Coast Guard rescues 3 after boat capsizes near Elizabeth City, N.C.
ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. — The Coast Guard rescued three boaters after their boat capsized in the Pasquotank River Sunday night.
Watchstanders at the Sector North Carolina Command Center were notified that a boat capsized near Whitehall Shores, leaving three boaters stranded in the water. Two of the boaters were not wearing life jackets.
A Station Elizabeth City 29-foot Response Boat – Small crew rescued all three boaters from the water and transported them to the Elizabeth City boat ramp where the boaters had a truck parked.
“The outcome of this case was extremely positive and I applaud the quick response effort by the Station Elizabeth City crew, said Lt. Cmdr. Mark Allen, Chief of Emergency Management & Force Readiness for Sector North Carolina. “These events highlight the importance of always wearing a life jacket while boating, regardless of when or where you are operating.”
The boaters were uninjured and there are no pollution concerns. The owner of the boat has completed salvage efforts.
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Sat, 02 Jul 2022 09:59:41 -0500Coast Guard, partner agencies commence operation to detect, deter illegal passenger vessels on Potomac River, caution public against hiring unlicensed operators 52349487https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCG/bulletins/31eca2f
News Release
U.S. Coast Guard 5th District Public Affairs North D5 Public Affairs North, Baltimore, Md Office: (410) 576-2541
Coast Guard, partner agencies commence operation to detect, deter illegal passenger vessels on Potomac River, caution public against hiring unlicensed operators
BALTIMORE — The Coast Guard, in partnership with the Prince George County Police Department and the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia, commenced a summer-long enforcement and awareness initiative Friday aimed at combating illegal charter and passenger vessel operations in the Maryland-National Capital Region.
The goal of Operation Pier Pressure is to ensure public safety by detecting and deterring illegal passenger vessel operations through a robust on-water presence, education and outreach, termination of unsafe operations, and justified enforcement actions.
While patrolling the waters Friday night, Coast Guard and partner agency members suspended the operation of one illegal passenger vessel and provided safety information and educational outreach to others.
Combating illegal passenger vessel operations is a persistent and dynamic issue the Coast Guard faces throughout the country. Illegal passenger vessels may be dangerously overloaded, operated by an unlicensed and inexperienced individual who is more likely to engage in negligent operations due to a lack of training, lack adequate safety or lifesaving equipment, and fail to comply with vessel maintenance, repair, and construction safety standards.
The Coast Guard urges the public to exercise caution before operating or chartering a vessel.
“It’s important the public be aware of the dangers associated with illegal passenger vessel operations and immediately report signs of illegal operations to the Coast Guard,” said Lt. Cmdr. Sonha Gomez, chief of investigations for Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capital Region. “Not only is it against the law, unlicensed operators and uninspected vessels pose significant risk to passengers and other boaters on our waterways.”
For their safety, paying vessel passengers are asked to consider these key questions:
• Does the vessel have a Coast Guard licensed master aboard?
• Does the vessel have proper documentation and safety equipment aboard?
• Are the master and crew enrolled in a Department of Transportation Drug and Alcohol Testing program?
• If carrying more than six passengers, does the vessel hold a valid Certificate of Inspection issued by the Coast Guard?
Owners and operators of illegal passenger vessels can face maximum civil penalties of $60,000 or more for illegal passenger-for-hire operations and over $100,000 for violating a Coast Guard Captain of the Port Order. Moreover, a violation of a Captain of the Port Order is a felony, punishable by up to six years in prison or fines up to $500,000.
To report illegal operations or for information regarding charter operations or passenger vessel regulations, please contact Coast Guard Sector Maryland-NCR at (410) 576-2693 or D05-SMB-SECTORMD-NCR-INV@uscg.mil. For questions about merchant marine licensing, contact the Coast Guard at 1-888-427-5662 or 1-888-IASKNMC.
Coast Guard rescues 4 from vessel taking on water near Ocean City
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OCEAN CITY, Md. — Coast Guard members rescued four people when their vessel began taking on water 15 miles offshore of Ocean City, Monday.
Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capital Region watchstanders received a distress alert from a Digital Selective Calling feature aboard the fishing vessel Hot Pursuit. After making contact, the captain of the vessel stated the boat was taking on water and didn’t know if the vessel could make it back to port before it sank.
“The distress alert feature on marine radios and GPS’s can be a game changer if it’s properly set up,” said Chief Michael Weelmaa, command duty officer for Sector Maryland-NCR. “In situations like this, every second matters. Follow the instructions for your device before you head out on the water to ensure we’re locked in on your location and can get to you quickly.”
A Coast Guard Station Ocean City 47-foot Motor Life Boat crew was launched to assist. When the crew arrived on scene, they embarked two of the four passengers and stabilized the vessel with dewatering pumps. The Hot Pursuit was escorted to Sunset Marina where it will undergo repairs. No medical concerns were reported.
Coast Guard hosts elected official staff members to demonstrate mission readiness, response capabilities in Delaware Bay
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PHILADELPHIA — Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay hosted Pennsylvania elected official staff members Friday for a mission brief and demonstration of safety and security response capabilities in the Delaware Bay.
“This is an opportunity for us to bring representatives of our elected officials to Philadelphia, and show them our front line missions,” said Capt. Jonathan Theel, commander of Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay and Delaware Bay’s captain of the port. “This tour was intended to familiarize our elected officials with the Coast Guard’s critical role on the Delaware River, highlight our strong local partnerships, and discuss ways to best serve the people living and working in Pennsylvania.”
Staff members toured the base and witnessed an active shooter demonstration held with Pennsylvania State Police personnel, Philadelphia SWAT officers, and members of the Philadelphia Police Department Marine Unit. The drill displayed the agencies’ emergency response capabilities predesigned to keep the Delaware Bay and local communities safe.
Additionally, staff members received mission briefings from Theel and other subject matter experts from the Coast Guard and Mariners’ Advisory Committee.
The Coast Guard plays an essential role in facilitating a safe and efficient maritime transportation system along with our partners at the Maritime Exchange, the Pilot’s Association for The Bay and River Delaware, local towing vessel owner and operators, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Philadelphia District, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), amongst many others.
“The Bay and River Delaware is the heart of this region’s economy,” said Lt. Jordan Marshall, from Sector Delaware Bay’s waterways management division.
Within the state of Pennsylvania, emergency response and security team partnerships ensure the uninterrupted flow of $200 million of commerce a day into the Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware economies.
FINAL: Unified Command completes salvage response to barge fire in Delaware Bay
PORT NORRIS, NJ. — Salvage operations onboard the Barge CMT Y NOT 6 were completed today, removing the vessel from shallow waters off the coast of New Jersey, in the Delaware Bay.
Salvage experts and naval architects developed and implemented a salvage plan to safely assess the condition of the barge after the fire was extinguished, then verified the vessel’s stability and seaworthiness for transit.
The barge was towed today, under Coast Guard escort, to its original destination in Camden, NJ where the scrap metal will be removed from the barge and recycled.
“Thanks to the close collaboration and coordination between the Unified Command, crews were able to stabilize the vessel and minimize impact to the maritime transportation system and environment,” said Capt. Jonathan Theel, the commander of Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay. “Our strong partnerships, particularly with New Jersey, were key to achieving success.”
