APRIL 27, 2026 — A Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Air Facility Newport rescued an injured 25-year-old man who was stranded on a cliffside at Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint near Depoe Bay, Oregon, Saturday morning.
At approximately 10:00 A.M. watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Columbia River received a request for assistance from the Willamette Valley Communications Center who reported the individual sustained an ankle injury and was unable to safely extricate himself from a cliffside position approximately 10 feet above the water.
Due to rising tide conditions and the subject’s location, first responders determined additional assistance was required to safely recover the individual.
At approximately 10:25 A.M. an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Air Facility Newport arrived on scene and successfully hoisted the individual from the cliffside.
The patient was then transported and transferred to awaiting emergency personnel.
“Rescues like this highlight the importance of programs like the Advanced Helicopter Rescue School, which focuses on training for contingencies such as inland search and rescue and cliffside rescue,” said Lt. Travis Weaver, MH-65 pilot in command during the rescue. “Being able to train for events like this before they happen make for safe and effective rescues when our partners call on us for help.”
U.S. Coast Guard Northwest District Public Affairs
(206) 220-7237