ALAMEDA – The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star is responding to a Jan. 3rd request from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) to assist the Russian-Flagged Akademik Shokalskiy and Chinese-Flagged Xue Long that are reportedly ice-bound in the Antarctic.  The Russian and Chinese Governments have also requested assistance from the United States. 

Coast Guard Pacific Area Command Center received the request Thursday evening from AMSA after they evaluated the situation and determined there is sufficient concern that the vessels may not be able to free themselves from the ice. AMSA has been coordinating rescue operations since the Akademik Shokalskiy became beset with ice on Dec. 24.  The Polar Star will cut short its planned stop in Sydney to support the AMSA’s request for assistance.

“The U.S. Coast Guard stands ready to respond to Australia’s request,” said Vice Adm. Paul F. Zukunft, Coast Guard Pacific Area Commander. “Our highest priority is safety of life at sea, which is why we are assisting in breaking a navigational path for both of these vessels. We are pleased to learn the passengers of the Akademik Shokalskiy have been transported safely off the vessel. We are always ready and duty bound to render assistance in one of the most remote and harsh environments on the face of the globe.”

The Polar Star left its homeport of Seattle in early December on one of its primary missions, Operation Deep Freeze. The ship’s mission is to break a channel through the sea ice of McMurdo Sound to resupply and refuel the U.S. Antarctic Program’s  (USAP) McMurdo Station on Ross Island.

The National Science Foundation manages the USAP, which coordinates all science research and related logistics in Antarctica and on the Southern Ocean. McMurdo Station is the logistics hub for NSF’s research. The Polar Star will continue on this mission after conclusion of the vessel assistance mission.

This is the first time since 2006 that the Polar Star has made this journey. It has recently completed a three-year, $90 million overhaul, which will allow it to continue these important missions into the foreseeable future.  For more than 50 years, Coast Guard icebreaker crews have deployed to Antarctica in support of Operation Deep Freeze.  They will again assist by creating a navigable shipping lane through the layers of sea ice in McMurdo Sound permitting delivery of critical fuel and supplies needed to operate the U.S. McMurdo and South Pole stations throughout the coming year.

The Polar Star is the U.S. Coast Guard’s only active heavy polar ice breaker. The ship is 399 feet in length, its maximum speed is 18 knots, it is able to continuously break six feet of ice at three knots, and able to break 21 feet of ice backing and ramming.  The Polar Star is specifically designed for open-water icebreaking with a reinforced hull and special icebreaking bow.

	Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star responds to a call from Australian Maritime Safety Authority to assist the Russian-Flagged Akademik Shokalskiy and Chinese-Flagged Xue Long that were ice-bound in the Antarctica. The Icebreaker Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star experienced 50-knot winds, 20-foot seas and 40-degree rolls, Jan. 5, 2014. (Coast Guard photo by Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star)

ALAMEDA, Calif. - The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star was released by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority from search and rescue duties Jan. 7, following confirmation the Russian-Flagged Akademik Shokalskiy and Chinese-Flagged Xue Long are free from the Antarctic ice due to a favorable change in wind conditions.

The Coast Guard Pacific Area command center received confirmation from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority at 2 p.m. Pacific Standard Time that both ships broke through the heavy ice, rendering assistance from the Polar Star no longer necessary.

“We are extremely pleased to learn that both the Xue Long and the Akademik Shokalskiy freed themselves from the ice. This case underscores the dynamic and harsh operating environment and the necessity for Polar Class Icebreakers in the Antarctic. I am indebted to the tremendous collaboration with RCC Australia, other countries that assisted and the National Scientific Foundation throughout this operation,” said Vice Adm. Paul F. Zukunft, Coast Guard Pacific Area commander.” And I am especially proud of the crew of the Polar Star who have toiled these past several years in restoring this great cutter to Semper Paratus – Always Ready status, as she alters course for McMurdo and Operation Deep Freeze.”

“I am exceptionally proud of my crew in their ability to respond to this mission,” said Capt. George Pellissier, commanding officer of the Polar Star. “I, too, am extremely pleased that both the Akademik Shokalskiy and the Xue Long have been able to work their way free of the ice. We’re now looking forward to continuing on our primary mission of resupplying McMurdo Station.”

The Polar Star received the original request from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority  on Jan. 3 to assist the Russian-Flagged Akademik Shokalskiy and Chinese-Flagged Xue Long, reportedly ice-bound in the Antarctic.  The Russian and Chinese governments also requested assistance from the United States. After resupplying in Sydney, the cutter was en route to the stranded vessels Jan. 4.