The Unified Command is comprised of representatives from Eastern Metal Recycling, New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, Cumberland County Office of Emergency Management, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, and U.S. Coast Guard.
“NJDEP thanks members of the Unified Command for their close partnership and work to protect public safety and New Jersey’s coastal resources,” said Robert Van Fossen, Director of Emergency Management, NJDEP.
Coast Guard sets historic Francis Scott Key Memorial Buoy in Patapsco River
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BALTIMORE — The crew aboard the USCGC William Tate (WLM 560) set the historic Francis Scott Key Memorial Buoy Wednesday in the Patapsco River near the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
Formalized as an annual duty in 1980, the 2022 commissioning of the buoy marks the 42nd spring setting of the star-spangled buoy by a Coast Guard cutter.
The specially designed buoy marks the approximate location where Key witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry in 1814 from an American truce ship. Following the Battle of Baltimore, Key witnessed the rising of Fort McHenry’s large garrison flag over the ramparts and was inspired to write lyrics that would later become the U.S. national anthem.
“The buoy commemorates Key, revered author of the poem “Defense of Fort M’Henry,” later retitled “The Star Spangled Banner,” said Lt. Corey Engle, the commanding officer of the William Tate.
Engle added that the buoy commemorates the citizens and soldiers who endured the siege of Baltimore.
The buoy, which sits between the Francis Scott Key Bridge and Fort McHenry, is set each summer and removed just before the winter. The buoy has been an attraction for boaters and tourists for decades.
The crew of the USCGC James Rankin (WLM 555), which is homeported in Baltimore and services more than 450 aids to navigation each year, traditionally sets the buoy but is undergoing a well-deserved maintenance period.
The William Tate is homeported in Philadelphia. The cutter’s crew is responsible for the maintenance of 262 buoys along the Atlantic Coast, Delaware Bay and upper Chesapeake Bay. Additional crew missions include ice breaking, marine environmental protection, and maritime law enforcement.
UPDATE: Unified Command continues response to barge fire in Delaware Bay
BOWERS, Del. — The fire onboard the barge in the Delaware Bay has been extinguished, Tuesday, and Northstar Environmental and Marine Services has been contracted to assess the integrity of the vessel and manage salvage operations.
A Unified Command consisting of representatives from Eastern Metal Recycling, New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, Cumberland County Office of Emergency Management, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, and the U.S. Coast Guard has been established to oversee salvage operations.
A Coast Guard 87-ft Patrol Boat is monitoring the situation and enforcing a safety zone, which is prohibited from entering unless authorized by the Captain of the Port of Delaware Bay. The 500-yard safety zone is being enforced around the barge and Northstar Independence, the contractor’s 185-ft salvage vessel. Should the fire reignite, Northstar Independence has firefighting capabilities onboard.
No sheening or discoloration has been observed on the waterway.
“I want to thank all the responders, especially Fire Chief Aaron Warren, the local fire companies, and Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control who initially responded to this complex and dynamic situation,” said Capt. Jonathan Theel, Sector Delaware Bay Captain of the Port. “The fire is out due to their dedication and adaptability.”
For more information contact District 5 Public Affairs at (757) 295-8435. Additional inquires can be made to uscgD5publicaffairs@gmail.com.
Media Availability: Coast Guard to set historic Francis Scott Key Memorial Buoy in Patapsco River
BALTIMORE — The Coast Guard Cutter William Tate’s crew is scheduled to set the historic Francis Scott Key Memorial Buoy, Wednesday, in the Patapsco River near the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
The specially designed star-spangled buoy marks the approximate location where Key witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry in 1914 from an American truce ship. Following the Battle of Baltimore, Key witnessed the rising of Fort McHenry’s large garrison flag over the ramparts and was inspired to write lyrics that would later become the U.S. national anthem.
The buoy, which sits between the Francis Scott Key Bridge and Fort McHenry, is set every summer and removed just before the winter. The buoy has been an attraction for boaters and tourists for decades.
WHO: The crew aboard the Coast Guard Cutter William Tate, a 175-foot Keeper class buoy tender homeported in Philadelphia.
WHAT: Media is invited to view the Francis Scott Key Memorial Buoy being placed in the Patapsco River where Key wrote the national anthem’s lyrics from aboard an anchored ship during The Battle of Baltimore in 1814.
WHEN: Wednesday, May 25, 2022 at 10 a.m.
WHERE: From aboard the Coast Guard Cutter William Tate, which will depart from The Coast Guard Yard, 2401 Hawkins Point Road, Curtis Bay.
Media interested in viewing the buoy setting from aboard the William Tate must RSVP with Public Affairs Detachment Baltimore by 4 p.m. Tuesday at 757-295-8435 or by e-mailing USCGD5PublicAffairs@gmail.com. Due to limited space aboard the cutter, RSVPs will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis.
Vetted media must arrive at the Coast Guard Yard no later than 9 a.m. for base parking and access to the cutter.
Coast Guard and local fire agencies respond to barge fire in Delaware Bay
BOWERS, Del. — The Coast Guard and local fire agencies are responding to a barge fire approximately 9 miles south of Port Mahon, Monday morning.
Watchstanders at the Sector Delaware Bay Command Center received a call at approximately 1 a.m. reporting a barge on fire in the Delaware River. The barge was reportedly carrying household appliances for scrap.
The Coast Guard launched a 29-foot Response Boat-Small boatcrew to assist and continue to monitor the situation. There are six fire boats on scene from local fire agencies actively fighting the fire.
“Our highest priority is ensuring the safety of firefighters and response personnel on scene,” said Capt. Jonathan Theel, Sector Delaware Bay Captain of the Port. “We will also work to mitigate any environmental threats and protect the flow of commerce within this vital port.”
There are no injuries and no evidence of pollution impacting the waterway. The cause of the fire is not known at this time.
The Coast Guard requests that all mariners avoid the area of the incident.
For more information contact District 5 Public Affairs at (757) 295-8435. Additional inquiries can be made to uscgD5publicaffairs@gmail.com.
Coast Guard forces participate in joint exercise off Delaware, Maryland coast
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BALTIMORE — The U.S. Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, and the Marines conducted a routine search and rescue exercise off the coasts of Delaware and Maryland, Tuesday.
The exercise simulated an aircraft incident, the need to search for and rescue crew, and respond to debris in the water.
The purpose of the exercise was first, to further interoperability and the ability to communicate quickly, coordinate resources, and collaborate to respond to emergencies. Secondly, to test and provide realistic feedback on existing policies, plans, procedures, and agreements with the Coast Guard and partner Department of Defense units within the U.S. Coast Guard Fifth District’s area of responsibility.
“Any opportunity to train with our DOD counterparts will always be a valuable one,” said Lt. Andrew Hallock, lead Coast Guard planner and controller for the exercise. “In this case, we were able to pool our resources and expertise in this simulated search and rescue case to effect a positive outcome. We learn so much from seeing how each other operates and really get a feel for our partner service’s culture in these situations, but one thing we share universally is a dedication to the preservation of life.”
