The Coast Guard said Tuesday that three mariners trapped on a small Pacific island were rescued after spelling out "HELP" with palm leaves on the beach.
This marks the second time castaways have been discovered on the same island in four years.
The sailors were discovered on Pikelot Atoll after being stranded in the Micronesian archipelago for more than a week.
"Our unwavering dedication to the search and rescue mission not only ensures the safety and well-being of mariners and coastal communities but also reinforces the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between the United States and the FSM and with our DoD partners," said Capt. Nicholas Simmons, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam.
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The men, all skilled sailors in their forties, set out from Polowat Atoll on Easter Sunday in a 20-foot open skiff, which was fitted with an outboard motor, according to officials.
However, six days later, on April 6, the Coast Guard in Guam received a distress call from a relative reporting that her three uncles had not returned as planned to their home of Pikelot Atoll, which is about 100 nautical miles northwest of Polowat Atoll.
The United States Coast Guard and Navy immediately initiated a joint search and rescue operation.
Despite the severe weather and limited resources in the area, a US Navy P-8 Poseidon aircraft crew headquartered in Japan was dispatched, and the USCGC Oliver Henry cutter was redirected to the search area, which covered more than 78,000 square nautical miles.
The breakthrough came when the U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon aircraft identified the three mariners on April 7 on Pikelot Atoll, confirming their presence and condition.
"In a remarkable testament to their will to be found, the mariners spelled out "HELP" on the beach using palm leaves, a crucial factor in their discovery. This act of ingenuity was pivotal in guiding rescue efforts directly to their location" said Lt. Chelsea Garcia, the search and rescue mission coordinator on the day they were located. "This successful operation underscores the effective coordination and partnership between the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Navy, and regional partners. We extend our gratitude to everyone involved."
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The crew was able to relocate the mariners, dropping a radio to establish communication. The mariners confirmed they were in good health, had access to food and water, and recovered their skiff, which unfortunately sustained damage, rendering it and its outboard engine non-functional. They expressed a desire for assistance in returning to Polowat.
"Every life saved, and every mariner returned home is a testament to the enduring partnership and mutual respect that characterizes our relationship, making a profound impact on the lives of individuals and the resilience of communities across the FSM," said Lt. Cmdr. Christine Igisomar, the search and rescue mission coordinator on the day they were rescued.
USCGC Oliver Henry rendezvoused with the mariners on Pikelot Atoll on the morning of April 9. As requested, the ship successfully rescued the mariners and their equipment and returned them to Polowat Atoll.
"Whether we're out there protecting valuable resources or saving lives, we're not just visitors – we're members of this vibrant maritime community that connects all these islands," said Lt. Ray Cerrato, commanding officer of USCGC Oliver Henry. "This recent operation near Pikelot Atoll hits home the kind of difference we can make. It's about more than just performing a duty; it's about the real human connections we forge and the lives we touch. Every day, I'm reminded of the impact we have and the bonds we build. It's incredibly rewarding to see the faces of those we've helped. Here on Oliver Henry, we're not just a crew; we're part of the heartbeat of the Pacific, and I couldn't be prouder of the work we do."
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