PUERTO RICO January 12, 2026 — The U.S. Coast Guard demonstrated exceptional skill and bravery in a dramatic nighttime helicopter rescue operation, saving a 68-year-old man who had been stranded on rocky outcrops for over 30 hours near Aguadilla, Puerto Rico.
The rescue took place on January 9-10, 2026, after the man, an experienced surfer, was reported missing by his Airbnb host when he failed to return from a surfing session at Surfer’s Beach. Search efforts involving multiple agencies located the survivor clinging to rocks amid rough seas and poor visibility in the dead of night.
A Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Air Station Borinquen executed a precise hoist operation despite challenging conditions, including high waves, rocky terrain, and low light. Dramatic infrared footage released by the Coast Guard shows a rescue swimmer being lowered to the stranded man, who is seen waving weakly before being secured and hoisted safely into the helicopter alongside the swimmer.
The survivor was transported to emergency medical services in stable condition, with no serious injuries reported despite the prolonged exposure.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem praised the operation on social media, stating: “The men and women of the @USCG are the best of the best in the world at what they do… America is blessed to have them keeping watch.”
The rescue has been hailed as a testament to the Coast Guard’s expertise in search-and-rescue missions, highlighting their ability to operate effectively in extreme conditions to save lives.
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