CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A Coast Guard aircrew rescued three people aboard a grounded recreational boat in Mission Lake, near Seadrift, Texas, early Thursday morning.
“Our helicopter crew, Sector Command Center, and Texas Parks and Wildlife responded expeditiously and prevented a bad situation from getting worse,” said Lt. j.g. Gregory Bukata, one of the helicopter pilots. “A special thanks to the quick response by the Victoria EMS and fire fighters who were waiting at the airport to provide medical care to the individuals.”
At approximately 3 a.m., the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Department contacted Coast Guard Station Port O’Connor watchstanders to report the three people in distress. Sector Corpus Christi launched an MH-65 Dolphin rescue helicopter aircrew and worked with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to help in the shallow water with an airboat.
The helicopter and airboat arrived on scene and quickly located the disabled boat. The rescue swimmer was lowered to the boat to assist the three men. One person was showing signs of hypothermia and the other two were very cold from temperatures at 35 degrees Fahrenheit and 20 knot winds. Due to needed medical attention, the aircrew hoisted them aboard. They were transported to Victoria Regional Airport where EMS was waiting.
Boaters are reminded to always check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly with appropriate personal protective equipment, always have enough life jackets for everyone aboard, have sufficient and appropriate medical supplies, always carry a marine VHF radio capable of calling for help and have a boating plan and communicate it with friends and family.