“This annual search and rescue exercise allows us to join our DOD and Coast Guard counterparts in evaluation of our ability to work together and respond to a real-world incident requiring joint service response,” said Lt. Geoffrey Fries, Search and Rescue Officer assigned to the U.S. Navy Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 2. “In today’s environment, situations like this with increasing levels of complexity, having a partner like the Coast Guard, with such specialized search and rescue knowledge and experience can save lives. The coordination shown between these agencies gives us all confidence in the event of a real-world emergency. I have been thoroughly impressed with the professionalism and competency of the Coast Guard. We look forward to future operations between services.”
Some of the participating units included:
U.S. Fleet Forces Command
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
Naval Air Station Patuxent River
2nd Fleet Battle Watch
Marine Aircraft Group 14
Air Force Rescue Coordination Center
Some of the participating assets included:
Coast Guard Cutter Rollin Fritch, a 154-foot Fast Response Cutter
Coast Guard Cutter Bonito, an 87-foot Coastal Patrol Boat
A 47-foot Motor Life Boat from Coast Guard Station Indian River Inlet
An MH-65 Dolphin from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City
An MH-60 Jayhawk from Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City
An HC-130J Hercules from Air Station Elizabeth City
A Navy H-60 Seahawk
An FA-18 Super Hornet
The previous year’s exercise took place off Cape Lookout, North Carolina coast, testing the satellite notification system, stressing internal and external communications plans, and safely recovering two simulated downed aviators using Coast Guard and Navy aircraft.
Joint military exercise to take place off Delaware, Maryland coast
BALTIMORE — The U.S. Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, and the Marines will be conducting a routine search and rescue exercise off the coasts of Delaware and Maryland Tuesday.
The exercise will simulate an aircraft incident, the need to search for and rescue crew, and respond to debris in the water. This is an annual exercise. In the case of inclement weather, the activity will shift to Thursday.
Mariners are advised to avoid or use extreme caution while transiting in the exercise area. The exercise center point will be 38-14.961N 074-52.299W, approximately 23 miles east of Ocean City, Maryland. Additional active exercise location information for mariners will be available in the latest Broadcast Notice to Mariners on VHF-FM Channel 16.
Additionally, mariners are asked not to disturb any debris or participants involved physically. The exercise will include the recovery of in-water objects, low-flying aircraft, helicopter hoists, use of flares, and mass search and rescue operations.
The purpose of the exercise is two-fold first, to further interoperability and the ability to communicate quickly, coordinate resources, and collaborate to respond to emergencies.
Secondly, to test and provide realistic feedback on existing policies, plans, procedures, and agreements with the Coast Guard and partner Department of Defense units within the U.S. Coast Guard Fifth District’s area of responsibility.
Mariners who need to contact members of the exercise as it takes place may reach safety vessel personnel on VHF-FM Channel 16.
The 2021 exercise took place off Cape Lookout, N.C. coast, testing the satellite notification system, stressing internal and external communications plans, and safely recovering two simulated downed aviators using Coast Guard and Navy aircraft.
Coast Guard rescues 2 after sailboat grounds in breaking surf near Little Egg Inlet, New Jersey
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ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The Coast Guard rescued two people Friday night after their 33-foot sailing vessel, Free Bird, grounded and overturned near Little Egg Inlet.
A person aboard Free Bird used a VHF-FM marine radio Friday at about 8 p.m. to hail Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay watchstanders and report that they grounded in shoals and began heeling over while heading south toward Atlantic City.
An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City, along with rescue boatcrews from Coast Guard Stations Atlantic City and Barnegat Light, responded to the call for help.
When Coast Guard responders arrived on the scene, they quickly located the Free Bird hard aground and on its side in breaking surf with both people aboard. Due to the shallow waters surrounding the vessel, the aircrew initiated hoisting the people.
“With high winds, driving rain and thunderstorms in the area, our aircrew worked to quickly lower the rescue swimmer to help the couple,” said Lt. Humberto Hernandez, a pilot who flew on the rescue. “Our swimmer was able to walk in the shallow breaking surf to the Free Bird and assist the people away from the vessel to facilitate a safer hosting situation, away from the overturned vessel’s mast.”
With each survivor safely hoisted into the aircraft, they returned to the air station and transferred to awaiting emergency medical personnel. Both people are reportedly in good condition and will coordinate salvage plans for their vessel.
The Coast Guard reminds all mariners that having reliable communication aboard your vessel can be the difference between life and death in an emergency. A VHF-FM marine radio is the best way to alert the Coast Guard to an emergency, especially on the water, where cell phone connectivity and weather are often unpredictable.
Coast Guard suspends search for person in the water Delaware River
PHILADELPHIA — The Coast Guard has suspended the search for a 30-year-old man in the Delaware River in the vicinity of Central Waterfront, Saturday.
The Coast Guard searched a total of 87 square miles over the course of 3.5 hours.
Watchstanders from Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay received the initial report from the master of the 590-foot Singapore-flagged bulk carrier Weco Josefine at approximately 7 a.m. that a crew member was no longer on the vessel.
It was stated that the man was last accounted for on the cargo ship between 5:12 a.m and 6:30 a.m., after the vessel had already left the port.
Assets that searched are:
A 29-foot Response Boat-Small II boatcrew from Coast Guard Station Philadelphia is currently searching.
An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City, New Jersey also searched the scene.
Coast Guard searching for person in the water in Delaware River
PHILADELPHIA — The Coast Guard is currently searching for a 30-year-old man in the Delaware River in the vicinity of Central Waterfront, Saturday.
A 29-foot Response Boat-Small II boatcrew from Coast Guard Station Philadelphia is currently searching.
Watchstanders from Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay received a report from the master of the 590-foot Singapore-flagged bulk carrier Weco Josefine at approximately 7 a.m. that a crew member was no longer on the vessel.
It was stated that the man was last accounted for on the cargo ship between 5:12 a.m and 6:30 a.m., after the vessel had already left the port.
The individual is described as Asian nationality, 5 feet, 10 inches tall and 130 pounds.
An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City, New Jersey also searched the scene.
The weather conditions are reportedly sunny with a high temperature of 59 degrees Fahrenheit and winds of 10 to 20 mph. The water temperature in the Delaware River this time of year is around 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Container ship grounded in Chesapeake Bay refloated following 35-day salvage operation
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BALTIMORE — The U.S. Coast Guard, Maryland Department of the Environment and Evergreen Marine Corporation, in partnership with multiple state and local responders, refloated the Ever Forward Sunday, following a 35-day-long salvage operation that began Sunday, March 13, after the 1,095-foot container ship grounded in the Chesapeake Bay near Craighill Channel.
Refloating the Ever Forward, which was hard aground outside of the navigation channel along the entire length of the ship’s hull, required extensive coordination of responders and involved the development and implementation of a comprehensive salvage plan, including dredging and push and pull tugboat operations.
Following two unsuccessful refloat attempts on March 29 and 30, salvage experts determined they would not be able to overcome the ground force of the Ever Forward in its loaded condition, with 4,964 containers aboard.
Dredging was completed to a depth of 43 feet, resulting in 206,280 cubic yards of material being dredged and taken to Poplar Island. The material is being used to offset erosion at the Paul S. Sarbanes Ecosystem Restoration project.
Operations to remove 500 containers with crane barges ran from April 9 through 16.
For safety and balance purposes, containers from both the port and starboard sides of the ship were removed and placed on receiving barges during daylight hours only. These containers were then taken to their original onboarding facility, Seagirt Marine Terminal in Baltimore, and offloaded by shore-based handling gear.
