Coast Guard to Commission Cutter Named After First African-American Female Master Chief Petty Officer

A commissioning ceremony will be held at the Coast Guard Training Center in Cape May, N.J., on Saturday for the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Angela McShan (WPC 1134), which is named after the first African-American female Master Chief Petty Officer.

McShan served over two decades with great devotion and is remembered as an exemplary leader and professional. She inspired the many she trained, and has been described as a positive, kind and motivational person.

McShan was a stellar performer, mentor teacher, and inspirational leader. She passed away from cancer on Dec. 29, 2000, at age 39, two months after being promoted to Master Chief Petty Officer.

The Master Chief Angela M. McShan Inspirational Leadership Award was established in her memory.

Homeland Security Today

The Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today (HSToday) is the premier news and information resource for the homeland security community, dedicated to elevating the discussions and insights that can support a safe and secure nation. A non-profit magazine and media platform, HSToday provides readers with the whole story, placing facts and comments in context to inform debate and drive realistic solutions to some of the nation’s most vexing security challenges.

See Full Bio