The Ford Plantation is proud to announce the United States Coast Guard’s recognition of The Ford Plantation staff member Danny Sharpe. Sharpe, himself a USCG-certified captain, will receive the Coast Guard Certificate of Appreciation for his selfless actions during the rescue of three people after their boat capsized in chilly waters off Wassaw Sound last fall. A recognition ceremony will take place at The Ford Plantation Silk Hope Marina at 3:30pm on Friday, March 29, 2019.

The stranded boaters notified The Ford Plantation security officers via mobile phone who immediately relayed the emergency to the United States Coast Guard, and Mike Womble, who manages marina operations at The Ford Plantation. Sharpe, guiding a fishing tour in the area for The Ford Plantation, was alerted by Womble of the capsized boat in his proximity. As the first boat to arrive at the scene, Sharpe maneuvered the craft to conduct the rescue and began pulling the boaters to safety from the frigid water. His swift reaction and emergency training enabled him to locate and retrieve the distressed boaters who had been floating in the cold water for 30 minutes.

Once safely aboard, Sharpe transported the rescued boaters to the nearest marina for medical attention. Thanks to the urgent actions of Mr. Sharpe, the boaters suffered no serious injuries.