art command and control systems, a flight deck for helicopters and drones, and improved habitability for her crew.
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International Cooperation: The MIDGETT cutters regularly participate in joint exercises and operations with the U.S. Navy, allied navies, and coast guards, enhancing maritime security worldwide.
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Notable Deployments: USCGC MIDGETT (WMSL-757) was commissioned in a dual ceremony with her sister ship, USCGC KIMBALL, in Honolulu, Hawaii, marking a historic moment for the Coast Guard's Pacific presence.
