Joint Medevac 180 Miles West of Astoria, Oregon

On Thursday, July 24, 2025, the U.S. Coast Guard medevaced a Canadian fisherman from his vessel approximately 180 miles off the coast of Astoria, Oregon.

The rescue operation began shortly after 1 a.m. when the Joint Rescue Coordination Center in Victoria, British Columbia, received an emergency call about a crew member experiencing a medical emergency about 300 miles west of Astoria. Victoria officials then notified the U.S. Coast Guard in Seattle.

After consulting with a flight surgeon who recommended a medevac, the U.S. Coast Guard maintained contact with the fishing vessel as it moved closer to shore. A U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Astoria MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter was dispatched. A Royal Canadian Air Force CC-295 Kingfisher from 19 Wing Comox provided crucial overhead support, including weather reporting and communications.

The Jayhawk and Kingfisher crews arrived on the scene at approximately 2 p.m. The fisherman was hoisted and transported to Air Station Astoria, arriving at 4 p.m., where he was then transferred to emergency medical services for a higher level of care.

“This rescue highlights the interoperability and mutual support between Canada and the United States in maritime Search and Rescue operations,” said Cmdr. Chelsey Stroud, U.S. Coast Guard search and rescue mission coordinator.

“When a Canadian mariner needs urgent help far from home, our U.S. Coast Guard partners answered the call,” said Capt. KP Brar of the Royal Canadian Air Force. “With support from the 19th Wing, this mission shows how trusted allies work together to save lives. Our SAR professionals train side-by-side for missions like this.”