USCGC Campbell (WPG-32) - Launch and Early Service

Launch and Early Service

The George W. Campbell was launched on 3 June 1936 and sailed to her homeport of Stapleton, New York, under the command of Cdr. E.G. Rose, USCG, assigned to conduct search and rescue and law enforcement patrols. She left New York on 22 October 1936, for her shakedown cruise to Southampton, England, returning to New York on 16 November. Her peace-time armament consisted of two 5-inch 51 caliber and two 6-pound signal guns, all mounted forward. Unlike the other Secretary Class cutters, Campbell and Ingham did not continue to carry aircraft, though they had originally been equipped to do so.

In August 1937 her official name was shortened to "Campbell" and it was also during this time that her mascot Sinbad reported aboard. Sinbad remained on the Campbell throughout her tour of duty during World War II, caused at least two international incidents in foreign harbors, faithfully manned his battle station during combat, and generally kept the crew amused during her long voyages over eleven years; Sinbad died on 30 December 1951, after many years of service, and was the first and one of the few Coast Guardsmen to have a published biography.