CHARLESTON, S.C. – A Coast Guard helicopter crew rescued three people from their grounded vessel near Fripp Island, S.C., Saturday at approximately 7:50 p.m.
Harvey and Ginger Herold, of Beaufort, S.C., and Annette Cheek, of Bluffton, S.C., were aboard a 17-foot boat when they grounded their vessel in a marsh near Fripp Island. They then contacted the Coast Guard on a cellular phone and requested assistance.
A helicopter crew from Air Facility Charleston launched to assist the stranded boaters. Once on scene, they hoisted the three people onto the helicopter and brought them to Hilton Head Island Airport, S.C. The three people were reported to be in good condition.
The vessel owner will be responsible for the recovery of the vessel. The Coast Guard reminds boaters to bring a VHF marine radio, flares and lifejackets along when going out on a boat. The Coast Guard also recommends filing a float plan with friends or family before going out on the water.
