USCGC RUSH

• 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. • 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. • Vietnam War Service: USCGC Rush (WHEC-723) served in the Vietnam War as part of Operation Market Time, conducting coastal surveillance and interdiction missions. • 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. • Drug Interdiction Success: Rush played a significant role in drug interdiction operations, participating in multiple major seizures of narcotics being smuggled by sea. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.