This past weekend a commissioning ceremony for the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Calhoun (WMSL 759), the newest addition to the Coast Guard’s national security cutter fleet, at Coast Guard Base Charleston.
The Calhoun is the 10th Legend-class national security cutter in the Coast Guard’s fleet and the fourth of its kind to be homeported in North Charleston. Named after Charles L. Calhoun, the first master chief petty officer of the Coast Guard, this cutter’s commissioning ceremony was held on his birthday. Calhoun’s distinguished career included service in the U.S. Navy during World War II before joining the Coast Guard in 1946. He contributed significantly during the Vietnam War and played a crucial role in fostering collaboration between command and enlisted personnel.
Construction of the Calhoun began in 2019, with the cutter officially delivered in October 2023 before arriving at its homeport in North Charleston on December 3, 2023. The commissioning ceremony not only marked the addition of this advanced vessel to the Coast Guard’s fleet but also honored the legacy of Charles L. Calhoun and his impactful contributions to the Coast Guard’s history.
