Bollinger Delivers 34th FRC to Coast Guard

Bollinger Shipyards has delivered the USCGC William Hart, the 34th Fast Response Cutter (FRC) to the U.S. Coast Guard.  The Coast Guard took delivery on May 23, 2019 in Key West, Florida.  

The 154-foot Sentinel-class Fast Response Cutter has a flank speed over 28 knots, state of the art command, control, communications and computer technology, and a stern launch system for the vessel’s 26-foot cutter boat. The FRC has been described as an operational “game changer,” by senior Coast Guard officials. Recently, the Coast Guard deployed the FRC 1124, Oliver Berry from Hawaii across the Pacific to the Republic of the Marshall Islands.  The 4,400 nautical mile trip marked the furthest deployment of an FRC to date.  This trip showcases the hugely expanded operational reach and capability that the FRC provides.  

Each FRC is named for an enlisted Coast Guard hero who distinguished him or herself in the line of duty. This vessel is named after Coast Guard Hero William Hart.  In November 1926, while assisting a crew abandon ship due to heavy seas and treacherous weather, Hart skillfully maneuvered his boat near the tug and took off the crew.  While doing so, one member of the crew of the tug fell overboard and was in imminent danger of drowning.  Hart jumped overboard and affected the rescue at great personal risk.  For his heroic and selfless action, Hart was awarded the Gold Lifesaving Medal on May 24, 1927.  Hart was also commended for actions in response to a floating gasoline fire in Arundel Cove while on board CG-210 on August 26, 1927.