The U.S. Coast Guard successfully freed a stranded New York Police Department vessel during an icebreaking operation on the Hudson River, underscoring the critical role of federal maritime patrols during extreme winter conditions. Video footage shows the 65-foot Coast Guard icebreaking tug Hawser cutting through thick river ice to release the NYPD vessel Harbor David near Pier 86 in New York City amid a prolonged cold snap.

The operation was part of the Coast Guard’s annual winter patrols, which are designed to keep key waterways safe, navigable, and free from dangerous ice blockages. Freezing temperatures had caused heavy ice buildup along sections of the Hudson River, trapping smaller vessels and creating potential hazards for commercial traffic, law enforcement operations, and emergency response.

By methodically breaking the surrounding ice, the Hawser restored mobility to the NYPD vessel and ensured continued law enforcement presence on the water. Officials emphasized that these missions are essential for maintaining maritime safety during winter months, particularly in high-traffic urban waterways like those surrounding Manhattan.

Commissioned in 1966, the Hawser is one of several legacy Coast Guard vessels still performing vital missions decades after entering service. While the cutter continues to demonstrate reliability, it is among the aging assets slated for replacement under recent Department of Homeland Security budget initiatives aimed at modernizing the Coast Guard fleet and strengthening operational resilience.

The successful rescue highlights the Coast Guard’s quiet but essential role in supporting local authorities and safeguarding critical infrastructure. As winter conditions persist, icebreaking operations remain a key component of ensuring that America’s waterways stay open, secure, and functional even in the harshest weather.