The Polar Star left its homeport of Seattle in December 2013 on one of its primary missions  Operation Deep Freeze. The ship’s mission is to break a channel through the sea ice of McMurdo Sound to allow the resupply and refueling of the U.S. Antarctic Program’s McMurdo and Amundsen-Scott South Pole stations.

The National Science Foundation manages all the scientific research and logistics of the U. S. Antarctic Program on the Antarctic continent and in the Southern Ocean. McMurdo Station is the logistics hub for the U.S. Antarctic Program research.

This is the first time since 2006 that the Polar Star has made this journey. It has recently completed a three-year, $90 million overhaul, which will allow it to continue these important missions into the foreseeable future.  For more than 50 years, Coast Guard icebreaker crews have deployed to Antarctica in support of Operation Deep Freeze. 

The Polar Star is the U.S. Coast Guard’s only active heavy polar icebreaker. The ship is 399 feet in length and its maximum speed is 18 knots. The cutter is able to continuously break six feet of ice at three knots, and break 21 feet of ice backing and ramming.  The Polar Star is specifically designed for open-water ice breaking with a reinforced hull and special ice-breaking bow.

Click images for hi-res versions

The crew of the fishing vessel El Apache, reported overdue on their voyage to Panama City, Panama, Dec. 28, were rescued by the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell, approximately 100 nautical miles southwest of Panama. The four fishermen, whose names will not be disclosed, were given food and water, clean clothes, showers, and phone calls home. "Thank God! We shared a lot of joy that we were saved," said one of El Apache's crew. "We are very thankful that we were picked up, after so many ships had passed by without seeing us." El Apache and its crew were transferred the following day to a Panamanian Coast Guard vessel where they could then be taken home to their families. (Coast Guard photo by LT j.g. Michael Salerno)

The crew of the fishing vessel El Apache, reported overdue on their voyage to Panama City, Panama, Dec. 28, were rescued by the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell, approximately 100 nautical miles southwest of Panama. The four fishermen, whose names will not be disclosed, were given food and water, clean clothes, showers, and phone calls home. "Thank God! We shared a lot of joy that we were saved," said one of El Apache's crew. "We are very thankful that we were picked up, after so many ships had passed by without seeing us." El Apache and its crew were transferred the following day to a Panamanian Coast Guard vessel where they could then be taken home to their families. (Coast Guard photo by LT. j.g. Eric Balcunas)

A crew member from the fishing vessel El Apache waves goodbye to the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell as he is transferred to a waiting Panamanian Coast Guard vessel. The El Apache's crew, reported overdue on its voyage to Panama City, Panama, Dec. 28, were rescued by the crew of the Boutwell, approximately 100 nautical miles southwest of Panama. The four fishermen, whose names will not be disclosed, were given food and water, clean clothes, showers, and phone calls home. "Thank God! We shared a lot of joy that we were saved," said one of El Apache's crew. "We are very thankful that we were picked up, after so many ships had passed by without seeing us." (Coast Guard photo by LT. j.g. Eric Balcunas)

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ALAMEDA, Calif. - The crew of the San Diego-based Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell rescued four fishermen Monday after their disabled fishing vessel had been adrift off the coast of Panama for 14 days.

The Coast Guard's 11th District Command Center, based in Alameda, Calif., notified the Boutwell's crew of the reported drifting vessel early Monday afternoon. The vessel was discovered approximately 100 nautical miles southwest of Panama.

Arriving on scene, Boutwell relieved the crew of the New General, a bulk cargo ship that had initiated the distressed vessel report to the Coast Guard after being flagged down by the drifting fishermen.  Boutwell's crew confirmed the fishing vessel as El Apache, reported overdue on its voyage approximately one week earlier. The El Apache's crew was due to return to Panama City, Panama, on Dec. 28, but had suffered an engine casualty.

The survivors were given fresh water and taken aboard Boutwell while the Boutwell's engineers attempted to troubleshoot El Apache's engine casualty -- a faulty fuel pump. Repairs were unsuccessful, and Boutwell's crew took the El Apache in tow. When asked how they had survived, the fishermen replied that they had rationed their catch and even their bait. They had small portions of rice which they were able to cook on a gas stove and they collected rainwater from the recent squalls for drinking. 

While adrift, the fishermen constructed a sail using a tarp they had on board, and a log found floating in the water. The four fishermen, whose names will not be disclosed, were given food and water, clean clothes, showers, and phone calls home.

