US Coast Guard Officer Caleb Halle To Receive IMO 2023 Award For Exceptional Bravery At Sea

In a remarkable display of bravery, Caleb Halle, an Aviation Survival Technician Second Class with the United States Coast Guard (USCG), has been honoured with the prestigious 2023 IMO Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea. The award recognizes his unwavering determination and courage while leading a daring rescue mission for the crew of the tugboat Legacy in January 2023.

The Panel of Judges carefully selected Halle for the award, and the IMO Council officially endorsed their decision during its 129th session. Among 47 nominations from 18 Member States, one Associate Member, and three non-governmental organizations, Halle’s actions stood out as exceptional.

The tugboat Legacy faced a critical situation while towing a barge in treacherous conditions off the east coast of the United States. Strong winds and heavy swells caused the tow lines to snap, leaving the vessel and its seven crew members adrift.

After several unsuccessful rescue attempts by a USCG cutter, Halle’s helicopter rescue team, with helicopter CG-6566, was deployed to assist. In the face of challenging conditions, Halle demonstrated exceptional leadership and skill during the rescue. He successfully guided survivors into the rescue basket, communicated effectively with his team, and even stayed on-site to assist the incoming relief Coast Guard helicopter, CG-6024.

Despite communication failures and dangerous circumstances, Halle’s determination led to successfully rescuing all seven crew members from the Legacy. He even conducted a final search inside the vessel to ensure no one was left behind. In addition to Halle’s recognition, certificates of commendation were awarded to four individuals or nominee sets for their acts of bravery, and 13 recipients received letters of praise for their courageous actions.

In a separate category, 15 merchant vessels and their crews were recognized for rescuing migrants at sea. Several countries and organizations submitted the nominations, and the IMO Council is making changes to allow intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to submit nominations for such recognition.

Caleb Halle’s extraordinary courage and dedication have earned him a well-deserved place among the maritime heroes, and his actions inspire all those who strive to save lives at sea.

Reference: Mirage News, IMO

US Coast Guard Officer Caleb Halle To Receive IMO 2023 Award For Exceptional Bravery At Sea appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide

Source: Maritime Shipping News