Two bits of news about USCGC Adak, one of the 110s currently assigned to Bahrain as part of PATFORSWA.

First, it is to be sold to Indonesia in three days. Not surprising considering the first two of six Webber class intended to replace the six Island class cutters should be there any time now.

Second, there is a move afoot to try to retain Adak as a museum ship because of her role in the evacuation of Manhattan following the attack on 9/11.

Have to say I have mixed feelings about this. At this late date, if we back out of the deal with Indonesia, it might be viewed badly by a nation we want to help and maintain good relations with. Substituting one of the other cutters might suffice, but ultimately all these boats are probably going to allies in the Pacific. There they can continue to do good work.

I have also seen too many attempts to keep museum ships that have foundered leaving the ship derelict. There is also the fact that the evacuation was such a massive effort by mariners of all kinds that I almost feel focusing on the Coast Guard’s efforts diminishes recognition of the scope of the effort.

On the other hand, if any 110 should be preserved, Adak is an excellent choice, given her role in 9/11, the Gulf War, and PATFORSWA.