MH-65 Dolphin Makes a Speedy Cannonball Run to Save Patient Amid Rough Weather

A Coast Guard MH-65 deployed aboard the CG Cutter Alex Haley recovered an injured sailor from a fish processing vessel almost 100 miles off the coast of Dutch Harbor, Alaska. 

The 17th District watch station announced the successful recovery, describing the operation that followed a medical evacuation request from America's Finest, a 262-foot fishing vessel. A crew member had sustained serious injuries to his foot 20 miles west of St. George Island, and time was of the essence. The crew hurried back to shore with their charge, ultimately successful in saving him from further harm.  

A Coast Guard HC-130 Hercules launched to support the crew from Air Station Kodiak to provide further support for the operation, enabling a successful recovery. The Guard encountered brisk weather during their hoist, with 30 mph winds gusting to 40 amid 15-foot sea swells coating personnel with freezing spray. 

“So many people contributed to the success of this case,” said petty officer first class Jeffrey Dickey, a watchstander at the 17th District command center. “Thanks to the communication and continuous cooperation between America’s Finest, Alex Haley, command center personnel and the aircrews we were able to get this individual to a higher level of care.” 

FMI: www.uscg.mil