About this Unit
USCGC Storis (WMEC-38) was a United States Coast Guard cutter commissioned in 1942, originally built as an icebreaker for service during World War II. Throughout her long career, Storis served in the North Atlantic and then the Pacific, playing a vital role in the Greenland Patrol and later supporting operations in Alaska, including search and rescue, law enforcement, and fisheries patrols. In 1957, she became the first American vessel to circumnavigate North America via the Northwest Passage. Decommissioned in 2007, Storis held the distinction of being the oldest commissioned cutter in the Coast Guard fleet at the time of her retirement.
Historical Facts
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Oldest Commissioned Cutter: USCGC Storis (WMEC-38) was the oldest commissioned cutter in the United States Coast Guard when she was decommissioned in 2007, having served for over 64 years.
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Built During World War II: Storis was launched in April 1942 and commissioned in September 1942, originally intended for the Greenland Patrol during World War II.
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Historic Northwest Passage Transit: In 1957, Storis became the first American vessel to circumnavigate North America via the Northwest Passage, together with USCGC Bramble and USCGC Spar.
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Icebreaking Capabilities: Designed as an icebreaker, Storis was involved in operations in the harsh Arctic, including resupplying remote locations and aiding navigation in ice-filled waters.
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Alaska Patrols: For much of her career, Storis patrolled Alaskan waters, performing search and rescue, law enforcement, and fisheries patrol missions.
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Multi-role Service: The cutter was involved in diverse operations including search and rescue, law enforcement, drug interdiction, and environmental protection.
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“Queen of the Fleet” Title: Upon the decommissioning of USCGC Acushnet in 2007, Storis became the “Queen of the Fleet,” a title given to the oldest commissioned cutter in the Coast Guard.
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Numerous Awards: Storis earned multiple commendations and awards throughout her service, including the Coast Guard Unit Commendation and the Arctic Service Medal.
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Community Engagement: The cutter was well-known and beloved in her homeport of Kodiak, Alaska, where she was an important part of the community for decades.
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Preservation Efforts: After decommissioning, there were several efforts to preserve Storis as a museum ship, but unfortunately, she was sold for scrap in 2013 after these efforts failed. Her legacy, however, continues to be celebrated by veterans and historians.
