USCGC Taney, Baltimore

The USCGC Taney is a remarkable warship with an illustrious history. Built in 1936, it was one of seven Treasury-class cutters, and one of only two that are still afloat. The ship was originally named after Roger B. Taney, who had a distinguished career as U.S. Attorney General, Secretary of the Treasury, and Chief Justice of the United States.

The USCGC Taney is best known for its role in the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Berthed at Honolulu Harbor that morning, the ship immediately went into action, firing its guns at the attacking Japanese planes. The USCGC Taney was the last warship still floating that fought in the Pearl Harbor attack.

The ship continued to play an important role in World War II, serving in both theaters of combat. It was used as a command ship at the Battle of Okinawa and as a fleet escort in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. The USCGC Taney also saw action in the Vietnam War, taking part in Operation Market Time, and was used in drug interdiction and fisheries protection work.

After serving for 50 years, the USCGC Taney was decommissioned in 1986. It has since been anchored in Baltimore's Inner Harbor and turned into a museum ship cared for by the Baltimore Maritime Museum. In recognition of her historical namesake's acts of racial injustice, the ship's name will be changed to simply WHEC-37.

The USCGC Taney is a National Historic Landmark and a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the men and women who served aboard her. Its legacy as the last surviving warship from Pearl Harbor and its participation in significant events in American history make it a unique and valuable piece of the country's maritime heritage.