As expected we found only a few vessels in the search area, all of which were underway and showing no signs of distress. After an hour on scene, we reported to SMC that we were 75% complete with our assigned pattern and requested further tasking. While waiting for the response, the Copilot called out, “Flare!” Levels of alertness quickly doubled as we asked him for a direction. “It was straight ahead. Above the horizon.” Then the right observer said, “I just saw one at one O’Clock.” We turned in the direction of the last
As expected we found only a few vessels in the search area, all of which were underway and showing no signs of distress. After an hour on scene, we reported to SMC that we were 75% complete with our assigned pattern and requested further tasking. While waiting for the response, the Copilot called out, “Flare!” Levels of alertness quickly doubled as we asked him for a direction. “It was straight ahead. Above the horizon.” Then the right observer said, “I just saw one at one O’Clock.” We turned in the direction of the last