By David Matthews, New York Daily News
Three fishermen stranded on a small Pacific island for more than a week were rescued after making a “HELP” sign out of palm leaves on the beach.
The men, experienced sailors in their 40s, set off from the Micronesian island of Polowat aboard a 20-foot skiff on Easter Sunday. On Saturday, a family member made a distress call to find out where the fisherman was.
A Coast Guard and Navy search ensued, covering an area of approximately 80,000 square miles.
On Sunday, a Navy aviator spotted a large “HELP” message on the beach on Pikelot, a remote island about 100 nautical miles from home.
A day later, another plane dropped a radio and equipment. The men confirmed they were in good health but their boat was too damaged to return to Polowat.
The men were finally rescued on Tuesday and returned home.
“Whether we are here to protect valuable resources or save lives, we are not just visitors: we are members of this vibrant maritime community that connects all of these islands,” said Lt. Ray Cerrato, USCGC commander. Oliver Henry. said.
“This recent operation near Pikelot Atoll demonstrates the kind of difference we can make. It is not just about fulfilling a duty; it’s about the real human connections we make and the lives we touch,” he continued. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the faces of those we have helped. Here on Oliver Henry, we’re not just a crew; we are part of the heart of the Pacific and I couldn’t be more proud of the work we do.
A nearly identical rescue took place in 2020 on the same island, but those stranded fishermen spelled “SOS” with leaves.
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