After the containers were removed, two pulling barges, two tugs from Donjon-SMIT, two tugs from Moran, and two tugs from McAllister freed the Ever Forward at approximately 7 a.m.
“The vastness and complexity of this response were historic, as an incident like the Ever Forward grounding, in type and duration, is a rare occurrence,” said Capt. David O’Connell, commander of Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capital Region. “It was the collaboration of each responding agency, Evergreen Marine Corporation, and dedicated responders that resulted in the successful refloating of Ever Forward while ensuring the safety of the public and response personnel, mitigating pollution potential, and minimizing economic impacts.”
Throughout the operation, extensive steps have been taken to protect the environment. Fuel tanks on the ship were regularly monitored, and equipment, including the containment boom, was pre-staged for rapid deployment in the event of a fuel release. Special conditions in an emergency wetlands license issued by the state of Maryland for dredging include a requirement for the licensee, Donjon-SMIT, to assess the dredge and vessel grounding area for impacts to a natural oyster bar in the area, provide a report to the Maryland Department of the Environment after the vessel’s removal and then develop a plan for any mitigation determined to be required for impacts to that oyster bar.
“We appreciate the steady partnership with the Coast Guard, Evergreen Marine Corporation and all the other agencies that worked to prevent pollution and protect the Chesapeake Bay,” said Maryland Environment Secretary Ben Grumbles. “We remain focused on moving forward to the environmental restoration and compensation phase.”
The Ever Forward, a Hong-Kong flagged container ship, had departed Baltimore Sunday, March 13, when it ran aground. The ship will be towed to the Annapolis Anchorage Grounds for inspection. It will reload the containers that had been removed and continue its voyage to its next port of call in Norfolk, Virginia.
In a corporate statement, Evergreen Line representatives stated, “We are deeply appreciative of the efforts put forth by the U.S. Coast Guard, Maryland Port Administration, local and federal Environmental Protection Agencies, and the many private service providers that were engaged, all of whom worked tirelessly to bring this event to a successful conclusion.”
Coast Guard aircrew medevacs man from fishing vessel off New Jersey coast
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The Coast Guard medevaced a 46-year-old man from the fishing vessel Captain John Wednesday approximately 45 miles east of Point Pleasant.
Another crewmember aboard the Captain John used a marine radio to notify Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay watchstanders of the medical emergency at about 5:30 p.m.
Watchstanders consulted the duty flight surgeon who recommended a medevac. The Coast Guard then immediately launched an MH-65 Dolphin Helicopter crew from Air Station Atlantic City.
Additionally, a 47-foot Motor Lifeboat crew from Coast Guard Station Barnegat Light deployed to provide additional support.
The man was safely medevaced at about 6:30 p.m. and taken to Air Station Atlantic City where his care was transferred to awaiting emergency medical services personnel.
Communication is key on the water. Having a VHF marine radio is the most reliable way to alert the Coast Guard to emergencies at sea. For more information on marine radios, please visit the U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Center.
Revised strategy for EVER FORWARD refloat announced by recovery effort Unified Command
BALTIMORE — The U.S. Coast Guard, Maryland Department of the Environment and Evergreen Marine Corporation, in partnership with multiple state and local responders, have developed and announced a revised strategy to refloat the container ship EVER FORWARD effective immediately.
Salvage experts determined they would not be able to overcome the ground force of the EVER FORWARD in its current loaded condition. The new strategy offers the best chance of successfully re-floating the EVER FORWARD.
The previously announced dredging will continue to a depth of 43 feet and shipping containers will now be removed as soon as the installation of two crane barges, with suitable lift heights to remove containers, are installed.
The containers will be removed in daylight hours only for safety purposes from both the port and starboard sides and placed on receiving barges. Then, these barges will shuttle the containers back to their original onboarding facility, Seagrit Marine Terminal in Baltimore, where they will be offloaded by shore-based handling gear.
Once the containers are removed, tugs and pull barges will attempt another refloat. The shipping channel will remain open to one way traffic during these operations, any changes will be announced via normal maritime means. All aspects of the operation should take approximately two weeks, however that timeline may change based on weather conditions and other variables outside of the control of the Unified Command.
A 500-yard safety zone around the ship in the Chesapeake Bay will continue for the duration of the operation and the adjacent shipping channel will remain unaffected. The zone has been established to provide for the safety of persons involved in the salvage operation as well as the integrity of the marine environment.
Ensuring the ship’s stability and monitoring for any signs of pollution continue to be top priorities for the Unified Command and responders. In addition to regular soundings of fuel and ballast tanks, a naval architect and salvage master are remotely monitoring a recently installed sensor system to constantly evaluate the ship’s stability and integrity and will continue to do so throughout the refloat operation. They will also continue to conduct regular visits to the ship.
Mariners are requested to monitor VHF channel 16 for the latest information.
The EVER FORWARD salvage operation began Sunday, March 13 after the 1,095-foot container ship grounded in the Chesapeake Bay near Craighill Channel.
Chesapeake Bay safety zone for EVER FORWARD response to be extended Tuesday for refloat operations
BALTIMORE — The U.S. Coast Guard, Maryland Department of the Environment and Evergreen Marine Corporation, in partnership with multiple state and local responders, will make an initial attempt to refloat the container ship EVER FORWARD Tuesday at noon following more than a week of dredging operations.
Weather conditions at the end of last week resulted in a slight delay in the operations from the originally anticipated refloat schedule.
During Tuesday’s refloat attempt, the current 500-yard safety zone around the ship in the Chesapeake Bay will be temporarily extended to 1,000 yards, closing the navigation channel to commercial traffic to provide for the safety of persons and the marine environment.
The expanded temporary safety zone will be enforced from noon Tuesday through midnight on March 29.
The public should anticipate one-way traffic at a reduced safe speed to resume at midnight or at the discretion of the Captain of the Port following the refloat attempt.
Ensuring the ship’s stability, and monitoring for potential pollution continue to be top priorities of the unified command and responders. In addition to regular soundings of fuel and ballast tanks, a naval architect is currently aboard EVER FORWARD constantly monitoring and evaluating the ship’s stability, and will continue to do so during the refloat operation.
If required, additional dredging operations will commence and a second attempt to refloat the EVER FORWARD would then be expected to occur on or about Sunday.
Mariners are requested to monitor VHF channel 16 for the latest information.
The EVER FORWARD salvage operation began Sunday, March 13 after the 1,095-foot container ship grounded in the Chesapeake Bay near Craighill Channel.
Coast Guard continues response to grounded container ship in Chesapeake Bay
BALTIMORE — The Coast Guard continues to respond Tuesday to the grounding of the 1,095-foot container ship Ever Forward, which grounded Sunday night in the Chesapeake Bay near Craighill Channel.
Coast Guard responders are working closely with personnel from the Maryland Department of the Environment to monitor the container ship, investigate how the ship grounded, and develop a plan to safely refloat the ship.
A Captain of the Port Order has been issued by the Coast Guard requiring the vessel’s crew to conduct soundings of all tanks, bilges, and voids every four hours to monitor potential pollution and report any noticeable change in stability, draft readings, vessel position, or signs of an oil discharge.
