The USCG Marion was a 125-foot patrol boat. She carried 20 enlisted men.
After finding this photograph of the USCG Marion’s crew in our family’s album, I was curious about their deployment in the islands.
The photograph was obviously taken at the Creque Marine Railway on Hassel Island, a business our great-grandfather owned.
He must have taken it while repairs were being made to their vessel.
The Need for a Patrol Vessel
In 1931, when Dr. Paul M. Pearson became the first civilian governor of the Virgin Islands, he inquired at the Department of the Interior about having a Coast Guard Cutter stationed in St. Thomas.
Within a few short weeks, the USCG Cutter, Marion was deployed.
After reading everything I could find about them, I was surprised to learn of the incredible contributions these servicemen made to our community.
Below is a list of some of the events they participated in; many at a moments notice and some in the middle of the night.
- Rescuing distressed vessels (Schooner Benjamin W. Latham)
- Military parades (Welcoming new Governor, Lawrence Cramer)
- Transporting sick seaman 76 miles for help;
- Transporting ice-packed body back to Puerto Rico
- Putting out fires on Main Street (Paiewonsky’s Rum Factory)
- Late night emergency trips to and from St. John, St. Croix and Puerto Rico
- Searching for stolen vessels: (Three Sisters owned by William Callwood)
- Assisting in burials at sea (Weld Stevens)
- Dress parades
- Sports activities
- Shooting and Rifle tournaments;
- Honoring fallen soldiers on Memorial Day
- Supporting the hospital benefit
- Transporting car accident victims to Puerto Rico at night (Seargent Jessee B. Melear)
- Transporting dignitaries and photographers (Pres. Roosevelt D. Roosevelt’s photographers)
- Celebrating Constitution Day
Though over 90 years have passed since the Marion’s crew first gave their service, it’s never too late to show our gratitude.
Thank you!
U.S.C.G. MARION
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