50-caliber shoulder-fired precision weapon Crew: 2 pilots, 1 flight mechanic, 1 rescue swimmer The H-65 helicopter built by Eurocopter America is the U.S. Coast Guard's primary rescue helicopter.

The Coast Guard response to the Washington D.C. plane crash in January included 278 personnel, 11 small boat stations and five cutters.

Cain was one of the first female Coast Guard aviators, earning her wings in 1978. She flew many lifesaving missions as a helicopter pilot, including the rescue of a 3-year-old boy who had fallen ...

When a Coast Guard helicopter crew reached the Big Flat area ... Remember to pack extra food, water and emergency gear to prepare for potential delays.