Exercising rescuers needed to be rescued
A military training vessel used for training to help those in need Monday needed help of its own, as the 55-foot boat got hung up on rocks near Powell River.
The Black Duck, an auxiliary vessel run by the 19 Wing Comox marine section, was conducting search and rescue training close to Vivian Island near Powell River, explained Capt. Trevor Reid, public affairs officer for 19 Wing.
"They were doing a scoop diving exercise, which is part of the SARtechs' annual qualifications of what they have to do," said Reid to media.
"While this vessel was on scene, it got hung up on the rocks on Vivian Island and as such, the nine crew members on board — the three naval crew and six search and rescue technicians were brought back to Comox earlier (Monday)."
He added the Coast Guard was on its way to the scene and would determine how best to recover the vessel in a safe and secure manner.
Reid confirmed although the crew had no way of getting off the boat in an expedient fashion, the boat was not taking on water and there were no injuries.
"A Cormorant helicopter was used to take the members off and bring them back to Comox where they are in good spirits right now," he said.
photos@comoxvalleyrecord.com
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