USCGC Tanager

• World War I Origins: USCGC Tanager (Minesweeper No. 5) was originally built as a Lapwing-class minesweeper for the U.S. Navy during World War I and commissioned in 1918. • Conversion to Coast Guard: After serving in the Navy, Tanager was transferred to the United States Coast Guard in 1926 and redesignated as USCGC Tanager (WAVP-385). • Pearl Harbor Survivor: During the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Tanager was present in the harbor and actively participated in defensive actions against Japanese aircraft. • Minesweeping Operations: Tanager was heavily involved in clearing naval mines from Hawaii’s waters, playing a crucial role in restoring safe navigation following the Pearl Harbor attack. • Service in the Pacific: The vessel operated extensively throughout the Pacific, supporting U.S. military operations and conducting search and rescue missions during World War II. • Heroic Crew:** The crew of Tanager were credited with saving numerous lives during the war, including rescuing sailors from damaged or sinking ships. • Final Fate: On May 4, 1942, while clearing mines at French Frigate Shoals, Tanager struck a mine and sank, resulting in the loss of one crew member. • Namesake Bird: The vessel was named after the tanager, a brightly colored bird, in keeping with the Lapwing-class minesweepers’ tradition of bird names. • Legacy in Naval History: Tanager’s service exemplifies the dangerous and often overlooked role of minesweepers in naval warfare, ensuring safe passage for other vessels. • Commemoration: The bravery and sacrifice of the Tanager and her crew are remembered in U.S. Navy and Coast Guard history, and she is listed among the ships lost during World War II operations.