The U.S. Coast Guard officially welcomed its 21st Fast Response Cutter (FRC), the USCGC John Mccormick, into service during a commissioning ceremony on April 12, 2017, in Ketchikan, Alaska. This marked a significant milestone as the John McCormick became the first FRC to be stationed on the West Coast, bolstering the Coast Guard’s presence in the vast and vital 17th District, encompassing the Alaskan coastline and its inland waterways.
The cutter is named in honor of Boatswain John McCormick, a Coast Guard hero who demonstrated extraordinary bravery in 1938. As the officer-in-charge of Motor Lifeboat Triumph from Station Point Adams, Oregon, McCormick was called to action on March 26 when a crewman was swept overboard in the treacherous Columbia River. Facing strong currents and dangerous breakers, McCormick skillfully maneuvered the 52-foot wooden lifeboat to rescue the drowning sailor, saving his life. For his selfless act of valor, Boatswain John McCormick was awarded the Gold Lifesaving Medal, a testament to his courage and commitment to his fellow mariners.
The Fast Response Cutters like the USCGC John McCormick represent a significant upgrade to the Coast Guard’s capabilities. Designed for coastal patrol, these cutters boast an impressive endurance of five days and can reach speeds exceeding 28 knots. Equipped with advanced command, control, communication, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) technology, the FRCs are highly effective in a range of missions. They also feature the ability to deploy and retrieve standardized cutter boats from the stern or sides, enhancing their operational flexibility. Furthermore, the FRC design prioritizes improved seakeeping and habitability, ensuring crew comfort and effectiveness even in challenging maritime conditions.
These advanced cutters are strategically replacing the older 110-foot Island-class patrol boats, modernizing the Coast Guard fleet. The FRCs work in conjunction with the offshore patrol cutters and national security cutters, creating a tiered approach to maritime security and operations. As of April 2017, 38 of the planned 58 FRCs had been ordered, with 21 already in service. Beyond Ketchikan, FRCs are stationed in strategic locations including Cape May, New Jersey; Miami and Key West, Florida; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. The commissioning of the USCGC John McCormick and the upcoming arrival of the USCGC Bailey Barco in Ketchikan in June underscore the Coast Guard’s ongoing investment in modern assets and its dedication to safeguarding America’s coasts.
For those seeking more in-depth information, the Coast Guard provides a dedicated Fast Response Cutter program page offering comprehensive details about this vital program.