"Thank God! We shared a lot of joy that we were saved," said one of El Apache's crew members. "We are very thankful that we were picked up, after so many ships had passed by without seeing us."

El Apache and her crew were transferred the following day to a Panamanian Coast Guard vessel operating south of David, Panama, where they could then be taken home to their families.

The U.S. Coast Guard has a reputation for saving lives along the nation's coasts every day, but it also deploys assets around the globe.

"I think it's awesome that no matter where we are in the world, the Coast Guard is able to help people and make sure they get home safely, just as we do for each other back home." said Petty Officer 1st Class Cale Silva, a coxswain stationed aboard Boutwell.

Commissioned in 1968, the 378-foot Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell is home-ported in San Diego, Calif., and is one of eight remaining High Endurance Cutters in service. 

The crew is currently deployed in the Eastern Pacific Ocean and not available for interviews. Interested members of the media may contact Coast Guard 11th District Public Affairs at (510) 772-8865.

LOS ANGELES - The Coast Guard saved a man after his sailboat ran aground near Piedras Blancas Lighthouse, in San Simeon, Calif., Thursday at approximately 5 a.m.

The man operating the 32-foot sailboat contacted the Coast Guard via cell phone after the ship's mast broke and rendered the marine band radio inoperable at approximately 3 a.m. 

A Coast Guard Air Station San Francisco helicopter rescue crew was launched and recovered the man by lowering a rescue swimmer to the damaged vessel.

Once the man was aboard the Coast Guard rescue helicopter, he was brought to an awaiting emergency medical crew at approximately 5:10 a.m.

He had no reported injuries. 

The crew of the San Diego-based U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell interdicted a “go-fast” vessel Dec. 30, 2013, apprehending three suspected drug smugglers and seizing 1,375 pounds of drugs. The U.S. Coast Guard deploys it assets to both the and Eastern Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, in coordination with other law enforcement agencies and partner nations, to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs into the United States. (U.S. Coast Guard photo)

The crew of the San Diego-based U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell interdicted a “go-fast” vessel Dec. 30, 2013, apprehending three suspected drug smugglers and seizing 1,375 pounds of drugs. The U.S. Coast Guard deploys it assets to both the and Eastern Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, in coordination with other law enforcement agencies and partner nations, to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs into the United States. (U.S. Coast Guard photo)

ALAMEDA, Calif. – The crew of the San Diego-based U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell interdicted a “go-fast” vessel in international waters off the coast of Central America December 30, 2013, apprehending three suspected drug smugglers and seizing approximately 1,375 pounds of cocaine.

The Boutwell’s crew was patrolling in the region when a maritime patrol aircraft reported a suspicious vessel approximately 140 miles away heading north towards Central America. Boutwell’s crew immediately steamed towards the go-fast and as they approached the vessel deployed law enforcement pursuit teams in interceptor boats.

Upon sighting the Coast Guard, the suspects began jettisoning bales and conducting erratic maneuvers to evade the pursuit teams.  After a brief high-speed chase, the go-fast ended its attempts to evade and Boutwell’s boarding teams took control of the vessel and suspects. Coast Guard crews searched the area and recovered 14 bales of contraband.

The U.S. Coast Guard deploys assets to both the Eastern Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, in coordination with other law enforcement agencies and partner nations in the regions, to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs into the United States. U.S. maritime law enforcement and the interdiction phase of counter-smuggling operations in the Eastern Pacific occurs under the tactical control of the 11th Coast Guard District headquartered in Alameda, Calif.

Commissioned in 1968, the 378-foot Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell is one of eight remaining Hamilton-class high-endurance cutters in service. Her crew is currently deployed in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, conducting counter-drug and search and rescue missions. 

The Coast Guard evacuated four people from a brush fire on Kimball Island in the San Joaquin River, Sacramento, Calif., Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2014. Coast Guard Station Rio Vista arrived on scene, and the crew assessed the situation, and evacuated four people on the island. Once aboard the 29-foot Coast Guard boat, the four individuals were transferred to a responding Coast Guard auxiliary boat. (Coast Guard photo by Coast Guard Station Rio Vista)

The Coast Guard evacuated four people from a brush fire on Kimball Island in the San Joaquin River, Sacramento, Calif., Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2014. Coast Guard Station Rio Vista arrived on scene, and the crew evacuated four people from the island. Once aboard the 29-foot Coast Guard boat, the four individuals were transferred to a responding Coast Guard auxiliary boat. (Coast Guard photo by Coast Guard Station Rio Vista)

ALAMEDA, Calif. – The Coast Guard evacuated four people from a brush fire on Kimball Island in the San Joaquin River, Sacramento, Calif., Tuesday, January 14, 2014.

