A Sector Humboldt Bay aircrew worked with U.S. Coast Guard Sector North Bend and U.S. Coast Guard Station Chetco River Thursday evening to rescue a 51 year old man from the rocky surf just off Harris Beach in Brookings, OR.
A Sector Humboldt Bay MH-65 aircrew was en route to Station Chetco River for training shortly before sunset when Sector North Bend informed them of a person in distress 200-300 yards off Harris Beach in the surf and rocks.
A 47′ Motor Life Boat crew from Station Chetco River arrived on scene and located the individual, who was wearing only jeans and shoes in the 48 degree water.
Unable to reach him due to the rocks and water depth, the Motor Life Boat crew vectored in the helicopter crew and helped them spot the man. The aircrew quickly deployed their rescue swimmer into the surf and recovered the individual, who was hypothermic and had lacerations from the rocks. The aircrew landed at Brookings Airport and transferred the patient to an awaiting ambulance.
