CLEARWATER, Fla. \u2014 A Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater helicopter aircrew medevac\u2019d a captain of a fishing vessel who suffered a hand injury while hauling line, Tuesday, approximately 122 miles west of Longboat Key, Florida.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Medevac\u2019d is a 56-year-old man, who was safely transported to Tampa General Hospital in Florida.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Coast Guard watchstanders at Sector St. Petersburg received a medevac request and after evaluation it was determined that the patient required a higher level of care. Watchstanders directed the launch of an Air Station Clearwater MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter to conduct the medical evacuation of the passenger.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Once on scene, the air crew deployed their rescue swimmer who assessed the patient\u2019s condition and used a rescue basket to safely hoist and bring the passenger safely aboard the aircraft.<\/p>\n
“Executing a medevac more than 100 miles out in the Gulf requires precise execution,\u201d said Chief Petty Officer Sean Deaton, a command duty officer assigned to Sector St. Petersburg. \u201cThe quick and decisive actions by both our command center and air station personnel led to this successful rescue, demonstrating the proficiency and readiness of our crews to respond whenever and wherever they are needed.”\u00a0<\/p>\n
Our U.S. Coast Guard Southeast District crews stand ready to save lives, protect America\u2019s waterways, and support safe maritime activity.<\/p>\n
More information about the U.S. Coast Guard can be found at\u202fwww.uscg.mil<\/a>.\u00a0For breaking news, follow us on\u00a0X<\/a>. For additional information, find us on\u00a0Facebook<\/a> and\u00a0Instagram<\/a>.<\/p>\n – USCG –<\/p>\n