USCGC Eagle has hosted every Operation Sail event, including the maritime tradition associated with America250.
Operation Sail is a series of international sailing events featuring tall ships and other vessels. Each event culminates in a parade of ships, traditionally in New York Harbor on Independence Day.
The Eagle is a U.S. Coast Guard barque used for training cadets and officers. Its role as the host vessel gives it a ceremonial position within the event, distinct from simply participating as one ship among many.
Operation Sail began in 1964 and returned for major anniversaries, including the United States Bicentennial in 1976 and the War of 1812 bicentennial in 2012. The planned 2026 OpSail is connected with the United States Semiquincentennial.