MEDIA RELEASE

The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Kiska assisted the crew aboard a disabled vessel approximately 6 miles east of Pohokiki, off the Big Island Sunday, March 3.

Coast Guard watchstanders in the Sector Honolulu Command Center were notified that the 24-foot Mellow Yellow had lost steering at 7:15 a.m. Sunday.

Two people were aboard the vessel.

The Kiska crew arrived to the vessel’s location and transferred engineers to make temporary repairs on the Mellow Yellow’s steering system.

Coast Guardsmen made a very basic rudder system using wood and rope.

Coast Guard engineers remained aboard the vessel and ensured its safe return to Hilo Harbor, using the makeshift rudder.

As the Coast Guard is America’s maritime first responder, the Coast Guard’s professional workforce and locally based units are always ready to respond.

The Coast Guard’s readiness and constant presence on America’s coasts and waterways enable fast, flexible response to assist those in need.