NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY, Va. — The Coast Guard rescued a mariner whose vessel went aground near Smith Point, Virginia, Thursday evening.
The operator of a 30-foot sailing vessel called Orion got on VHF-FM radio channel 16, stating his vessel ran aground near Smith Point in Maryland state waters.
The Coast Guard issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast and launched a 45-foot Response Boat from St. Inigoes station and an MH-60 Jaygawk helicopter from Elizabeth City.
The response vehicle found the sailing vessel lodged aground in shallow water, but was unable to assist because of the depth of the water.
The helicopter crew arrived and hoisted the mariner from the vessel and took him to Rappahannock General Hospital, with no reported injuries.
“The quick response of our crews allowed for a smooth and effective response in this case,” said Lt. Cmdr. Erin Palmer, the search and rescue mission controller for Sector Maryland-National Capital Region.
“Thankfully, the mariner had a VHF radio on board and did the right thing by hailing out for help. Channel 16 is continuously monitored by the Coast Guard, and it is imperative to have a VHF radio on board your vessel in case of an emergency.”
