Myrtle Lighting the Way: 5,380 nautical miles on a 154-footer
The USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139) crew returns home Dec. 14, 2025, after completing a successful expeditionary patrol under Operation Blue Pacific, deepening partnerships with Pacific nations and bolstering maritime security in the region. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Mandy Thomas) 251214-G-G0020-7958
The tired crew of the 154-foot Sentinel (Webber)-class fast response cutter USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139) returned home to Guam last week, capping a 5,380nm expeditionary patrol that lasted just under a month (17 November to 14 December) under Operation Blue Pacific. Of that, 15 days were dedicated to” providing a persistent presence in the exclusive economic zones of the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau.”
They also conducted five community events, including a volleyball game with locals, swimming lessons for children, and tours of the cutter.
“The patrol went beyond simple transit. It focused on building maritime security, engaging directly with Pacific partners, and enforcing international maritime law through shared operations,” notes the service.
Keep in mind that the FSM and Palau are being highly courted by Chinese interests, as are just about every island chain between Guam and the Philippines and Australia and Taiwan. So this is truly a hearts and minds mission in addition to showing the flag.
That’s why the two dozen Coasties aboard the 154-footer are punching above their weight class.
Hazard is the 39th FRC, named in honor of the first enlisted woman in the U.S. Coast Guard who served as an electrician and radio operator in the Great War.
She is one of three cutters of her class currently based in Guam and arrived there five years ago, replacing two aging 110-foot Island-class WPBs.
Santa Rita, Guam (Sept. 24, 2020) Coast Guard Cutter Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139) enters Apra Harbor before arriving at its new homeport in Santa Rita, Guam. The new Fast Response Cutter (FRC) is the first of three scheduled to be stationed on Guam and is replacing the 30-year old 110-foot Island-class patrol boats. FRCs are equipped with new advanced command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems and boast greater range and endurance. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class MacAdam Kane Weissman)