About this Unit
USCGC Rush refers to several cutters that have served in the United States Coast Guard, most notably the USCGC Rush (WHEC-723), a high endurance cutter commissioned in 1968. Throughout its service, Rush participated in a variety of missions including law enforcement, search and rescue, and maritime security operations, particularly in the Pacific Ocean. The cutter was notably active during the Vietnam War, supporting Operation Market Time to interdict enemy supply lines. After over four decades of distinguished service, USCGC Rush was decommissioned in 2015 and later transferred to the Bangladesh Navy, where it was recommissioned as BNS Somudra Avijan.
Historical Facts
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Two Notable Ships Named USCGC Rush: The name "USCGC Rush" has been assigned to several Coast Guard cutters, most notably the USCGC Rush (WHEC-723), a high endurance cutter commissioned in 1968, and the earlier USCGC Rush (WPG-123), a Lake-class cutter active from 1927 to 1947.
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Named After a Treasury Secretary: The ships are named in honor of Richard Rush, the 8th U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, who served from 1825 to 1829.
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Vietnam War Service: USCGC Rush (WHEC-723) served in the Vietnam War as part of Operation Market Time, conducting coastal surveillance and interdiction missions.
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Rescue Operations: Throughout its service, USCGC Rush was involved in numerous high-profile rescue missions, including assisting distressed mariners, conducting medical evacuations, and saving lives at sea.
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Drug Interdiction Success: Rush played a significant role in drug interdiction operations, participating in multiple major seizures of narcotics being smuggled by sea.
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Alaska Patrols: The cutter frequently patrolled the waters of Alaska, enforcing fisheries laws, protecting marine resources, and supporting search and rescue missions in extreme conditions.
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International Cooperation: USCGC Rush engaged in joint operations and exercises with allied navies, such as those of Japan, South Korea, and Russia, helping to strengthen international maritime partnerships.
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Longevity of Service: Commissioned in 1968, USCGC Rush (WHEC-723) served for 46 years before being decommissioned in 2015, making it one of the longest-serving cutters in the Coast Guard.
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Transfer to Sri Lanka: After decommissioning, the USCGC Rush was transferred to the Sri Lankan Navy in 2015, where it was recommissioned as SLNS Sayurala, continuing its maritime security mission.
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Decorations and Recognition: The various USCGC Rush cutters have earned multiple commendations and awards, including the Coast Guard Unit Commendation and campaign medals for their service in Vietnam and other operations.
