First District Public Affairs
U.S. Coast Guard
News Release
Media Advisory: Coast Guard commemorates 60th anniversary of Cape Cod rescues (photos and audio available)
On Feb. 18, 1952, during a severe "nor'easter" off the coast of Cape Cod, the tankers Fort Mercer and Pendleton broke in half. While Fort Mercer radioed for help, Pendleton was unable to make any distress call; the tanker was soon discovered on radar by Station Chatham during the search for Fort Mercer.
Despite unprecedented sea conditions and virtually impossible challenges, the crew of Station Chatham's motor lifeboat CG‐36500 rescued 32 crewmembers off Pendleton. Each crewmember of the 36500 was awarded the Gold Lifesaving Medal for their heroic actions. Another crew from Station Chatham, along with Coast Guard cutters Eastwind, Unimak, Yakutat, Acushnet, and McCulloch, as well as various aircraft, coordinated the rescue of 38 crew from the sinking Fort Mercer.
All are invited to attend an open house at Base Support Unit Boston to commemorate these rescues. The open house will feature guest speakers, imagery, artifacts, and the opportunity to meet those actually involved with the rescues.
This invitation is extended to the public so all are encouraged to invite family and friends to learn more about this proud chapter in Coast Guard history.
Event: OPEN HOUSE for 60th anniversaryof Pendleton/FortMercer Rescues
Date: Feb. 15, 2012
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Coast Guard Base Boston (North End), 427 Commercial Street, Boston, MA
Parking will not be available on base, but BSU Boston is near North Station.
RSVP: Credentialed media representatives should contact Coast Guard Public Affairs at 617-223-8515 to facilitate entry.
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