Minneapolis-Saint Paul received notification that motor vessel was taking on water near Cat Island Shoals. Diverting course to provide assistance to the vessel, Minneapolis-Saint Paul then deployed their rigid-hull inflatable boat to rescue the stranded mariner. Minneapolis-Saint Paul safely recovered the stranded mariner and transferred them to a Fire Rescue boat.

“I’m happy and thankful that we were prepared and ready to respond in the event of a worst case scenario,” said the ship’s Primary Search and Rescue (SAR) Swimmer, Sonar Technician 2nd Class Camron Bates.

Recently commissioned in Duluth, Minnesota, Minneapolis-Saint Paul is the 11th Freedom-variant LCS and the second naval ship to honor Minnesota’s Twin Cities.

“Our ship’s motto is ‘I will either find a way or make one’,” said Cmdr. Alfonza White, Commanding Officer of Minneapolis-Saint Paul. “I’m incredibly proud of the Sailors aboard Minneapolis-Saint Paul whose actions reflected that ideal today.

The Littoral Combat Ship is a fast, agile, mission-focused platform designed to operate in near-shore environments, winning against 21st-century coastal threats. The LCS is capable of supporting forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence.