uscgc point divide

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Branch

U.S. Coast Guard

Members

About uscgc point divide

USCGC Point Divide (WPB-82331) was an 82-foot Point-class cutter built for the United States Coast Guard and commissioned in 1962. Designed for law enforcement and search and rescue operations, she was notable for her service during the Vietnam War as part of Coast Guard Squadron One in Operation Market Time, interdicting enemy supply lines along the coast of South Vietnam. After her Vietnam service, Point Divide returned to domestic duties, including patrolling and lifesaving missions along the U.S. coastline. She remained in service until being decommissioned and transferred to another nation's maritime service in the late 20th century.

Unit Members

Stephen Smith

U.S. Coast Guard

uscgc point divideView Profile

Photos

USCG Station San Francisco, CA

USCG Station San Francisco, CA • U.S. Coast Guard • 1989

USCGC Point Brower Homeport San Diego CA

USCGC Point Brower (WPB-82372) • U.S. Coast Guard • 1986

USCGC Boutwell (WHEC-719)

USCGC Boutwell (WHEC-719) • U.S. Coast Guard • 1982

USCGC Campbell (WHEC-32)

U.S. Coast Guard • 1975

About uscgc point divide

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Commissioning: USCGC Point Divide (WPB-82331) was commissioned in 1961 as part of the Point-class cutter fleet designed for law enforcement and search and rescue duties. • Vietnam Service: The cutter was deployed to South Vietnam in 1965 as part of Operation Market Time, aimed at stopping the flow of weapons and supplies to Viet Cong forces by sea. • Operation Market Time: Point Divide was one of 26 Point-class cutters sent to Vietnam, where it conducted interdiction patrols, boarding and searching thousands of vessels for contraband. • Combat Modifications: Before deployment to Vietnam, Point Divide was modified with additional armament, including a combination .50-caliber machine gun/81mm mortar and extra radios for improved combat capability. • Transfer to the Republic of Vietnam Navy: In February 1970, Point Divide was transferred to the South Vietnamese Navy and renamed RVNS Nguyen Van Truong (HQ-712). • Small Crew, Big Impact: The cutter operated with a crew of just 8–13 men, but played a significant role in coastal interdiction and supporting ground operations during the Vietnam War. • Innovative Design: The Point-class cutters, including Point Divide, were notable for their shallow draft and agility, allowing them to patrol close to shore and navigate rivers and inlets. • Heroism at Sea: Crews aboard Point Divide often faced hostile fire and challenging conditions, earning awards and commendations for their bravery and effectiveness in combat zones. • Legacy of Service: The service of Point Divide and her sister ships in Vietnam helped cement the reputation of the Coast Guard as an integral part of U.S. military operations overseas. • End of Service: After her service with the Republic of Vietnam Navy, the ultimate fate of the vessel is unclear, but she is remembered as part of the historic Point-class contributions to U.S. naval history.