OSSABAW ISLAND, Ga. – A man was rescued by a Coast Guard aircrew after he became stranded on Ossabaw Island, Sunday.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Charleston received a call at approximately 11:30 p.m., from the girlfriend of a man who has become stranded on Ossabaw Island after suffering mechanical issues on his 14-foot recreational boat.
A boatcrew aboard a 45-foot Response Boat – Medium from Coast Guard Station Tybee and an aircrew aboard an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter from Coast Guard Air Station Savannah were launched to assist. The aircrew arrived on scene first and hoisted the man to Hunter Army Airfield where he was met by local EMS.
“Thankfully he was able to contact his family by cell phone and report his approximate position,” said Lt. Cmdr. Russ Hall, pilot on the case. “Had he not had a secondary means of communication to back up his radio, the outcome may have been much different. Always have a way to contact someone for help, and don’t forget to come up with a float plan. It can save your life.”