At approximately 3 p.m., Coast Guard Station Rio Vista received a call from the Solano County Sheriff’s department, requesting assistance with a possible evacuation on Kimball Island. The Coast Guard launched a 29-foot vessel and were the first responders on scene.

“It started as a 10-foot brush fire. With the wind increasing five knots, it kept spreading the fire,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Josh Lemas.

When the Coast Guard arrived on scene, the crew assessed the situation, and evacuated four people from the island. Once aboard the 29-foot Coast Guard boat, the four individuals were transferred to a responding Coast Guard auxiliary boat.

“We don’t receive many calls regarding fires on land, but we prepare for any circumstance,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian Lawler. “We worked together as a unit to help and assist the people on the island to complete another successful mission.”

Station Rio Vista is located in the Sacramento River Region of California. The station’s area of responsibility includes 1,500 miles of rivers and sloughs.  The station’s primary missions are search and rescue and law enforcement, with approximately 400 to 500 cases per year.

ALAMEDA, Calif. — The Coast Guard medically evacuated a husband and wife two miles south of Rio Vista, Calif. at approximately 10 a.m., Monday.

At approximately 9:47 a.m. Monday, watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector San Francisco received a report from the owner of a 27-foot fishing vessel, that his 51-year-old wife was losing consciousness and required assistance.

A Coast Guard Rio Vista 25-Foot Defender Class boat crew launched and arrived on scene at 10:09 a.m. The boat crew found both the husband and wife unconscious on the fishing vessel.

The Coast Guard crew safety anchored the fishing vessel and transferred the victims to Station Rio Vista where awaiting emergency medical personnel were standing by.

The victims were treated for possible carbon monoxide poisoning. After receiving oxygen, both victims regained consciousness.

A Sacramento police department hazardous material team has been notified to investigate the couple's boat.

ALAMEDA, Calif. — The Coast Guard is warning beach goers and boaters to exercise extreme caution while operating along the northern California Coast from Thursday through Friday evening.

The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory extending from south of Sonoma County into Monterey County.

It is forecasted, large swells up to the 20-foot range, will create strong rip currents at most beaches, moderate to large surf at reefs and sand bars and potential sneaker waves at steeper beaches.

“Boaters and beach-goers should remain vigilant, prepare for the unexpected and have proper survival and communications gear at the ready if disaster strikes,” said Capt. Greg Stump, commander of Coast Guard Sector San Francisco. “Sneaker waves are extremely perilous given their quick and silent punch; too many people have had their lives needlessly shortened."

Sneaker waves can catch beach-goers and fishermen by surprise. People walking along the beach should not turn their back to the ocean. Families should protect themselves and their loved ones from surf zones and avoid low-lying areas. Fishermen should avoid fishing near rocks and jetties.

Dog owners are also reminded to protect their pets from rough waves and not to attempt to rescue their dog from a surf zone. It is important to remember to keep calm and allow the dogs to swim out on their own.

Boaters are also reminded to check the weather before getting underway and ensure that their safety gear is up to date, and in good working condition. Basic safety items include: properly fitting lifejackets for everyone aboard, flares, a marine band radio and an emergency position indicating radio beacon.

The Coast Guard encourages all boaters to file float plans with friends or family.  A good float plan includes a description of the vessel, names of the crew, a list of safety equipment on board the vessel, the estimated time of arrival at the fishing grounds and the ultimate destination of the excursion.  The Coast Guard does not monitor float plans. Boaters should leave the float plan with a reliable person who can be depended upon to notify the Coast Guard in case you do not return as scheduled.  Float plan templates are available online and can be found here.

For more information on float plans click here 

ALAMEDA, Calif. — The Coast Guard is warning boaters of the dangers associated with Mavericks Invitational Surf Contest off the coast of Pillar Point, Calif., Friday.

The dynamic nature of breaking surf in the vicinity of the event creates inherent hazards for both participants and spectators. Due to the hazardous waters surrounding Pillar Point at the time of the surfing competition, the Coast Guard strongly discourages spectators from observing the event from the water. The Coast Guard will not be establishing a Safety Zone for the event as it is virtually impossible to reliably predetermine safe water in the immediate vicinity of the contest. Coast Guard and San Mateo County Harbor District assets will be in the event area and ready to respond in case of an emergency.

