A Coast Guard Air Station Miami MH-65 helicopter crew medically evacuated a man with an arm injury from a 100-foot supply vessel, approximately 70 miles southeast of Key West near Marathon, Florida.
He was hoisted and transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital for a higher level of care.
“This case highlighted the complex coordination and teamwork the U.S. Coast Guard employs to carry out dynamic missions,” said Lt. Cmdr. Josh Forteza, a MH-65 pilot and aircraft commander.
Coast Guard Seventh District watchstanders received the initial report. A Coast Guard airplane crew on patrol also assisted.
“Diverting an airborne HC-144 aircraft crew allowed critical information to be relayed quickly to the MH-65 crew, enabling us to arrive on scene nearly 70 miles offshore, fully prepared to conduct the medevac of a critically ill patient,” Lt. Cmdr. Josh Forteza said. “Coordination with Coast Guard Seventh District watchstanders and hospital staff ensured a smooth transfer of care.”
