Beginning in March 1942 the Coast Guard received the first of 76 Kingfishers; The Kingfishers were modified for Coast Guard use and were designated OS2U-3s. Their primary purpose was to provide the Coast Guard’s early anti-submarine efforts along the coastlines of the United States. Area patrols were flown and air cover for merchant convoys was provided.
The Coast Guard obtained six Chance-Vought O2U-2 Corsairs from the Navy Department’s inventory; three in 1934 and three more in 1935. They were modified at Eastern Air Service, Miami. The overhaul included removal of til hooks, installation of dual controls for the aft cockpit, installation of Coast Guard radios, and engine overhauls.
A UO-1 was borrowed from the Navy to demonstrate the advantages of aircraft during prohibition. The demonstration was successful and appropriations were forthcoming for the
THE COAST GUARD AVIATION ASSOCIATION
“Flying Since The World Was Flat”
Also known as the Ancient Order of the Pterodactyl, the CGAA is dedicated to the support of the men, women, and families making up Coast Guard Aviation, as well as the preservation of Coast Guard Aviation history from its earliest period to the present day.
Use of material is granted for personal and non-profit educational organizations’ non-commercial use. Please credit the Coast Guard Aviation Association (CGAA) for source material used. For Commercial use or other considerations contact [email protected]
This website is not an official U.S. Coast Guard site, however, the owner of this website is officially licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard. The use of the words U.S. Coast Guard, USCG and other Coast Guard-related symbols does not constitute a U.S. Coast Guard endorsement. To reach the official U.S. Coast Guard Web site, please visit www.uscg.mil.