Additionally, the Coast Guard is enforcing a 500-yard safety zone around the Ever Forward to ensure the safety of those on and around the vessel as well as the safety of the marine environment during ongoing salvage operations.
The Ever Forward is not currently obstructing the navigational channel, however, vessels operating in the vicinity are still required to conduct one-way traffic and transit at a reduced speed.
There are no reports of injuries, pollution, or damage to the vessel as a result of the grounding.
The Hong-Kong flagged container ship, reported to be carrying general cargo, departed Baltimore Sunday and was en route to Norfolk, Virginia, when it grounded.
Coast Guard coordinates refloating of grounded cargo vessel in Chesapeake Bay
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BALTIMORE — The Coast Guard and Maryland Department of the Environment are coordinating the refloating of motor vessel Ever Forward, a 1,095-foot container vessel that grounded in the Chesapeake Bay, near Craighill Channel.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capital Region received the initial report at 9 p.m., Sunday, from the vessel. Initial reports indicated no injuries, pollution, or damage to the vessel as a result of the grounding.
Coast Guard watchstanders have issued a Safety Marine Information Broadcast to mariners in the area stating that a safety zone will be in place during salvage operations. Currently, the Ever Forward is not obstructing the navigational channel; however, vessels operating in the vicinity will be required to conduct one-way traffic and transit at a reduced speed.
Coast Guard rescues overdue boater near Barnegat Inlet, N.J.
OCEAN COUNTY, N.J. — The Coast Guard rescued an 80-year-old man from a 16-foot boat that ran aground near Barnegat Inlet, Monday.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay received a report from the son of the overdue boater stating that his father had not returned home at sunset. The son also informed watchstanders that his father departed without communication devices, having only a life jacket and whistle onboard his vessel.
Coast Guard members from Station Barnegat Light and Air Station Atlantic City along with a New Jersey State police aviation unit responded to the report. New Jersey State Police located the man and the Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew hoisted him to safety, transporting him to Island Beach State Park where EMS was standing by.
“This case really emphasized the importance of letting someone know your whereabouts before you get underway,” said Cmdr. Brett Workman, Sector Delaware Bay Search and Rescue Mission Coordinator. “The family knew where he was departing from, where he planned to go, and when he was expected to return. Since his family knew his float plan, we knew where to look, and were ultimately able to locate and rescue him. In addition to letting someone know your float plan, it is always recommended that mariners have reliable means of communication when they are on the water.”
Coast Guard suspends search for passengers of downed aircraft near Drum Inlet, North Carolina
MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. – The Coast Guard has suspended the search for the passengers of a downed aircraft approximately 4 miles east of Drum Inlet. Tuesday afternoon.
Watchstanders at the Coast Guard Sector North Carolina command center received a report at 2:13 p.m. Sunday, of a possible downed aircraft from an air traffic controller at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point informing that the aircraft was seen behaving erratically on radar and then disappeared from the radar screen.
A total of 8 people were aboard the Pilatus PC-12 single engine passenger aircraft. The Coast Guard searched 2,014 square miles over a period of 48 hours.
“The Coast Guard will continue to work alongside our local partners through ongoing recovery operations. Our deepest sympathies are with the Down East community,” said Capt. Matt Baer, sector commander, Sector North Carolina. “We are grateful for the outstanding collaboration we have had with our state and local partners, as well as numerous volunteers.”
Involved in the search were:
Coast Guard Cutter Rollin Fritch
Coast Guard Cutter Richard Snyder
Coast Guard HC-130 Hercules aircraft
Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk
Coast Guard Station Fort Macon Motor Lifeboat
Coast Guard Station Hatteras Inlet Response Boat-Small
National Park Service beach crews
Towboat U.S.
Carteret County Sheriff’s Office
Carteret County Emergency Services
Down East Fire Department
Morehead City Fire Department
Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point units
The Coast Guard Cutter Richard Snyder will assist local law enforcement with recovery efforts. The National Transportation Safety Board will be conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the incident.
Coast Guard rescues 3 mariners from grounded pleasure craft near the entrance of Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey
Editors’ Note: Click on images to download high resolution version.
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – The Coast Guard rescued three mariners from a grounded pleasure craft near the entrance of Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, on Sunday.
Watchstanders at the Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay command center received a report via VHF channel 16 from the 36-foot pleasure craft Phyllis II stating that the vessel ran aground near the entrance to Little Egg Harbor.
Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay dispatched a 29-foot Response Boat Small –II boatcrew from Coast Guard Station Atlantic City to the scene. The boatcrew was unable to approach the Phyllis II due to low tide.
An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City was launched to the scene. The aircrew hoisted the three mariners and transported them to Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City.
“Situations like this emphasize the importance of using Channel 16 as an effective way to seek help in times of distress,” said Chief Petty Officer Charles Osenbach, the command duty officer in the Sector Delaware Bay command center, “We encourage mariners to be prepared at all times when on the water.”
Who: Lt. Katherine Webb and Petty Officer 1st Class Donald Abey
What: A media event communicating the dangers of colder water temperatures and the precautions boaters should take to prevent injury or death.
When: Dec 15 at 9:30 a.m. Interested media should contact Lt. Webb at 252-489-0295 by 6 p.m., Dec. 14 to facilitate access.
Where: Coast Guard Station Curtis Bay, 2401 Hawkins Point Road, Bldg 37, Baltimore, MD 21226
BALTIMORE — As temperatures drop along the mid-Atlantic coast, the Coast Guard urges all boaters to prepare for the water temperature, rather than the air temperature.
Hypothermia occurs as your body temperature falls below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The average water temp along the mid-Atlantic during the winter months is 53 degrees Fahrenheit, which can cause unconsciousness in about an hour and estimated survivability is between one and six hours.
A Coast Guard spokesperson will be available speak to the following topics:
Dress for the water, not the weather. Warmer days during late fall, winter, and spring can deceive boaters into thinking that the water temperature is warm, just because the air may be. Water temperatures at 70 degrees or below can cause hypothermia.
Check the water temperatures, if they are anywhere near 70 degrees, wear a wetsuit, drysuit, float coat or some sort of waterproof, insulated gear.
Roughly 20 percent of people who fall into cold water die within the first minute due to cold-water shock. Cold-water shock causes an involuntary gasp and an immediate loss in breath control, which increases the risk of sudden drowning.
Wearing a life jacket can keep you afloat, and can make you more visible. Even the strongest swimmers lose muscle control after 10 minutes of being exposed to cold water, making it nearly impossible to locate and put on a life jacket after-the-fact. Sportsmen who fish or hunt during this time of year should be aware that the warmth of waders is not a replacement for the buoyancy of life jackets. For a video PSA on this topic,click here.
File a float plan. Letting people know when and where you are going, and when you are expected to be back, exponentially increases the odds of being rescued if something unfortunate happens. You can create a float plan quickly and easily on the U.S. Coast Guard’s official app for smartphones.
PHILADELPHIA — As temperatures drop along the mid-Atlantic coast, the Coast Guard urges all boaters to prepare for the water temperature, rather than the air temperature.
Hypothermia occurs as your body temperature falls below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The average water temp along the mid-Atlantic during the winter months is 53 degrees Fahrenheit, which can cause unconsciousness in about an hour with an estimated survivability between one and six hours.
