The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) government requested assistance from the United States Coast Guard for a search and rescue operation in Pohnpei State. A local citizen was reported missing on July 11 while fishing, prompting the request. The U.S. Coast Guard responded promptly on July 12 by deploying a C-130 aircraft from Barbers Point, Oahu, Hawaii.
The C-130 aircrew arrived at Pohnpei International Airport and stayed overnight at Pohnpei State’s Medical Monitoring Area in Dekehtik. On July 13, the crew conducted comprehensive aerial searches. However, due to FSM government requirements, the search efforts were reduced on July 14 before the aircraft proceeded to Guam.
In addition to providing an aircraft, the U.S. Coast Guard in Guam offered potential search patterns to assist local authorities. The U.S. Government collaborated with FSM Maritime Police, Pohnpei State Government, the Pohnpei Fishing Club, and friends and family of the missing individual in this effort.
This response is part of the obligations under the Compact of Free Association between the U.S. and FSM, which includes emergency assistance such as search and rescue operations.
Further details and photos can be found on Pohnpei State’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PohnpeiStateGov/