JUNEAU, Alaska — A Coast Guard Air Station MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew medevaced an ailing mariner from the fishing vessel Northern Victor in Beaver Inlet, approximately 13 miles southeast of Dutch Harbor, Sunday.
The helicopter crew, deployed with the Munro on a Bering Sea patrol, departed Dutch Harbor, safely hoisted the 37-year-old man, and transported him to Iliuliuk Family and Health Services in Dutch Harbor.
Coast Guard Cutter Munro crewmembers, moored in Dutch Harbor, received the request for a medevac from the crew of the Northern Victor via radio. The helicopter crew was on deck at the community’s airport in order to maintain search and rescue capability.
Coast Guard 17th District command center watchstanders consulted with the duty flight surgeon and directed the launch of the helicopter crew.
“During visits to port, our cutters’ aviation detachments will disembark in order to remain SAR-ready from the nearest airport,” said Master Chief Petty Officer James Armstrong, command duty officer, 17th District command center. “Even during port calls our cutter and aviation crews are prepared to assist mariners in distress.”
Weather on scene was reported as 23 mph winds and 6-foot seas.