MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Coast Guard to recognize Capitol Hornblower crewmembers for June rescue

U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 12/09/2018 07:48 PM EST

united states coast guard 

News Release  

U.S. Coast Guard 11th District Pacific Southwest
Contact: 11th District Public Affairs
Office: (510) 437-3325
After Hours: (510) 772-8865
11th District online newsroom

Coast Guard to recognize Capitol Hornblower crewmembers for June rescue

WHO: Coast Guard Sector San Francisco personnel, Capitol Hornblower crewmembers

WHAT: The Coast Guard is scheduled to honor Capitol Hornblower crewmembers for their rescue and response efforts during a man-overboard incident on June 29, 2018.

WHEN: Monday at 10 a.m.

WHERE: Capitol Hornblower at 1206 Front Street, Sacramento, CA 95814

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Coast Guard is scheduled to honor Capitol Hornblower crewmembers Monday for their rescue and response efforts during a man-overboard incident on June 29, 2018.

Capt. Tony Ceraolo, the Coast Guard Sector San Francisco commander, is scheduled to present Certificates of Merit to Capitol Hornblower crewmembers Zachariah Edwards (captain), John Nuno (first officer), Phillis Dunn (deckhand) and Steve Koppel (security officer).

On June 29, a passenger climbed the rail and intentionally jumped overboard from the Capitol Hornblower, a 77-foot ferry vessel carrying 105 passengers at the time. The captain and crew initiated a man-overboard retrieval in a narrow waterway with reduced visibility, resulting in the successful retrieval of the passenger. The passenger then became hostile and the captain initiated an emergency return to port to ensure guest safety. Once disembarked, the passenger was turned over to local law enforcement.

“This rescue highlights the vital role of ensuring and promoting passenger safety throughout Northern California and shows the incredible opportunity for Coast Guard and the maritime industry to partner and achieve common goals,” said Ceraolo. “Public service awards like this recognize private citizens who go above and beyond in helping the Coast Guard carry out its missions and we’re very pleased to honor this great crew.”

Media planning to attend are asked to contact Mr. Chris Gallup at (530) 721-0498.

-USCG-