WILMINGTON, N.C. — The Coast Guard rescued two men from a sinking sailboat more than 100 miles off the North Carolina coast Tuesday after they called for help when their vessel began taking on water.
The mariners activated their emergency communication equipment, including a VHF-DSC distress alert and a satellite emergency notification device, after being unable to manage the flooding aboard their 32-foot sailboat, Walrus.
The District Five Command Center coordinated the rescue, deploying a C-130 Hercules airplane and an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Air Station Elizabeth City. The C-130 arrived first and dropped a dewatering pump, but when the flooding continued, the helicopter crew hoisted both men from the sinking vessel and transported them to shore.
Both mariners were reported to be in stable condition with no injuries. Their vessel was abandoned at sea.
“This rescue highlights the critical importance of properly registered communication equipment,” said Lt. Sheena Bannon, a search and rescue coordinator for Coast Guard District Five, emphasizing that their distress call allowed for a rapid response.