A Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Forward Operating Location Cordova rescued a fisherman on the north side of Montague Island approximately 50 miles southwest of Cordova, Alaska, October 1, 2015. The Jayhawk crew hoisted the fisherman from the island and safely transported him to Cordova. U.S. Coast Guard video
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — A Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Forward Operating Location Cordova rescued a fisherman on the north side of Montague Island approximately 50 miles southwest of Cordova, Alaska, Wednesday.The Jayhawk crew hoisted the fisherman from the island and safely transported him to Cordova.Coast Guard Sector Anchorage watchstanders received a request for assistance from the fisherman reporting that his 30-foot fishing vessel was disabled and aground. Watchstanders maintained a communication schedule with the fisherman who later reported he was preparing to abandon ship onto Montague Island, an uninhabited bear relocation site, due to incoming surf. Watchstanders directed the launch of the Cordova Jayhawk aircrew.
“This case highlights the importance of having radio communication while boating in remote Alaskan waters,” said Lt. j.g. Kellen Stock, a Sector Anchorage watchstander. “Crews at the FOL in Cordova regularly train for rescues in Prince William Sound allowing them to safely rescue and transport the fisherman.”
FOL Cordova consists of a Kodiak-based MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter with supporting air, ground and communications crews. The FOL increases the Coast Guard's readiness and allows for faster responses to emergencies in the Gulf of Alaska and Prince William Sound.
Weather on scene was reported as 3-foot seas and 29-mph winds.