The civilian vessel issued a man-overboard distress call. Responding to the call, an MH-60 Sea Hawk helicopter from Helicopter Maritime Strike (HSM) Squadron 74, deployed on USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE) immediately began search and rescue (SAR) efforts.

The aircrew located the person, lifted them via basket, and transported them to IKE. The civilian mariner was medically evaluated and treated aboard ship. The mariner was flown off ship for follow-on care ashore.

"Rendering assistance to distressed mariners is a mission that the entire carrier strike group takes very seriously, and it is just the right thing to do," said Rear Adm. Marc Miguez, commander, IKECSG, Carrier Strike Group 2. "As proof of their training, the aircrew responded swiftly and professionally. We are always prepared."

IKECSG is operating in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to support maritime stability and security in the Middle East region.