Farewell Boutwell,
The Philippine Navy (PN) formally received its third Del Pilar-class frigate, the former Hamilton-class U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell (WHEC-719) late last month. It was a warm transfer with the ship’s decommissioning (and simultaneous striking by MARAD) and the subsequent christening and commissioning ceremonies by the PN conducted at USCG Base Alameda, California 21 July.
Boutwell commissioned on 24 June 1968, in New Orleans, Louisiana for a cost of $14.5 million. In all, the Coast Guard got 48 years and 27 days out of her, which is a heck of a return on the investment.
The newest member of the PN took the name Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas (BRP) Andres Bonifacio (FF17).