USCGC SUMAC (WLR 311)

• Commissioning: USCGC SUMAC (WLR 311) was commissioned in 1944, serving the United States Coast Guard for decades as a river buoy tender. • Name Origin: The cutter is named after the sumac plant, following the tradition of naming buoy tenders after plants and trees. • Class and Type: SUMAC is part of the 100-foot class river buoy tenders, specifically designed for inland waterway service. • Primary Mission: The vessel’s main role is to maintain aids to navigation (ATON) along rivers and inland waterways, ensuring safe passage for commercial and military vessels. • World War II Service: Built during World War II, the SUMAC contributed to the war effort by keeping navigation routes clear for military logistics. • Homeport: SUMAC has been homeported in various locations, with a significant period spent operating from St. Louis, Missouri, serving the Upper Mississippi River region. • Design Features: The cutter is equipped with a flat-bottom hull, making it ideal for shallow waters and river operations. • Multi-Mission Platform: In addition to ATON, SUMAC has participated in flood relief, environmental protection efforts, and search and rescue missions on inland waters. • Longevity: Serving for over 75 years, SUMAC is notable for its extended service life, exemplifying the durability and reliability of its class. • Decommissioning: USCGC SUMAC (WLR 311) was decommissioned in 2020, marking the end of an era for one of the Coast Guard’s longest-serving river tenders.