Talk:USCGC Waesche

Fire!
Posted on the USCG Pacific Area Facebook page on 23 Sep 2020:

THIS IS NOT A DRILL: U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Waesche crews battled a fire Sunday aboard the cutter that broke out during a scheduled deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet's area of operations.

Black smoke was reported at 5:18 p.m. (local time) and investigations revealed fires in the exhaust stack and nearby spaces.

The crew's training and quick actions extinguished the fire after battling the blaze at sea for 90 minutes.

Five crew members reported minor injuries sustained during firefighting efforts and were treated by the onboard medical team.

"The rapid response and courageous efforts from the crewmembers aboard Waesche to quickly contain and extinguish the fire are a testament to the bravery and skill of this crew," said Capt. Jason Ryan, Waesche's commanding officer.

The extent of the damages and cause of the fire are currently under investigation.

Waesche arrived at Yokosuka, Japan, today. While at Fleet Forces Yokosuka, the cutter will undergo further inspection and potentially repairs.

The cutter is under the tactical control of the U.S. 7th Fleet as part of routine presence operations in support of the United States' commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Coast Guard crews frequently train to save lives and the ship from flooding, fires, and damage sustained underway. But, they don't always have to put their training to use in real situations, alone, and miles from help. — BZ to Waesche's crew for their actions!

by PA3 Aidan Cooney - U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Southwest public affairs