By JOHN McCARTHY/V.I. Free Press Staff
FREDERIKSTED — Residents looking out over the West End today were treated to a view of one of the U.S. Coast Guard’s most decorated workhorses. The USCGC Mohawk (WMEC-913), affectionately known by her crew as the “Mighty Mo,” is currently docked at our very own “front porch” in St. Croix.
The 270-foot Famous-class cutter didn’t just drift in for the scenery. Based out of Key West, Florida, the Mohawk is a primary enforcer in the Caribbean Basin, specializing in multi-week maritime border security patrols. Her presence here is a reminder of the ongoing mission to intercept illicit narcotics and conduct critical search-and-rescue operations in the deep blue waters surrounding the Virgin Islands.
Equipped with a sophisticated flight deck and a 76mm OTO Melara main gun, the Mohawk is more than just a patrol boat—it’s a floating fortress. In recent years, this vessel has made international headlines for massive multi-ton drug interdictions and even rare deployments to the coast of West Africa to combat piracy.
While the crew enjoys a well-deserved breather in our beautiful Frederiksted, their presence serves as a silent sentinel for the territory. Whether they are stopping “go-fast” boats or ensuring the safety of local mariners, the Mohawk remains a vital part of the shield protecting our shores.
We welcome the men and women of the Mohawk to St. Croix. Fair winds and following seas on your next patrol.
The Factoid Graphic (Post-Script)
🛡️ SHIP PROFILE: USCGC MOHAWK (WMEC-913)
- Class: Famous-class Medium Endurance Cutter.
- Length: 270 Feet.
- Top Speed: 19.5 Knots.
- Crew: 100+ (14 Officers, 86 Enlisted).
- Motto: Lifesaver, Enforcer, Defender.
- Did You Know? The Mohawk was the 13th and final ship built in its class. It’s essentially the “Series 3” of the Coast Guard fleet—highly refined, rugged, and built to handle the roughest Atlantic swells.
