ABOUT USCGC VIGOROUS
- Commissioned in 1969: USCGC VIGOROUS (WMEC-627) was commissioned into the United States Coast Guard in 1969 as part of the Reliance-class medium endurance cutters.
- Reliance-Class Cutter: VIGOROUS is one of 16 Reliance-class cutters, designed primarily for law enforcement, search and rescue, and national defense missions.
- Homeport: The cutter is currently homeported in Virginia Beach, Virginia, serving the Atlantic coast and Caribbean Sea.
- Drug Interdiction: VIGOROUS has participated in numerous high-profile drug interdiction missions, seizing thousands of pounds of illegal narcotics over the decades.
- Historic Rescue Operations: In 1980, VIGOROUS rescued 29 Cuban refugees from a sinking vessel during the Mariel boatlift crisis.
- Modernization Upgrades: The cutter has undergone significant modernization, including electronics and habitability upgrades, to extend her service life.
- Diversified Crew: VIGOROUS boasts a diverse crew of over 75 men and women, including officers and enlisted personnel from various backgrounds.
- Joint Operations: The cutter frequently conducts joint operations and exercises with the U.S. Navy and allied naval forces, enhancing inter-service and international cooperation.
- Environmental Protection: VIGOROUS has been involved in multiple environmental protection operations, including oil spill response and fisheries enforcement.
- Community Outreach: The crew of VIGOROUS actively participates in public outreach, including open ship tours and community service events, strengthening ties with the local community.