“The surf conditions that make for an exciting competition are also extremely dangerous for boaters,” said Capt. Greg Stump, Commander of Coast Guard Sector San Francisco. “Spectators on the water may pose a significant risk to themselves, competitors and rescue personnel; I strongly urge the public to enjoy the competition from an appropriate venue on land, rather than attempting to navigate the treacherous surf.”

Spectators choosing to view the event from the water do so at their own risk. Boaters should exercise extreme caution, remain aware of changing surf conditions, ensure their vessel is of appropriate design and outfitted with proper safety equipment. The Mavericks Surf Contest is only held when 15-20-foot waves are sustained for more than 24 hours and are combined with mild easterly winds. These surf conditions coupled with strong currents and shallow reefs in the area create a dangerous situation for both spectators and rescuers.

For more information on boating safety and required and recommended safety equipment, please visit www.uscgboating.org.

Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer James Taylor of the cutter Boutwell prepares the fishing vessel Calipso IV 
for towing in the Pacific Ocean Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2014. U.S. Coast Guard photo

A team from the Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell, consisting of Seaman Joshua Robinson, Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Prine and Chief Warrant Officer James Taylor,
prepare the fishing vessel Calipso IV for towing in the Pacific Ocean Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2014. U.S. Coast Guard photo

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell rescued four boaters approximately 160 miles south of El Salvador Wednesday.

Costa Rican officials requested Coast Guard assistance Jan. 17 in locating the 40-foot Costa Rican-flagged Calipso IV, which was reportedly disabled and adrift approximately 40 miles off the coast of Nicaragua.

The following day two Joint Interagency Task Force-South maritime patrol aircrafts, already operating in the region on counter-drug patrols, attempted to locate the vessel. Neither aircraft was able to locate the vessel or any sign of the crew. Search planners suspended the search pending any new information about the missing vessel.

A Coast Guard C-130 aircrew, also on counter-drug patrol in the area, sighted the vessel 217 miles west of Nicaragua Wednesday and saw the crew signaling for help. They were able to drop a handheld radio to the Calipso IV. The crew reported they had been disabled without food or water for several days. The aircrew successfully dropped food and water to the Calipso IV crew to hold them over until further assistance arrived.

The Boutwell crew arrived approximately four hours later and brought the four crewmembers aboard. As the Boutwell was towing the Calipso IV the vessel listed to port and began to sink. The vessel could not be salvaged and was cut free and left adrift.

The Boutwell brought the survivors safely ashore to Acajutla, El Salvador Friday and returned to their counter-drug patrol.

Overall coordination of counter-drug surveillance in the Eastern Pacific ocean is coordinated by the JIATF-S, headquartered in Key West, Fla. U.S, law enforcement operations, and search and rescue missions in the region, are coordinated by the 11th Coast Guard District in Alameda.

"Effective international partnerships and strong convictions to upholding the long standing maritime traditions of protecting mariners at sea were instrumental to saving these four lives," said Capt. Arthur Snyder, from the 11th Coast Guard District. "I'm particularly grateful for the response by the commercial vessel Uasc Doha who willingly diverted to assist with this case."

Ships and aircraft patrolling in the Eastern Pacific are a valuable asset for this type of search and rescue operation.

"It was fascinating how quickly search and rescue became a priority," said U.S. Air Force Capt. Rafael Beltran, a JIATF-S watch officer. "We were capable, we were there, and we were able to save lives."

Coast Guard Air Station San Francisco crewmembers take part in Shallow Water Egress Training while at the Coast Guard Base Alameda pool. The SWET chair gives crewmembers the opportunity to simulate egressing from an inverted cockpit underwater.
U.S. Coast Guard video by Petty Officer 2nd Class Barry Bena

The Honorable Alejandro Majorkas, deputy secretary of Homeland Security, addresses honored guests, family, friends and shipmates present during the memorial ceremony for Petty Officer 3rd Class Travis Obendorf held on Coast Guard Island in Alameda, Calif., Jan. 30, 2014. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Thomas McKenzie

The Coast Guard Honor Guard presents the colors during Petty Officer 3rd Class Travis R. Obendorf's memorial service on Coast Guard Island in Alameda, Calif., Thursday, Jan. 30, 2014. Coast Guard members gathered to honor Obendorf, a shipmate who died Dec. 18 as a result of injuries he sustained during search and rescue operations near Amak Island, Alaska, while serving aboard Coast Guard Cutter Waesche. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Loumania Stewart

