Coast Guard presents Charleston Harbor Pilot with Public Service Award
Christopher Thornton with the Charleston Branch Pilots Association is presented with a Meritorious Public Service Award from Rear Adm. Douglas Schofield, commander, Coast Guard Seventh District, for his commendable actions related to the uncontrolled acceleration of the MSC Michigan VII at the Charleston Branch Pilots Station in Charleston, South Carolina, June 26, 2024. The award recognized Thornton’s commendable actions to safely pilot the runaway ship for over 20 nautical miles, five major turns and under the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge without major incident at nearly twice the normal speed of ships through the harbor. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Ryan Dickinson)