USCGC YAKATAT

• Commissioned in World War II: USCGC YAKATAT (WAVP-380) was commissioned in 1945 as a Barnegat-class seaplane tender for the United States Navy and then transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard. • Named After Alaskan Bay: The ship was named after Yakutat Bay in Alaska, in keeping with the Coast Guard tradition of naming cutters after North American bays and inlets. • Weather Patrol Service: YAKATAT served as an ocean station vessel, patrolling designated areas in the Atlantic Ocean to collect vital meteorological data and assist in air-sea rescue operations during the Cold War. • Rescue Operations: The cutter was involved in several rescue and assistance operations, aiding distressed vessels and downed aircraft in the treacherous North Atlantic. • Oceanographic Research: Besides her meteorological role, YAKATAT also conducted oceanographic research, helping to improve the understanding of marine conditions for both military and civilian navigation. • Conversion to High Endurance Cutter: In 1966, YAKATAT was reclassified as a High Endurance Cutter (WHEC-380), reflecting her new mission focus on law enforcement, search and rescue, and military readiness. • Vietnam War Service: In 1971, YAKATAT was transferred to the Republic of Vietnam Navy and renamed RVNS Trần Nhật Duật (HQ-03), where she continued to serve during the Vietnam War. • Escape After Fall of Saigon: After the fall of Saigon in 1975, the ship was among those that escaped to the Philippines, carrying Vietnamese refugees and sailors seeking asylum. • Decommissioning: After her service in Vietnam and subsequent use by the Philippine Navy, YAKATAT was eventually decommissioned and struck from service, ending a distinguished multi-national career. • Decorated Service: YAKATAT earned several commendations, including campaign ribbons and unit citations, reflecting her diverse and heroic service history across three different navies.