Coast Guard members gather for Petty Officer 3rd Class Travis R. Obendorf's memorial service on Coast Guard Island in Alameda, Calif., Thursday, Jan. 30, 2014. Obendorf, a shipmate who died Dec. 18 as a result of injuries he sustained during search and rescue operations near Amak Island, Alaska, while serving aboard Coast Guard Cutter Waesche. U.S. Coast Guard video by Petty Officer 3rd Class Adam Stanton

Coast Guard personnel, family and friends honored the life and service of Petty Officer 3rd Class Travis Obendorf during a ceremony held at Coast Guard Island in Alameda, Calif., Thursday.

Obendorf died in a Seattle hospital Dec. 18 as a result of injuries he sustained during search and rescue operations near Amak Island, Alaska, Nov. 11, while serving aboard Coast Guard Cutter Waesche.

Coast Guard Comandant Adm. Robert J. Papp, and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt were some of the guests who made the trip to Alameda to honor Obendorf.

"As we grieve for the loss of our shipmate, we remember that for over 223 years others in that long blue line - dedicated Coast Guard men and women like Petty Officer Travis Obendorf - have stepped forward without hesitation and without reservation," said Papp.  "They accepted that sacred trust, to place the needs of their country first, and put service before self."

Petty Officer Obendorf died while on a search and rescue mission so that other s may live, Leavitt said.

"It is brave Coast Guardsmen like Petty Officer Obendorf that leave a legacy of courage, commitment, character and sacrifice," said Leavitt. "A sacrifice that will never be forgotten, and a legacy that reminds us all of the selfless service that we are called to despite the challenges we face."

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- Coast Guard investigators and inspectors are responding to a container vessel that lost propulsion near Berth 35 in Oakland, Calif., Friday. 

At approximately 8:45 a.m., the Coast Guard was notified of a container ship that lost propulsion while mooring at berth in Oakland.  The ship deployed its anchor and two tugboats assisted the ship into the pier.

The ship was not over the Bay Area Rapid Transit tubes when the anchor was deployed, but due to the proximity, the Coast Guard notified BART personnel as a precautionary measure.

The cause of the vessel’s loss of propulsion remains under investigation.

For more information regarding BART, please contact Alisia Trost at 510-464-6154.

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- A Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew from Air Station San Francisco rescued two boaters and a 12-year-old from their disabled and sinking 32-foot vessel approximately two miles off Big Sur, Calif., Tuesday afternoon.

The Coast Guard Sector San Francisco command center received a distress call from the vessel's passengers stating they had become disabled and were taking on water from the 10- to 15-foot seas. The rescue aircrew was immediately deployed, but once on scene difficulties in the rescue arose due to the vessel's rigging and snag hazards.

To successfully conduct the rescue, the aircrew lowered their rescue swimmer attached to the aircraft's hoist cable and directed the survivors to enter the water one at a time.  The aircrew then recovered each person into the aircraft. The survivors were brought to
awaiting emergency medical technicians at Monterey Regional Airport in Monterey, Calif., where they were reported to be in stable condition.

"The captain of the vessel had the right equipment onboard and was well prepared," said Lt. Cmdr. Dave Smith, the rescue helicopter pilot. "He had a handheld radio and flares and did the right thing by calling the Coast Guard as soon as he realized he was having a problem."

Click image to view video by Coast Guard Air Station San Francisco: 

SAN FRANCISCO — The Coast Guard worked with local agencies to rescue three people near China Beach in San Francisco, Calif., Thursday afternoon.

At approximately 12:50 p.m., watchstanders at the Coast Guard Sector San Francisco command center received a call from the National Park Service reporting a person injured near the Cliff House in San Francisco.

Coast Guard Station Golden Gate launched a 47-foot Motor Lifeboat rescue crew who discovered two males near the beach who slid down a cliff to assist a female in distress. San Francisco Fire Department arrived on scene and recovered the two males to transfer them to the Coast Guard 47-foot MLB. They were then transported to Station Golden Gate in Sausalito, Calif., to be evaluated by emergency medical services.

Coast Guard Air Station San Francisco helicopter crews were diverted from a training mission to hoist the distressed female. The crew operated at the edge of the helicopter’s performance envelope, hoisting a paramedic and the injured female from 200 feet above the beach and transported them to Station Golden Gate where emergency medical services were waiting.

