Imagery available: Coast Guard medevacs bulk carrier crewmember

This image courtesy of Google Maps.

JUNEAU, Alaska — Coast Guard District 17 watchstanders received a call at 9:07 p.m. Sunday from Rescue Coordination Center Australia with a report that a crewmember on the Panamanian-flagged motor vessel Global Bay was suffering from abdominal pain and possible appendicitis.

The 537-foot bulk carrier, which was more than 200 miles south of Dutch Harbor, was directed to close distance to Dutch Harbor to facilitate a medevac from the MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Alex Haley.

“We make every attempt to maintain search and rescue-ready Coast Guard assets in the Bering Sea due to the harsh weather and job hazards experienced by those who work in that environment," said Lt.j.g. Eddie Michno. "Fortunately, the Alex Haley and Dolphin crews were in close proximity to conduct the medevac.”

The Dolphin crew was on scene at 7:53 a.m. and safely hoisted the 38-year-old Filipino crewmember from the Global Bay.

After briefly stopping at the Alex Haley to refuel, the Dolphin crew finished the transit to the Dutch Harbor airport and transferred the injured man to a commercial medical flight.

The man was reported in stable condition upon transfer.

For more information contact Petty Officer 3rd Class Grant DeVuyst at 907-321-1866.

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