Coast Guard SAR response involves multi-mission stations, cutters, aircraft and boats linked by communications networks. Training is often conducted to keep the Coast Guard’s crews ready for when duty calls.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by AET1 William Greer
KODIAK, Alaska – A Coast Guard Air Station Sitka MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter aircrew rescue three individuals on the Chilkat River near Haines, Sunday night.
The aircrew arrived on scene at 10:20 p.m. aboard the MH-60 Jayhawk Medium-Range Recovery Helicopter and safely hoisted and transported two adult females and one adult male to awaiting local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel at the Haines airport.
Coast Guard Sector Juneau watchstanders received an agency assistance request from Alaska State Troopers at 8:35 p.m., reporting the three were stranded about 21 nautical miles northwest of Haines.
The three became stranded after capsizing their two kayaks and one raft and losing all of their belongings and gear.
The male, who was stuck on an island and separated from the females, was able to relay information to the search and rescue teams via his satellite communication device.
The aircrew arrived on scene at 10:20 p.m. aboard an MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter and safely hoisted and transported two adult females and one adult male to awaiting local Emergency Medical Services personnel at the Haines airport.
U.S. Coast Guard video.
“The three kayakers were very well prepared,” said Lt. Erik Oredson, an Air Station Sitka pilot. “They were dressed for the water temperature instead of the air temperature, which means they were all wearing dry suits when we made the rescue. They had a solid communication plan and a reliable GPS device to relay their position and call for help and we were able to locate them easily because of these factors. They were in good spirits after we picked them up despite being submerged in near glacial waters and it all boils down to preparing for the worst possible situation.”
No medical injuries were reported.
-USCG-
For more Hlcopters Magazine breaking news, stories, images and videos follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