A Coast Guard spokesperson will be available speak to the following topics:
Dress for the water, not the weather. Warmer days during late fall, winter, and spring can deceive boaters into thinking that the water temperature is warm, just because the air may be. Water temperatures at 70 degrees or below can cause hypothermia.
Check the water temperatures, if they are anywhere near 70 degrees, wear a wetsuit, drysuit, float coat or some sort of waterproof, insulated gear.
Roughly 20 percent of people who fall into cold water die within the first minute due to cold-water shock. Cold-water shock causes an involuntary gasp and an immediate loss in breath control, which increases the risk of sudden drowning.
Wearing a life jacket can keep you afloat, and can make you more visible. Even the strongest swimmers lose muscle control after 10 minutes of being exposed to cold water, making it nearly impossible to locate and put on a life jacket after-the-fact. Sportsmen who fish or hunt during this time of year should be aware that the warmth of waders is not a replacement for the buoyancy of life jackets. For a video PSA on this topic, click here.
File a float plan. Letting people know when and where you are going, and when you are expected to be back, exponentially increases the odds of being rescued if something unfortunate happens. You can create a float plan quickly and easily on the U.S. Coast Guard’s official app for smartphones.
UPDATE: Coast Guard suspends search for person in the water in Baltimore Harbor, Baltimore
Editors’ Note: Click on images to download high resolution version.
BALTIMORE — The Coast Guard has suspended the search for a man who was seen entering Baltimore Harbor, Saturday.
The Baltimore County Fire Department received the initial notification from the Canopy by Hilton Baltimore Harbor Point hotel security that they witnessed the person enter the water.
Watchstanders from Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capitol Region command center launched a 29-foot Response Boat-Small II boatcrew from Coast Guard Station Curtis Bay, Maryland and an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City, New Jersey.
The Coast Guard searched a total of 16 square miles over the course of approximately 7 hours.
The Maryland State Police Department and the Baltimore County Fire Department also searched.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the individual,” said Senior Chief Petty Officer Michael Acosta, the command duty officer from Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capitol Region. “We would like to thank our partners who assisted in the search this morning, and also take the time to stress the importance of proper cold water gear while in or around the water during colder months.”
INITIAL: Coast Guard, partner agencies searching for person in the water in Baltimore Harbor, Baltimore
BALTIMORE — The Coast Guard and partner agencies are searching for a person in the water after he was last seen entering the water in the Inner Harbor of Baltimore.
The Baltimore County Fire Department received the initial notification from the Canopy by Hilton Baltimore Harbor Point hotel security that they witnessed the person enter the water.
The person is described as a medium build African American adult male wearing a black and white jacket and jeans.
Watchstanders from Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capitol Region command center launched a 29-foot Response Boat-Small II boatcrew from Coast Guard Station Curtis Bay, Maryland and an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City, New Jersey.
Also searching are the Maryland State Police Department and the Baltimore County Fire Department.
Coast Guard: Waders will not save your life. Life jackets will. VIDEO: Public Service Announcement available
Editors’ Note: The image above is a screen shot of a one-minute Public Service Announcement demonstrating the benefit of wearing a life jacket while wearing waders. Click the image to download a high-resolution version of the PSA.
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — As temperatures continue to fall across the Mid-Atlantic, the Coast Guard would like to remind you that waders are not a substitute for life jackets.
Waders are great at keeping you warm and dry, but if you fall into the water they can act as an anchor, making a precarious situation much more dangerous if not paired with a life jacket.
Coast Guard-approved life jackets can be worn over waders and will allow you valuable time to get to safety if you happen to end up in the water. In 2020, 75% of victims from boating accidents drowned as a result. Of that 75%, 86% were not wearing life jackets.
“Whether you’re fishing or hunting, on land or by boat, the most important thing you can bring with you is a life jacket,” said Lt. Cmdr. Katherine Blue, Coast Guard Fifth District Public Affairs Officer. “We see it time and time again. A good day out on the water can turn bad very quickly. Having a life jacket on makes our job easier and increases your chance of getting back home to your loved ones.”
Coast Guard searches for missing fisherman near Cobb Island, Maryland
COBB ISLAND, Md. — The Coast Guard is searching for a missing fisherman in the vicinity of Cobb Island on the Potomac River, Thursday morning.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capital Region received a report Wednesday evening from the Charles County Fire Department of an overdue fisherman.
A Response Boat-Medium boatcrew was launched from Coast Guard Station St. Inigoes along with an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City.
The following partner agencies also launched to assist with search efforts:
Maryland State Troopers
Maryland Natural Resources Police
Cobb Island Fire Department
St. Mary’s County Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue
Towboat Cobb Island
After launching, Towboat Cobb Island crewmembers located the fisherman’s vessel aground on the shoreline of Westmoreland County, Virginia.
Coast Guard Cutter Bonito was launched to further assist with search efforts along with a Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew, and Naval Air Station Patuxent River aircrews.
Any person with information that could assist search efforts can contact the Sector Maryland-National Capital Region Command Center at 410-576-2525.
U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area Contact: Ensign Daniel Peveler Office: (757) 483-6521 Atlantic Area News Online
USCGC Legare (WMEC 912) returns home from 61-day counter-narcotic deployment
Editors’ Note: To view more or download high-resolution imagery, click on the photos above.
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The crew of USCGC Legare (WMEC 912) returned home Thursday after an eight-week counter-narcotics patrol in the Eastern Pacific in support of Joint Interagency Task Force South and the Coast Guard 11th District.
The crew patrolled over 12,650 nautical miles through the heart of the Eastern Pacific Ocean in support of Campaign Martillo working in conjunction with Customs and Border Protection, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partnering nations.
With the assistance of an embarked Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron aviation detachment from Jacksonville, Fla., and a two-person Law Enforcement Detachment Team from San Diego, Legare’s team was successful in the interdiction of over 1,300 lbs. of illegal narcotics worth an estimated street value of more than $24.6 million.
En route to the Eastern Pacific Ocean, Legare also stood by to support the Coast Guard’s 1st District in the Northeast following hurricane Henri and assisted in transferring two migrants in support of the 7th District in the Southeast.
Cmdr. Malcolm Belt, commanding officer, stated, “I’m extremely proud of the Legare crew, and our HITRON aviation detachment for the perseverance demonstrated during this patrol. Despite significant equipment failures and logistics hurdles experienced this patrol for both our helicopter and the cutter, the crew always rose to the occasion to ensure we stayed mission effective.”
Campaign Martillo is a U.S., European, and Western Hemisphere effort targeting illicit trafficking routes in international waters within the Western Hemisphere. Joint Interagency Task Force South, a component of U.S. Southern Command, leads U.S. military participation.
The Legare is a 270-foot Famous-class medium endurance cutter homeported in Portsmouth, under the command of U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area. Based in Portsmouth, Virginia, U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area oversees all Coast Guard operations east of the Rocky Mountains to the Arabian Gulf. Also, they allocate ships to deploy to the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific to combat transnational organized crime and illicit maritime activity.
*Media Availability – B-roll and photos available* Coast Guard Cutter Healy arrives in Baltimore
Editors Note: Click on images to download high resolution version.
* For B-roll of the Healy’s arrival, click here.
