USS Terry's First Airplane Rescue at Sea
January 30th, 1911
January 30th, 1911
How Long Ago?
114 years, 1 month, 15 days ago
Location
Havana, Cuba
Category
Military & Warfare
People
- Douglas McCurdy
- Crew of USS Terry
Links & References
Tags
USS Terry's First Airplane Rescue at Sea
The USS Terry successfully performed the first airplane rescue at sea, saving Douglas McCurdy approximately 16 kilometers from Havana, Cuba. This pioneering event marked a significant moment in aviation and naval operations, showcasing the potential for military aircraft to conduct lifesaving missions over water, thereby paving the way for future maritime air rescues.
First airplane rescue at sea executed
Rescue approximately 10 miles from Havana
Demonstrated cooperation between aviation and navy
Pioneered future maritime aerial operation techniques
What Happened?
The USS Terry, a United States Navy destroyer, made history by conducting the first recorded airplane rescue at sea when it saved the life of Canadian aviator Douglas McCurdy. McCurdy was piloting a motion picture aircraft during an exhibition flight when he experienced engine failure approximately 10 miles from Havana, Cuba. Stranded and unable to return to shore, he signaled for assistance, prompting the USS Terry to deploy its boats for the rescue.
As the USS Terry approached, McCurdy successfully landed his aircraft on the water, marking a milestone in aviation history. The crew of the destroyer quickly sprang into action, and with remarkable coordination, they managed to rescue McCurdy from the water, ensuring his safe retrieval. This event not only highlighted the effective collaboration between naval ships and emerging aviation technology but also set a precedent for future aerial operations and maritime rescues.
The success of the operation was well-documented in newspapers of the time and contributed to the growing enthusiasm for aviation. It showcased the potential of combining naval forces with aircraft operations, ultimately influencing military strategies involving air and sea components in subsequent years.
Why Does it Matter?
This incident is significant as it represents the dawn of aerial maritime rescue missions. The successful rescue initiated by the USS Terry highlighted the practical applications of aviation in military and civilian contexts. The event served as a precursor to future developments in air-sea rescue techniques, illustrating how airplanes could complement naval operations.
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