Naval Reservists Assist in Water Taxi Rescue

Reservists from Naval Reserve Center (NRC) Baltimore assisted in the rescue of more than a dozen passengers from a water taxi that had capsized in Baltimore's Inner Harbor late in the afternoon of March 6.

Two of the passengers died and three were still listed as missing, while the remaining 22 were rescued by Baltimore City Fire Department personnel, with the assistance of the NRC Baltimore Reservists.

Command Master Chief Melvin Johnson and Information Systems Technician 3rd Class Edward Mendez witnessed the water taxi capsize as it attempted to maneuver in heavy winds and seas. They immediately called 911, and Cmdr. Petersen Decker, commanding officer of Fleet and Industrial Supply Center Norfolk, Det. 106, coordinated the launch of one of the NRC's small craft to assist in the rescue effort.

Approximately 15 Naval Reserve and active-duty personnel assisted the Baltimore City Fire Department in rescuing 20 passengers.

"My guys didn't hesitate," said NRC Baltimore Commanding Officer Cmdr. Jim McGovern. "They saw what happened and jumped into action."

"I'm extremely proud of my people," said McGovern.

(Source: Navy News Service)