During a special ceremony at the 2025 Maine Fishermen’s Forum, the U.S. Coast Guard, District 1, was honored for its heroic rescue of the crew of the Maine fishing vessel Three Girls.

On Sunday, August 11, 2024, the Three Girls issued a Mayday distress call: “United States Coast Guard, this is the fishing vessel Three Girls. We are on fire. We are going to be abandoning ship.” The First Coast Guard District command center in Boston also received an Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon alert from the vessel.

The USCG Cutter William Chadwick and an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter were dispatched to respond to the emergency. The fishing vessels Princess Laura and Maria JoAnn stood by to assist.

All five crew members and a federal fisheries observer were safely rescued from their life raft by the Coast Guard, with no injuries reported. The survivors were later transferred to the USCG pier in South Portland, Maine.

Lieutenant Commander Brent Lane of William Chadwick stated in the release, “I couldn’t be prouder of our crew’s swift response in this rescue. Their dedication and skill were crucial to the successful outcome, but it’s also a stark reminder of the importance of having the right safety equipment at all times. This rescue highlights that preparation and proper gear are as vital as the bravery and professionalism our team consistently displays.”

Hank Soule, President of the Maine Fishermen’s Forum, expressed gratitude for the Coast Guard’s swift and courageous actions. “We are deeply thankful for the readiness and bravery of the Coast Guard. Their critical role ensures the safety and safe return of our fishermen to their families and our fishing community,” he said.

The Maine Fishermen’s Forum is proud to recognize the Coast Guard’s invaluable contributions to the safety of the region’s fishing industry.