Assisting and escorting the Renda
The Coast Guard Cutter Healy breaks ice for the Russian-flagged tanker vessel Renda approximately 155 miles south of Nome, Alaska, Jan. 8, 2012.
The 420-foot Seattle-based cutter Healy has been assisting and escorting the Renda, which is carrying more than 1.3 million gallons of fuel for the city of Nome.
U.S. Coast Guard video by Petty Officer 3rd Class Jonathan Lally.
BERING SEA – The tanker vessel Renda closely follows the Coast Guard Cutter Healy as it makes a path through the ice Jan. 8, 2012.
The Healy and the Renda are approximately 155 miles south of Nome and are proceeding with caution to ensure the crews, vessels, and cargo arrive safely to Nome.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by Seaman Benjamin Nocerini.
BERING SEA – Crewmembers of the Coast Guard Cutter Healy observe the tanker vessel Renda as it follows their trail through the ice.
The Healy and Renda are currently 150 miles south of Nome and are proceeding at approximately five knots. Sitnasuak Native Corporation of Nome signed a contract with Vitus Marine LLC to deliver 1.3 million gallons of petroleum products to Nome via Renda around the second week of January. If successful, this will mark the first time that petroleum products have been delivered by sea to a Western Alaskan community through ice covered waters.
“This has been and continues to be a highly orchestrated effort between all stakeholders to ensure mission success” said Rear Adm. Thomas Ostebo, District 17 commander. “As we have done for more than 220 years, the Coast Guard is dedicated to ensuring the safe and secure transfer of maritime commerce. The Healy, our nation’s only operating polar ice breaker, and its crew are committed to upholding our long history of service to the residents of Alaska.”
Source: USCG