U.S. Navy Sailor Rescued in Arabian Gulf

http://newsblaze.com/story/20051218053248nnnn.nb/newsblaze/TOPSTORY/Top-Story.html


ABOARD USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - Helicopter and boat crews from USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) rescued one of the aircraft carrier's crew members Sunday, Dec. 18, 2005 at approximately 3 a.m. after the Sailor fell overboard while the ship conducted maritime security operations (MSO) in the Arabian Gulf. An investigation is underway.

The Sailor fell overboard at approximately 2:15 a.m. during routine MSO. The ship and aircraft from Carrier Air Wing 8 immediately started rescue operations. A helicopter from Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron 3 (HS 3) returned the Sailor to the deck of the carrier at 3:10 a.m. Medical personnel evaluated the Sailor who was determined to be in good condition.

Theodore Roosevelt and Carrier Air Wing 8 are currently deployed to the region to conduct maritime security operations and provide air support for multinational ground forces in Iraq.

MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material

My worst nightmare was always the vision of the stern of the ship as it sailed out of sight.

I got picked up by the plane guard destroyer, who had to back down hard to keep from hitting us.

But, when you got flight ops, the other planes have to be recovered.

A very lucky man.

happens quite often. They do everything possible to recover the sailor, but many times they fail.

the Arabs call it the first, the Iranians the second