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HOUSTON — The Coast Guard rescued three stranded boaters near Freeport, Texas, Monday.
Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston watchstanders received a report at 12:23 p.m. of three men aboard a 15-foot jon boat that was disabled and anchored between the Brazos and San Bernard Rivers.
Watchstanders issued a marine assistance request broadcast, but received no response. Due to the lack of response, watchstanders directed the launch of a Coast Guard Station Freeport 45-foot Response Boat–Medium crew to assist, then issued an urgent marine information broadcast.
The Coast Guard boat crew arrived on scene, but was unable to assist due to shallow water. Because of a dragging anchor, the jon boat drifted ashore, stranding the three men on the beach of an inaccessible barrier island.
Watchstanders directed the launch of a Coast Guard Air Station Houston MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew. Upon arriving, the helicopter crew hoisted all three stranded boaters and transported them to Texas Gulf Coast Regional Airport in Angleton, Texas.
No injuries were reported. The vessel's owner will arrange for its salvage.
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