PORTSMOUTH, Va. –The Coast Guard teamed with Virginia Beach Police dispatch to rescue two people from the water approximately one mile east of Cape Henry, Va., last night after their 17-foot catamaran boat capsized in 10-foot seas and 30 to 40-knot winds.

Coast Guard Group Hampton Roads received a call from Virginia Beach Police dispatch stating there were two people, Jeff Fields and Christian Theurer, clinging to their overturned catamaran vessel. Virginia Beach Police dispatch had communications with one of the men in the water via the person’s cell phone. Group Hampton Roads then took the cellular call. Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City launched a rescue helicopter and Coast Guard Station Little Creek launched a 47-foot rescue boat.

Fortunately, Fields and Theurer were wearing lifejackets and carrying flares. They were able to direct the Coast Guard helicopter to their position by firing off three red flares.

The rescue helicopter crew saw the flares and were able to locate and hoist Fields and Theurer safely into the aircraft. Fields and Ghereur were flown to Naval Air Station Oceana and picked up by emergency medical personnel.

With cold weather on its way, the Coast Guard encourages all boaters to wear their lifejackets and carry flares. These items assisted in the survival of Fields and Theurer and prompted a timely and successful rescue by the Coast Guard.

USCG