The Pikelot atoll displays a ‘HELP’ sign crafted from palm fronds, with credit to the U.S. Coast Guard. The U.S. Coast Guard and Navy successfully rescued three sailors stranded on a small Pacific island for over a week. The men, all in their 40s, departed from Polowat to Pikelot on a 20-foot skiff on Easter Sunday. After six days, a woman contacted the Coast Guard when her uncles did not return from Pikelot, located 100 nautical miles away. The Coast Guard in Guam initiated a search, hindered by weather conditions and limited resources. A Navy aircraft focused on the keyphrase “rescue pacific island men” to aid in the search.
Rescue Mission in the Pacific Islands
When the Coast Guard ship, Oliver Henry, was stationed in Japan, it swiftly joined a critical rescue mission in the Pacific Islands.
The crews diligently combed through an expansive area of over 78,000 square nautical miles. The following day, a Navy aircraft successfully identified the trio’s palm leaf message.
Lt. Chelsea Garcia, the search and rescue mission coordinator, emphasized the significance of this ingenious act in directly pinpointing the men’s location.
Aircraft crews promptly lowered a radio and essential supplies to the men. Fortunately, they confirmed having food, water, and good health, despite their damaged boat. Subsequently, on Tuesday, the men were safely returned to Polowat.
Lt. Ray Cerrato, the commanding officer of USCGC Oliver Henry, reflected on the mission, stating, “Whether safeguarding resources or saving lives, we are integral members of the maritime community that unites these islands. The recent operation near Pikelot Atoll exemplifies the profound impact we can have. It transcends duty; it’s about fostering genuine human connections and touching lives.”
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