Launch 5

Launch 5 patrols the Hudson River
History
United States
NamePatrolman Walburger
NamesakePatrolman Henry Walburger
OwnerLaunch 5
OperatorLaunch 5; previously New York City Police Department Harbor Unit
RouteJamaica Bay
Ordered1966
BuilderTurecamo Tug
Laid down1966
ChristenedNovember 18, 1966
Refit2002
Noteswww.launch5.com
General characteristics
TypePatrol launch; United States Coast Guard Auxiliary
Displacement25 tons
Length52 feet
PropulsionTwin Caterpillar diesel engines

Launch 5 is a restored NYPD patrol launch presently in use as a United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Facility as well as for volunteer non-profit environmental, public safety and educational work. Launch 5 enjoys a rich history beginning with her construction and dedication in 1966 and continuing to this day including valuable missions and enjoying substantial media exposure. Her crew is a group of volunteers who donate time and money to keep her afloat and to take her to public service.

In addition to being a working vessel, Launch 5 serves as a floating memorial to the officer she was named after, Patrolman Henry Walburger, who was killed in the line of duty in 1964. The vessel goes by both names - Patrolman Walburger and Launch 5. All NYPD Harbor Unit patrol launches are given a numbered designation welded to the outside of the wheelhouse. Patrolman Walburger was assigned No 5. She is 52 feet (16 m) in length, powered by twin diesel engines and weighs 25 tons.