Coast Guard Rescues Mariner Stranded on Rocky Alaska Coastline

— -- The U.S. Coast Guard came to the rescue on Monday of a mariner stranded in a sailboat that had run aground near Cape Puget, Alaska, Coast Guard officials said.

The sailboat, named the Lieveling, was drifting toward rocks 209 miles north of Kodiak, according to the Coast Guard's 17th District.

After the sailor on board called for help, the Coast Guard sent the cutter Mustang and a MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew. The Jayhawk's aircrew landed on a nearby beach and got the person piloting the Lieveling to safety with no medical concerns, officials said.

“It is important to have a form of communication while on the water in case of emergency,” said Lt. j.g. Dan Hendricks, a Coast Guard 17th District watchstander. “Other safety measures include filing a float plan, maintaining cold-weather gear and having a registered emergency position indicating radio beacon.”

The Coast Guard reported that there were 2-foot waves and clear skies during the rescue operation.