CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – The Coast Guard rescuedsix adults and one minor aboard an 18-foot recreational boat taking onwater near the Port Isla Blanca boat launch 9:30 p.m., Wednesday.At approximately 8:30 p.m., a boater aboard the recreational boatcalled Coast Guard Station South Padre Island watchstanders andreported taking on water approximately 200 yards outside of theBrownsville Ship Channel with a fog advisory coming into effect.Coast Guard Station South Padre Island crewmembers aboard a 33-footresponse boat arrived at buoy marker 5 in the channel. Once the CoastGuard crew was on scene, the distressed boaters were able to dewatertheir boat and it was placed into a side tow and brought safely toPort Isla Blanca, at about 10 p.m.
“This was the coxswains first search and rescue case and due to ourrigorous training program, Petty Officer 3rd Class Nolan Sherrill wasable to use his knowledge and safely execute the case," said PettyOfficer 2nd Class William Miller, the officer of the day on watch.Boaters are reminded to always check the weather forecast and prepareaccordingly with appropriate personal protective equipment, alwayshave enough life jackets for everyone aboard, have sufficient andappropriate medical supplies, always carry a marine VHF radio capableof calling for help, file a float plan and communicate it withfriends and family.