 “Our inter-agency coordination was fantastic,” said Lt. Cmdr Maria Richardson, a pilot during the case. “The paramedics on scene worked seamlessly with the helicopter’s crew which really helped getting the injured person off the beach more quickly.”

For more information, please contact Sector San Francisco Public Affairs Officer at 415-740-4364

Alameda, Calif. – The U.S. Coast Guard released Friday the Final Action Memorandum of an administrative investigation into the death of Senior Chief Terrell Horne, III during a law enforcement mission on December 2, 2012.

Senior Chief Horne was killed when the Coast Guard Cutter Halibut’s small boat was rammed by a fleeing panga-type vessel suspected of conducting illicit smuggling near Santa Cruz, Calif.

According to the Final Action Memorandum, Senior Chief Horne’s death was caused by the deliberate actions of the panga operator.  The memorandum also states that all Coast Guard units and crews involved in this incident properly followed all applicable policies, tactics, techniques and procedures.

“Tragic incidents like these remind us of the dangers our crews face every day in the fight against illicit smuggling,” said Vice Adm. Paul Zukunft, Commander of Coast Guard Pacific Area, and the convening authority for the investigation.  “We continue to mourn the loss of our shipmate and resolve to honor his legacy and sacrifice.”

Following a seven-day trial, a federal jury convicted two Mexican nationals on February 5, 2014 of charges related to the death of Senior Chief Horne.  One of the defendants was convicted of second-degree murder.  Sentencing is scheduled for May 12, 2014.

The Final Action Memorandum is publically available online in the Coast Guard’s FOIA reading room.   http://www.uscg.mil/foia/FOIA_Library.asp. 

SAN FRANCISCO - The Coast Guard urges mariners to use caution with the onset of high surf expected to pass through Northern California Sunday and Monday.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a high-surf warning for west facing shores. This means that there is an increased risk for rip currents and sneaker waves. 

The Coast Guard urges mariners to always:

* Stay Informed - The public should be aware of weather conditions and monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio and internet.  NOAA's site, www.wrh.noaa.gov/mtr/ is a great resource. Check the current and expected weather and water conditions before heading out and be aware that weather conditions can quickly change.

* Wear life jackets while on the water.

* File a float plan with friends, family members and local marinas before heading out. The list should include the number of passengers aboard the vessel, vessel's destination, vessel's description, and expected time of return.

* Always have a working VHF marine radio aboard.

* Carry marine flares aboard the vessel.

* Ensure bilge pumps are operational and vessels are secure for heavy winds and rain.

For more information on boating safety, visit www.uscgboating.org.

To view video, please click on the image: 

SAN FRANCSICO - Coast Guard Air Station San Francisco rescued four people near Moffett Airfield in Mountain View, Calif., Monday morning.

Coast Guard Sector San Francisco was notified by cellphone from one of four people aboard a vessel that ran aground in the San Francisco Bay. Two women and two men in their late 40s became stranded near South Bay Marsh Island when their engine failed, said Lt. Ian Culver, a pilot assigned to Air Station San Francisco.

The air station launched a helicopter rescue crew to assist the stranded party. The crew found them near high tension power lines and deployed a rescue swimmer to assess the surroundings and the conditions of the people.

The rescue crew then transported the four people to Moffett Airfield where emergency medical services were waiting.

"This case was a success," said Culver. "However, it could have gone differently if the people aboard the vessel didn't have a radio. Because they were fortunate to have cell service, one of the people in distress was able to communicate with our personnel, and we were able to find them quickly. It is important that all boaters, no matter how close to shore they are, have a marine radio. You never know what can go wrong while out on the water."

The rescued people were reported in good condition.

The helicopter crew consisted of pilots Lt. Chris Courtney and Lt. Ian Culver, Aviation Maintenance Technician Petty Officer 2nd Class Travis Swain, and Aviation Survival Technician Petty Officer 3rd Class Corey Fix.

