The Coast Guard swiftly responded to a distress call from a sailor whose sailboat encountered trouble near Sapelo Island, Georgia, this week.

Urgent Rescue Mission

• A 36-foot sailboat ran aground near the Sapelo Sound, prompting the sailor aboard to send out a distress call as the vessel began taking on water.
• Upon receiving the report, Coast Guard Sector Charleston watchstanders mobilized rescue efforts.

Rapid Response

• A Coast Guard Station Brunswick boat crew and a Coast Guard Air Station Savannah helicopter crew were dispatched to the scene.
• The quick response was critical as the situation was urgent with the vessel in danger of sinking.

Injury During Salvage

• As the man onboard the sailboat attempted to work with commercial salvage to tow the vessel, he sustained a severe injury while trying to recover the boat’s anchor.
• The nature of the injury has not been disclosed.

Medevac Operation

• Recognizing the severity of the sailor’s condition, the Coast Guard helicopter conducted a medevac operation, transporting the injured man to a hospital in Savannah for urgent medical attention.
• At present, his condition remains undisclosed pending further updates.

Salvage and Conclusion

• Following the rescue operation, the sailboat was successfully towed to a marina located in Valona, Georgia, ensuring the safety of both the vessel and the surrounding maritime environment.

This incident underscores the importance of prompt and coordinated response efforts by the Coast Guard in safeguarding maritime activities along the Georgia coast. Stay informed with TLNA for updates on this developing story.

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