Coastal GA News

U.S. Representative Buddy Carter, alongside Coast Guard officials, has recognized maritime partners for their critical response during the capsizing of the motor vessel Golden Ray. The awards presentation underscored the partners' integral roles in ensuring safety and protecting the environment when faced with this maritime disaster.

Representative Carter's office issued a press release where Carter praised the bravery, heroism, and skill shown by the Seventh District maritime partners of the Coast Guard. These individuals were instrumental in preventing further damage following the Golden Ray's capsizing in 2019. Carter remarked: "The bravery, heroism, and skill displayed by the Coast Guard’s Seventh District maritime partners, who stepped in quickly to save lives and prevent further damage following the Golden Ray’s capsizing in 2019, is commendable. Moran Towing, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and Brunswick Harbor Pilots are more than deserving of this award and recognition."

Additionally noted in Carter's press release were various individuals awarded for their exceptional service during this event. Among these was Captain Jonathan K. Tennant from Brunswick Pilots who was honored with both a Coast Guard Public Service Commendation as well as a Meritorious Public Service Award for his outstanding decision-making throughout the incident.

Carter partnered with Rear Admiral Douglas Schofield to distribute awards to members of Moran Towing, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and Brunswick Pilots at a ceremony held at Southeast Georgia Conference Center according to another statement from Representative Carter's office.

Representative Carter's office also clarified that while a Public Service Commendation acknowledges personal contributions that align with Coast Guard missions; on the other hand, a Meritorious Public Service Award is intended to recognize exceptional courage, substantial contributions and unique accomplishments that benefit public service. The latter is considered one of the highest honors given by the Coast Guard.

Lastly it is crucial to remember that an NY Daily News report highlighted how on September 9th 2019, all four crew members trapped in the capsized cargo ship off Georgia's coast were successfully rescued after nearly two days inside the overturned vessel, as reported by Coast Guard officials. The Golden Ray, carrying 23 crew members and a U.S. harbor pilot, along with 4,000 cars, caught fire and capsized which resulted in a rescue operation that culminated in the safe extraction of all crew members. Efforts subsequently shifted towards environmental protection response and vessel recovery.