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Coast Guard Rescues Two Teens and Firefighter From Oregon’s God’s Thumb

Authorities warn that costly Coast Guard cliff rescues highlight persistent hazards at God’s Thumb.

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The two 14-year-olds were flown to a nearby beach and reunited with their families.

Overview

  • On July 5, an MH-60 helicopter from Coast Guard Air Station Astoria deployed a rescue swimmer who rappelled down to secure two 14-year-olds and a Lincoln County firefighter before hoisting them to safety.
  • All three were flown to Siletz Bay State Airfield and released uninjured after medical evaluation at a local hospital.
  • It was at least the second Coast Guard–assisted cliff rescue at the landmark this year, following multiple earlier operations for stranded hikers.
  • Local emergency officials estimate each helicopter deployment ties up first responders and carries a roughly $20,000 price tag in aviation and personnel costs.
  • Lincoln County fire and rescue agencies have renewed public advisories urging visitors to stay on marked trails to avoid hidden vertical sections and unstable rock.