Who: Credentialed media with proof of vaccination
What: Tour the Coast Guard polar icebreaker USCGC Healy and interview a crewmember
Where: Baltimore Cruise Ship Terminal in Locust Point: 2001 E McComas Street, Baltimore, Maryland
When: Tour begins3 p.m.,Thursday. Media are required to RSVP by 10 a.m., Thursday.
·Media are asked to arrive no later than 2:45 p.m. for a brief before boarding the ship.
·Media should RSVP by calling (757) 295-8435.
·Media must show proof of vaccination and wear a KN95 mask to board the ship.
What will I see? Media will get a 30 minute tour of the 420-foot icebreaker by the crew. The tour will explain the ships mission, capabilities, history and recent transit through the Northwest Passage.
BALTIMORE—The Coast Guard Cutter Healy (WAGB 20) arrived in Baltimore for a port call following its recent transit of the Arctic’s Northwest Passage, Wednesday morning.
Credentialed media are invited to a rare opportunity to tour a Coast Guard polar ice breaker during its port call in Baltimore. Media interested in attending must RSVP by 10 a.m. Media are asked to arrive at the Locust Point cruise ship terminal no later than 2:45 p.m. to get a brief before boarding the vessel, show credentials and proof of vaccination.
Healy is one of the Coast Guard’s polar-capable icebreakers and operates as a multi-mission vessel to protect American interests in the Arctic region. The Healy crew most recently conducted a port call in Boston, Massachusetts, where the crew took part in a joint event along with representatives of the Coast Guard and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, to announce the discovery of the wreckage of the U.S. Revenue Cutter Bear, which was discovered in October 2021 south of Sable Island.
The Healy has a longstanding tie to the Bear, as the Healy was named after a captain of the Bear who served from 1886-1895, known as “Hell Roaring Mike” Healy. In 1999 the Healy was commissioned and named in his honor.
The USRC Bear, like the Healy, was a ship that conducted service in the Arctic region in the 19th and 20th century. It was built in Scotland in 1874 as a steamer ship and purchased by the U.S. government in 1884 for service in the U.S. Navy as part of the rescue fleet for the Greely Expedition to the Arctic, which gave world-wide acclaim as the vessel that rescued the few survivors of that disastrous expedition. In 1885, the Bear was transferred from the Treasury Department for service in the Arctic as a Revenue Cutter and for 41 years it patrolled the Arctic performing search and rescue, law enforcement operations, conducting censuses of people and ships, recording geological and astronomical information, recording tides and escort whaling ships. During World War II, the Bear served during the Greenland Patrols and participated in the capture of a German spy vessel, the trawler Buskoe. It was decommissioned in 1944 and was lost at sea while being towed in 1963.
For nearly two decades, NOAA Ocean Exploration, the NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries’ Maritime Heritage Program, the U.S. Coast Guard Research and Development center, and a number of academic research partners have been engaged in a search for the final resting place of U.S. Revenue Cutter Bear.
For more information, please visit NOAA’s Ocean Exploration website.
U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area Contact: Coast Guard Atlantic Area Public Affairs Office: (757) 398-6521 After Hours: (757) 641-0763 Atlantic Area online newsroom
U.S. Coast Guard commissions Sentinel-class cutter named for enlisted hero, NFL great Emlen Tunnell
Editors’ Note: To view more or download high-resolution imagery, click on the photos above. To view or download broll videos from the commissioning and crew visit to Tunnell’s hometown visit us on VIMEO.
PHILADELPHIA — The U.S. Coast Guard commissioned the USCGC Emlen Tunnell (WPC 1145), Patrol Forces Southwest Asia’s fourth 154-foot Sentinel-class cutter, into service at Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia Friday.
Adm. Karl Schultz, commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, will preside over the ceremony. Ms. Yvonne Gilmore Jordan, the eldest first cousin to Tunnell, is the ship’s sponsor.
“We are so thankful to the Coast Guard for this incredible honor. I can’t internalize the perils Emlen, and his shipmates endured. Emlen didn’t want anyone calling him a hero, but the Coast Guard said yes, he is. As a relative, it is a privilege to be a participant in this commissioning as the Coast Guard Cutter Emlen Tunnell is placed into service,” said Jordan.

The cutter’s namesake is Steward’s Mate 1st Class Emlen Tunnell, a native of Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, who served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1943 to 1946. During this time, he rescued two shipmates. The first was aboard the USS Etamin at anchor in Papua New Guinea in 1944. When a crewman became engulfed in flame following a Japanese torpedo attack, he beat out the fire, sustaining burns, and carried him to safety.
The second rescue came aboard the USCGC Tampa in 1946 when a shipmate fell overboard off Newfoundland. Tunnell risked the 32-degree Fahrenheit water suffering shock and exposure to save him. The U.S. Coast Guard awarded the Silver Lifesaving Medal to Tunnell posthumously for his heroism.
“What really defined Emlen was his character, that selflessness. It was who he was as a human being,” said Schultz. “When this cutter sailed unexpectedly to avoid tropical storm Elsa, Coast Guardsmen who are going to shape the future chapters of the Emlen Tunnell story stepped to the plate, as Emlen did years ago. Maybe not with as many heroics, but they did what Coasties do. They jumped into the breach.”
Tunnell was also a lauded athlete beginning in high school and then college before he joined the Service. While in the Coast Guard, he played football and basketball, and upon his departure, he resumed college. Tunnell went on to play professional football for the New York Giants and the Green Bay Packers. He also served as an assistant coach for the Giants. Notably, Tunnell is the first African American to play for the N.Y. Giants, African American talent scout, and African American full-time assistant coach. He is also the first African American inducted into the Pro-Football Hall of Fame. 

The Emlen Tunnell was officially delivered to the U.S. Coast Guard on July 1 in Key West, Florida. It is the 45th Sentinel-class fast response cutter. Each of these cutters carries the name of a U.S. Coast Guard enlisted hero. While the ship commissioned in Philadelphia, it will homeport in Manama, Bahrain, part of U.S. Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia. The crew will transit to homeport alongside their sister ship, the USCGC Glen Harris (WPC 1144), later this year. 
 Schultz added the Sentinel-class cutter is a game-changer in a time when the demand for U.S. Coast Guard services has never been higher. The Tunnell and Glen Harris will join two Sentinel-class ships already in service in the Arabian Gulf. Two additional 154-foot cutters will join these in 2022 for a total of six in service at PATFORSWA.
Established in 2002 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, PATFORSWA played a crucial role in maritime security and maritime infrastructure protection operations. PATFORSWA is a maritime humanitarian presence on the seas, providing U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet with combat-ready assets. Utilizing the U.S. Coast Guard’s unique access to foreign territorial seas and ports, our crews formulate strong and independent relationships throughout the Arabian Gulf and leverage the full spectrum of flexible vessel boarding capabilities at sea and maritime country engagements onshore.
U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area Contact: Coast Guard Atlantic Area Public Affairs Phone: (757) 398-6521 Atlantic Area online newsroom
U.S. Coast Guard to commission 45th Sentinel-class cutter
Editors’ Note: To view or download a high-resolution image, click on the graphic above.
