USCGC Kiska (WPB 1336)

USCGC Kiska (WPB 1336)

Receiving its name from the famed island of Kiska, Alaska --the sight of a historic WW II battle that helped turn the tide against Japanese forces – the USCGC Kiska proudly carries out its mission to patrol and protect the waters surrounding Hilo, HI. As the only US Coast Guard Cutter homeported on the big island of Hawaii, this Island-class patrol boat plays an integral part in maintaining the maritime security of the big island. The Kiska determinedly pursues its mission to carry out search and rescue operations, migrant interdiction and fisheries enforcement. Measuring 110 feet in length and possessing a displacement of 168 tons, the boat is well suited to act and react quickly to circumstances on the waters around the Hawaiian chain of islands.
Every year, the boat’s contributions to the community are recognized when the Hilo Mayor proclaims Kiska Appreciation Day to honor the Kiska’s crew and their families.  In 2004, as a testament to the Kiska’s service, it was formally adopted by the Hilo Council Navy League as part of the city of Hilo, HI.

The obverse of the coin shows the ship patrolling the waters before the big island’s volcano. A depiction of Hawaii with a star noting the location Hilo is displayed to the right. Two palm trees are shown on either side of the obverse. The reverse shows the Coast Guard’s motto in colored enamel. Minted in a brass alloy, this coin contains rich enamel accents on both its obverse and reverse sides.