USCGC White Holly

• World War II Construction: USCGC White Holly was constructed in 1943 by the Zenith Dredge Company in Duluth, Minnesota, originally serving as a buoy tender for the United States Coast Guard during World War II. • Original Designation: The vessel was initially designated as WAGL-544 and later reclassified as WLM-544, indicating its role as a coastal buoy tender. • Service on the Mississippi River: White Holly spent much of her career tending aids to navigation on the Mississippi River, ensuring safe passage for both military and civilian vessels. • Hurricane Katrina Response: In 2005, the White Holly played a crucial role in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, supporting relief and recovery operations along the Gulf Coast. • Vietnam War Support: The vessel was deployed to Vietnam in the late 1960s as part of Operation Market Time, where she helped interdict enemy supply routes and maintained navigation aids. • Firefighting Capability: White Holly was equipped with firefighting apparatus and was called upon several times to assist with maritime and port fires during her service. • Decommissioning and Civilian Use: After being decommissioned by the Coast Guard in 1998, White Holly was acquired by private interests and continues to operate as a research and supply vessel out of San Francisco Bay. • Environmental Missions: In her civilian life, White Holly has participated in scientific expeditions and marine research, including supporting efforts to monitor whale migrations and ocean health. • Historic Ship Status: The vessel is recognized as one of the oldest surviving buoy tenders built during World War II, representing an important era in both Coast Guard and maritime history. • Community Engagement: White Holly regularly hosts educational tours and participates in maritime festivals, sharing her rich history with the public and promoting maritime heritage.