Coast Guard Cutter Dallas Decommissioned

USCGS Dallas will be second warship ex USCG transferred to Phillipines Navy (photo : USCGS)

NORTH CHARLESTON, SC (WCIV) – The Coast Guard Cutter Dallas was decommissioned today after 45 years of service.

A ceremony was held at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, Pier Papa at 10 a.m. Friday.

"Many crews have accomplished remarkable and even historic deeds aboard Dallas in her 45 years of service," said Vice Admiral Robert C. Parker, commander of the Coast Guard Atlantic Area.

The Dallas was involved in several major drug busts this year. Parker said it was due to the work of a remarkable and unique crew that the 45-year-old vessel could easily reach top speeds, launch boats and Coast Guard helicopter in pursuit of drug smugglers throughout its deployment.

Parker said Dallas' last crew was the best crew.

"These folks always got Dallas back in the hunt as one of the most capable cutters in the Caribbean.

During the final patrol, the crew of the Dallas interdicted approximately 4,000 pounds of cocaine and 940 pounds of marijuana during two separate cases while on patrol in the Caribbean Sea.

Coast Guard Cutter Dallas is scheduled to be transferred through the Foreign Assistance Act to the Philippine government for service in their navy.

(ABCNews4)