Sitka, Alaska, Sees Another Winter Rescue 

The 17th District Coast Guard station had a banner rescue this week, making another rescue flight to retrieve sailors in danger in the region of Sitka, Alaska. 

Watchstanders at the Sector Juneau Command Center received word that the Glory, a 40-foot fishing vessel, was taking on water about 9 miles south of Sitka. The Coast Guard opted to expedite their arrival through the use of Air Station Sitka's MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter, arriving just after the fishermen had stemmed the source of the flooding. In brisk 41-degree, 55-mph winds, the team dropped a rescue swimmer to assess the vessel from below.

After assessing the extent of the damage, the Guard advised the fishermen to abandon ship in the interest of safety.

With the rescue successful, they retrieved the sailors and returned to station to resume their watch. 

The Jayhawk pilot that flew the operation, Lieutenant Commander Scott Woodcock, said the incident offered sailors another lesson in being smart and prepared. "This successful case highlighted the importance of mariner preparedness, the biggest challenge during this rescue was the severe winds, however, the fishermen were well prepared with good communication equipment and survival gear."

FMI: www.uscg.mil