Three Men Rescued by U.S. Coast Guard Near Pikelot Atoll
Three men in their 40s were rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard after going missing while fishing near Pikelot Atoll in Micronesia. The men had set out from Polowat Atoll on March 30 in a 20-foot skiff with an outboard motor.
During their time stranded on the uninhabited island, the men used palm tree fronds to spell out “HELP” on the sand, which was spotted by a U.S. Navy plane. The Coast Guard and Navy then coordinated search and rescue efforts, covering over 78,000 square nautical miles.
When found, the men were in good health but slightly dehydrated. They had survived by eating coconut meat and drinking water from a well on the island. The Coast Guard Cutter Oliver Henry retrieved them and returned them safely to Polowat Atoll.
The successful rescue operation showcased the effective coordination between the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Navy, and regional partners. Maritime community and human connections were highlighted as crucial aspects of such operations.
In order to aid in their survival, the men’s survival packages and communication equipment were dropped by aircraft from the Navy and Coast Guard. The Coast Guard emphasized the importance of being prepared and connected in remote maritime environments.
The heartwarming story of the men’s rescue serves as a reminder of the dedication and teamwork of the U.S. Coast Guard and Navy in ensuring the safety of those in distress at sea.
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