Newport Beach Council’s USCGC Narwhal Awarded Meritorious Unit Commendation
By Brett Davis
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Narwhal, based in Corona del Mar, California, has been awarded the Coast Guard’s Meritorious Unit Commendation for the period July 2017 to February 2020. The Coast Guard commandant cited Narwhal (WPB 87335), sponsored by the Newport Beach Navy League Council, for its distinguished service and operations in a variety of missions, both at sea and ashore.
Outstanding performances named in the commendation include Narwhal swiftly responding to a deadly fire onboard the merchant vessel Conception that claimed 34 lives off the Southern California coast. The cutter’s crew managed multiple local, state and federal assets to ensure the safe and successful search, rescue and recovery operations lasting several weeks.
Exceeding routine duties, Narwhal’s crew endured a 14-hour transit in 13-foot seas to enforce a maritime safety zone for the successful $62-million SpaceX Falcon 9 launch off the California coast.
The Commendation concluded with the following: “The devotion to duty and outstanding performance demonstrated by USCGC Narwhal are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.”
A virtual recognition ceremony for Narwhal’s accomplishments was held Feb. 8, led by Capt. Rebecca Ore, commander USCG Sector Los Angeles Long Beach, and was streamed live on Narwhal’s Facebook page.