USCGC Oliver Henry rescues two mariners near Namoluk Atoll, Spotlights EPIRB value ahead of 406 Day

Just days ago, on March 29, 2025, the crew of the USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) raced to Namoluk Atoll in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), rescuing two mariners adrift in an 18-foot skiff.

Spotted by a Caroline Islands Air aircrew, the distressed vessel was quickly reached by Oliver Henry’s crew. The crew recovered the survivors and safely returned them—along with their skiff—to Namoluk, coordinating with local authorities.

Lt. Ray Cerrato, Oliver Henry’s commanding officer, said, “Bringing mariners back to their families never gets old—it’s a feeling that stays with you. This isn’t our first time, and yet every rescue reminds us why we’re out here. We’re proud to be part of this Pacific community, connected by water, and ready to step up for our Freely Associated partners whenever they need us.”

This latest success comes ahead of April 6—406 Day—celebrating the 406 MHz frequency of Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) and Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs).

While the Namoluk rescue relied on sharp eyes and swift response, it echoes last year’s Pikelot Atoll drama—where three mariners spelled “HELP” with palm fronds—and underscores a critical gap: too many still don’t leverage technology.

https://www.pacom.mil/Media/NEWS/News-Article-View/Article/4148491/uscgc-oliver-henry-rescues-two-mariners-near-namoluk-atoll-spotlights-epirb-val/