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NEW ORLEANS — The Coast Guard rescued two boaters after their vessel began taking on water near Pensacola, Florida, Sunday. 

Coast Guard Sector Mobile watchstanders received a mayday call at approximately 10 a.m. over VHF channel 16  of a 35-foot recreational vessel taking on water near the Bob Sykes Bridge in Pensacola. Watchstanders coordinated the launch of a Station Pensacola 45-foot Response Boat — Medium boatcrew to assist.

The Coast Guard Cutter Ridley crew, already underway, diverted to the scene, as well as an Aviation Training Center HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircrew to provide additional on-scene support.

The boaters aboard fired two flares and inflated a dinghy as their vessel took on water.  The Response Boat – Medium boatcrew arrived on scene, rescued both boaters and brought them safely back to shore with no reported injuries.

“We strongly urge all mariners to wear life jackets, carry a VHF radio, and have a plan in case you find yourself needing assistance on the water,” Said Cmdr. Kathleen Sullivan, a Sector Mobile search and rescue mission coordinator.

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-USCG-