Truman CSG Transfers Rescued Iranian Mariners

Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Kilho Park | Eight mariners board the Iranian navy ship Chiroo from a rigid-hull inflatable boat from the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman after their vessel was engulfed in flames Aug. 18. The mariners were rescued by two SH-60 helicopters from Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 7 and transported to Harry S. Truman, where they were evaluated by medical staff and provided with clothing and food. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is deployed supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.  

USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, AT SEA

08.20.2010

Courtesy Story

U.S. Navy           

USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, Arabian Sea – USS Harry S. Truman transferred eight rescued Iranian mariners via a small boat transfer to the AKL Chiroo, an Iranian Navy Delvar class ship, Aug. 20 in the Arabian Sea. The successful small boat transfer was coordinated between Chiroo and Truman using bridge to bridge radio transmissions.

The mariners had been pulled from sea on Aug. 18 by U.S. Navy helicopters after their boat caught fire.

While aboard Truman, the ship’s medical staff evaluated each of the mariners’ conditions, where they assessed no significant injuries; medical staff also provided fresh clothing, food, water and temporary sleeping quarters.

Speaking through a translator assigned to Truman, the fishermen expressed their gratitude for the treatment they received while aboard the aircraft carrier. The translator also conveyed that the fisherman prayed for and blessed the pilots and medical team who had helped them.

“We were fortunate to be in a position where we were able to help our fellow mariners,” said Rear Adm. Patrick Driscoll, commander, Carrier Strike Group 10. “We are glad that we were able to help and deliver them safely to the Chiroo so that they can re-unite with their families and loved ones.”

“One of our aircraft reported seeing a fire on the water,” said Capt. Steven Wieman, Truman’s Operations officer. “He proceeded inbound to check out the scene and confirm that it was a small vessel that was ablaze.”

Two SH-60 helicopters from Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 7 were dispatched to render assistance, and search and rescue swimmers deployed into the water to successfully rescue all of the vessels crew members from their life raft.

Truman Strike Group is on a regularly scheduled deployment to the 5th Fleet area of responsibility in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

• Date Taken: 08.20.2010
• Date Posted: 08.20.2010 21:13
• Story ID: 54936
• Location: USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, AT SEA