Coast Guard Petty Officer 1st Class Christopher Hartman, from Maritime Safety and Security Team San Francisco, and his dog, Evy, conduct training at Coast Guard Island in Alameda, Calif., Wednesday, March 19, 2014. Several bomb-sniffing dogs from various agencies around the Bay Area participated in the training aimed at measuring the dogs' ability to detect bomb-making materials. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Loumania Stewart

Blasjo a Coast Guard explosives-detection K-9, receives a treat from her handler, Petty Officer 2nd Class Cory Sumner, assigned to Maritime Safety and Security Team San Francisco, after conducting training at Coast Guard Island in Alameda, Calif., Wednesday, March 19, 2014. Several bomb-sniffing dogs from various agencies around the Bay Area participated in the training aimed at measuring the dogs' ability to detect bomb-making materials. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Loumania Stewart


Evy, a Coast Guard explosives-detection K-9, relaxes with Officer Neil Wu from the San Francisco Park Police and her handler, Petty Officer 1st Class Chris Hartman, assigned to Maritime Safety and Security Team San Francisco, after conducting training at Coast Guard Island in Alameda, Calif., Wednesday, March 19, 2014. Several bomb-sniffing dogs from various agencies around the Bay Area participated in the training aimed at measuring the dogs' ability to detect bomb-making materials. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Loumania Stewart

ALAMEDA, Calif -- Coast Guard and partner agencies conducted K-9 training aboard Coast Guard Island in Alameda, Wednesday.

Multiple training scenarios were set up to test the dogs' ability to detect explosives-making materials.

Coast Guard personnel utilize explosives-detecting K-9s to help ensure the safety of the American public by scanning passengers that utilize ferries, cruise ships and other types of commercial and passenger vessels.

"Joint training of this nature is critical to developing and fostering our interagency partnerships while serving to enhance the capability of K-9 explosive detection in the San Francisco Bay area," said Lt. Marcus Brown, Maritime Safety and Security Team 91105. "Furthermore, it is reminiscent of the Department of Homeland Security's layered security strategy that aims to interdict threats at all levels." 

Petty Officer 1st Class Adrianne Kupietz (third to right), a marine science technician assigned to Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach, was awarded the active duty enlisted person of the year during the Coast Guard District 11 region recognition dinner at Training Center Petaluma in Petaluma, Calif., Friday, March 21, 2014. The EPOY program is designed to recognize exemplary men and women from the active and reserve enlisted work force. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Loumania Stewart

Petty Officer 2nd Class Blaine Meserve-Nibley, a marine science technician assigned to Pacific Strike Team in Novato, Calif., was awarded the reserve enlisted person of the year during the Coast Guard District 11 Region Recognition Dinner at Training Center Petaluma in Petaluma, Calif., Friday, March 21, 2014. The EPOY program is designed to recognize exemplary men and women from the active and reserve enlisted work force. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Loumania Stewart

Coast Guard District 11 Enlisted Person of the Year nominees gather at the District 11 Region Recognition Dinner at Training Center Petaluma, Calif., Friday, March 21, 2014. The EPOY program is designed to recognize exemplary men and women from the active and reserve enlisted work force. Coast Guard photo by
Petty Officer 2nd Class Barry Bena

ALAMEDA, Calif. - The 2013 Active Duty and Reserve Enlisted Person of the Year for the 11th Coast Guard District were honored during a recognition banquet at Coast Guard Training Center Petaluma, Calif., Friday.

The Active Duty Enlisted Person of the Year is Petty Officer 1st Adrianne M. Kupietz, a marine science technician assigned to Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles - Long Beach, Calif.

The Reserve Person of the Year is Petty Officer 2nd Class Blaine Meserve-Nibley, also a marine science technician assigned to the Pacific Strike Team in Novato, Calif.

Kupietz, a Little Rock, Ark., native, who frequently volunteers within her community, giving of her free time to be a regular participant at the monthly SaveOurBeach.org Seal Beach clean-up and volunteering at McGaugh Elementary, assisting with reading comprehension. She also mentors at-risk youths for a unique Juvenile Crime Diversion Program.

Meserve-Nibley, from Boulder County, Colo., attended multiple recruiting events to increase the public's knowledge of the Coast Guard and volunteered more than 640 hours as Coast Guard liaison to California Maritime Academy. He also conducted military funeral honors for four Coast Guard veterans and accepted Title 10 orders to serve at the Redeployment Assistance and Inspection Detachment in Afghanistan.

Coast Guard men and women are recognized for being Semper Paratus -- always ready -- but the EPOY program is designed to highlight those who demonstrate exceptional standards of proficiency and conduct and reflect the Coast Guard’s core values of honor, respect and devotion to duty at work and in their personal lives.

“This is the best, this is the brightest ... this is the best Coast Guard I have seen in my 37-year career.” said Vice Adm. Paul Zukunft, Coast Guard Pacific Area commander. "I have never seen a better human resource capital, the people who wear this uniform across our service at such a high level that we perform today, so it is a great tribute to recognize these wonderful people."