WHO: Adm. Karl Schultz, commandant, U.S. Coast Guard, and team WHAT: Commissioning of USCGC Emlen Tunnell (WPC 1145) WHEN: 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 15, 2021 WHERE: Penn’s Landing, 101 South Columbus Blvd. Philadelphia, PA, 19106
Media interested in attending must RSVP no later than 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 12, with the Coast Guard Atlantic Area Public Affairs office at sara.g.muir@uscg.mil. Access to the event will only be granted to credentialed media.
Security: Be prepared to show government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and media credentials at the security checkpoint. We ask participating media to arrive no later than 9:15 a.m. for check-in. All guests are requested to double mask as a COVID mitigation.
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The U.S. Coast Guard will commission the USCGC Emlen Tunnell (WPC 1145), Patrol Forces Southwest Asia’s fourth Sentinel-class cutter, into service at Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia at 10 a.m. ET.
Due to COVID mitigation, in-person attendance is limited, and the event is not open to the public.
Adm. Karl Schultz, commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, will preside over the ceremony. Ms. Yvonne Gilmore Jordan, the eldest first cousin to Tunnell, is the ship’s sponsor.
The cutter’s namesake is Steward’s Mate 1st Class Emlen Tunnell, a native of Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, who served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1943 to 1946. During this time, he rescued two shipmates. The first was aboard the USS Etamin at anchor in Papua New Guinea in 1944. When a crewman became engulfed in flame following a Japanese torpedo attack, he beat out the fire, sustaining burns, and carried him to safety. The second rescue came aboard the USCGC Tampa in 1946 when a shipmate fell overboard off Newfoundland. Tunnell risked the 32-degree Fahrenheit water suffering shock and exposure to save him. The U.S. Coast Guard awarded the Silver Lifesaving Medal to Tunnell posthumously for his heroism.
Tunnell was also a lauded athlete beginning in high school and then college before he joined the Service. While in the Coast Guard, he played football and basketball, and upon his departure, he resumed college. Tunnell went on to play professional football for the New York Giants and the Green Bay Packers. He also served as an assistant coach for the Giants. Notably, Tunnell is the first African American to play for the NY Giants, African American talent scout, and African American full-time assistant coach. He is also the first African American inducted into the Pro-Football Hall of Fame.
The Emlen Tunnell was officially delivered to the U.S. Coast Guard on July 1 in Key West, Florida. It is the 45th Sentinel-class fast response cutter. Each of these cutters carries the name of a U.S. Coast Guard enlisted hero. While the ship is commissioning in Philadelphia, it will homeport in Manama, Bahrain, part of U.S. Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia.
Established in 2002 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, PATFORSWA played a crucial role in maritime security and maritime infrastructure protection operations. PATFORSWA is a maritime humanitarian presence on the seas, providing U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet with combat-ready assets. Utilizing the U.S. Coast Guard’s unique access to foreign territorial seas and ports, our crews formulate strong and independent relationships throughout the Arabian Gulf and leverage the full spectrum of flexible vessel boarding capabilities at sea and maritime country engagements onshore.
Coast Guard, partner agencies respond to oil spill near Gaithersburg, Md.
BALTIMORE — Coast Guard and local agencies are responding to an oil spill in the Cabin Branch waterway, a tributary of the Patapsco River, northwest of Gaithersburg, Maryland, Monday.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capital Region received a National Response Center report at 11:40 a.m., stating that approximately 10 gallons of diesel fuel had leaked from a transfer line owned by Buckeye Terminals. Coast Guard pollution investigators dispatched to the scene estimated the leak to be approximately 300 gallons. The source of the discharge has been secured.
Currently, boom has been deployed to prevent the product from further impacting the environment. Miller Environmental, the contracted oil spill response organization for the event, is utilizing a vacuum truck and other sorbent materials.
The following agencies are also participating in cleanup efforts:
Maryland Department of the Environment
Baltimore Fire Department
Buckeye Terminals
The cause of the discharge is under investigation.
Imagery available: Coast Guard, Beach Haven Volunteer Fire Department rescue 6 from boat crash near Ham Island, N.J.
Editors Note: To view more or download high-resolution imagery, click on the photo above.
BEACH HAVEN, N.J. – The Coast Guard, and the Beach Haven Volunteer Fire Department rescued six boaters after their 30-foot white pleasure craft struck a fixed aid to navigation in the vicinity of Ham Island, Sunday.
Watchstanders at the Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay Command Center received a call from a good Samaritan at 12:18a.m., stating he overheard a large crash and several calls for help in the vicinity of Ham Island.
A 29-foot Response Boat-Small boatcrew from Coast Guard Station Beach Haven was launched to the scene at approximately 12:20 a.m., along with an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew from Coast Guard Atlantic City, and a jet ski crew from Beach Haven Volunteer Fire Department. Beach Haven Police Department shore crews were also launched.
Once on scene at approximately 12:32 a.m, the Station Beach Haven boatcrew, and the Beach Haven Volunteer Fire Department jet ski crews were able to successfully rescue all six boaters from the water. They had all sustained several injuries from the crash.
The boaters were safely taken back to shore where local emergency medical services personnel transported them to various local hospitals.
Sector Delaware Bay issued a safety marine information broadcast to mariners to be aware of potential debris in the area from the crash.
Coast Guard crews will be actively working to fix the aid to navigation.
Coast Guard rescues 3 as vessel sinks off Long Branch, New Jersey
Editors’ Note: Click on images to download video of the rescue.
LONG BRANCH, N.J. — Coast Guard members rescued three people after their vessel began taking on water three miles east of Long Branch, Sunday.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay received the initial notification from the Monmouth County 911 dispatcher at 9:14 A.M. that three people aboard a sinking vessel were in need of assistance.
A 47-foot Motor Lifeboat from Coast Guard Station Manasquan Inlet was dispatched to the scene along with an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City, which was diverted from training.
A rescue swimmer was lowered from the helicopter and helped all three people climb aboard the Motor Lifeboat. They were transported to Shark River Marina.
No injuries or medical concerns were reported. All persons rescued were wearing lifejackets.
OCEAN CITY, Md. — Coast Guard and the Maryland Natural Resource Police rescued four people aboard a sinking pleasure craft 14 miles off the coast of Ocean City, Saturday.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capital Region received a report through VHF Channel 16 from a person stating that their 25-foot vessel was taking on water.
A boatcrew from Coast Guard Station Ocean City was launched aboard an 47-foot Motor Lifeboat to assist.
When they arrived on scene, the crew dewatered the sinking vessel while a boatcrew from MNRP disembarked the four people from the vessel and transported them to shore.
No injuries were reported. All persons aboard the sinking vessel were wearing lifejackets.
Coast Guard, partner agencies manage oil clean up in Dagsboro, Del.
DAGSBORO, Del. — The Coast Guard, Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and Environmental Protection Agency are managing clean up efforts from an oil discharge, Wednesday, at the NRG Indian River Power Plant in Dagsboro.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay received a National Response Center report of approximately 30,000 gallons of #2 fuel oil discharged into a secondary containment area at the facility. There is no evidence of oil impacting the waterway. The cause remains under investigation.
The facility has hired an oil spill removal organization. Coast Guard responders will remain on scene to monitor cleanup progress.
“Our priorities are the safety and wellbeing of the responders, the public, and mitigating any further environmental impact,” said Lt. Cmdr. Kevin Higgins, Sector Delaware Bay Incident Management Division Chief.
-USCG-
