ALCOAST 272/23 - 2023 INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION (IMO) HONOURS FOR EXCEPTIONAL BRAVERY AT SEA RECIPIENT

R 281433Z JUL 23 MID120000332068U
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 272/23
SSIC 1650
SUBJ: 2023 INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION (IMO) HONOURS FOR
EXCEPTIONAL BRAVERY AT SEA RECIPIENT
1. This message announces the recipient of the 2023 International
Maritime Organization (IMO) Honours for Exceptional Bravery at Sea.
2. Background.
    a. This annual award provides international recognition for
those who, at the risk of losing their own lives, perform acts of
exceptional bravery, display outstanding courage in attempt to
save lives at sea or in attempt to prevent or mitigate damage to
the marine environment. Such acts of bravery may also involve
extraordinary seamanship skills in very difficult conditions or
any other display of outstanding courage.
3. The 2023 IMO Honours for Exceptional Bravery at Sea recipient
is AST2 Caleb Halle, CG AIRSTA Atlantic City, NJ, while serving as
a rescue swimmer aboard COMDT (CG-6566).
    a. On 14 January 2023, the Legacy, a 95-foot tugboat, encountered
critical conditions off the coast of Ocean City, MD after snapped
towing lines fouled both main propulsion units. This event left the
vessel and its seven crew members adrift in violent seas. The
on-scene weather included 12-foot seas, 30 kt winds with gusts up to
45 kts, and 20-degree wind chill conditions. Due to this fierce
weather and the complexity of the circumstances, a Coast Guard
cutter was unable to get alongside the vessel, so the crew of the
COMDT (CG-6566) of AIRSTA Atlantic City quickly launched.
    b. COMDT (CG-6566) arrived on-scene and AST2 Halle deployed onto
the aggressively rolling deck of the disabled Legacy and immediately
identified the survivors onboard. AST2 Halle successfully rescued
the first three survivors but as conditions deteriorated, COMDT
(CG-6566) was faced with a dwindling fuel state and needed to
depart the scene. AST2 Halle heroically volunteered to remain
onboard the Legacy with the crew members and standby for the arrival
of COMDT (CG-6024) of AIRSTA Elizabeth City, NC.
    c. As COMDT (CG-6024) approached the vessel, AST2 Halle
encountered a loss of communication with the on-scene helicopter,
pending darkness, and worsening weather conditions. Nevertheless,
AST2 Halle's courage and determination led to successful retrieval
of all seven Legacy crew members from the perilous danger of the
disabled Legacy.
    d. AST2 Halle is commended for his dedication and bravery are
most worthy of this prestigious award, and in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.
4. The IMO also recognizes the bravery of AST3 John Walton onboard
COMDT (CG-6009), Aviation Training Centre Mobile with the
Certificate of Commendation. AST3 John Walton played a critical role
in the rescue of a person onboard the motor yacht Sandpiper, which
was rapidly taking on water in high seas.
5. The IMO further recognizes the bravery of the Damage Control
Division of the USCGC Midgett with a Letter of Commendation. DCC
Michael a. Filippone, DC1 Rilee E. Williams, DC2 William J.
Parker, and DC2 Kevin B. Smith are recognized for their
professionalism and diligence during the international rescue
operation involving a fire onboard the Peruvian naval vessel, BAP
Guise.
6. The announcement and presentation of the IMO Honors for
Exceptional Bravery at Sea is set to take place on the first day
of the 33rd Session of Assembly on 27 November 2023 at the
International Maritime Organization in London, England.
7. Mr. Jeffrey G. Lantz, Director of Commercial Regulations and
Standards (CG-5PS), sends.
8. Internet release is authorized.