Cadet Medevaced from Maersk Box Ship in Gulf of Mexico

A 20-year-old female cadet from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) was rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard after suffering an arm injury while aboard the U.S. registered Maersk Ohio in the Gulf of Mexico. USMMA cadets often sail on commercial vessels as part of their training to gain practical experience in the maritime industry. The ship’s captain requested the medevac to Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston, but the case was transferred to the Coast Guard District 8 command center watchstanders in the New Orleans area of responsibility. After consulting with the duty flight surgeon, a medevac was recommended.

An airborne Coast Guard Air Station Houston MH-65 Dolphin helicopter air crew was redirected to conduct the medevac. The helicopter crew reached the vessel, located approximately 50 miles off Galveston, Texas, and safely transported the cadet to the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston in stable condition. This swift response and successful medevac highlight the critical role of the U.S. Coast Guard in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals in distress at sea.

The incident serves as a reminder of the risks and challenges faced by maritime professionals, including cadets undergoing training at institutions like the USMMA. The hands-on experience gained through sailing on commercial vessels is invaluable but also comes with inherent dangers. The collaboration between the USMMA, commercial shipping companies, and the Coast Guard underscores the importance of preparedness and swift action in responding to maritime emergencies.

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