USCG Helps Rescue 2 on Vancouver Island, British Columbia

The U.S. Coast Guard transported two injured hikers from a remote part of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, to Victoria at the south end of the island, Saturday.

A Port Angeles-based MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew safely hoisted the two men, both were reportedly suffering from broken ankles and one with additional head trauma, and transported them to the Canadian coast guard base in Victoria where they were successfully delivered to awaiting EMS personnel.

Watchstanders at the Coast Guard 13th District Command Center in Seattle received a request from personnel at the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Victoria, at 7:30 p.m., requesting the assistance of a helicopter crew to transport the injured men, as their normal search and rescue helicopters were engaged in other operations at the north end of Vancouver Island.

"We have a strong partnership with our Canadian neighbors and in rescue situations we often work together to get the right people and equipment on scene to ensure the safety of the public and mariners," said Don Knesebeck, a search and rescue coordinator at the 13th District Command Center.

The two men were reportedly hiking near Juan de Fuca Provincial Park, when the 65-year-old male slipped and was injured. The other hiker, a 25-year-old male, was reportedly going to get help, when he also slipped and was injured.

The 13 District watchstanders directed the launch of the Dolphin crew from Port Angeles. They were able to safely provide the requested assistance and get the two men medical help.