On Nov. 24, 2025, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) recognized members of 103 Search and Rescue Squadron with a Certificate of Commendation for Exceptional Bravery at Sea at IMO Headquarters in London, U.K., for rescuing the crew from a disabled cargo vessel near Lark Harbour, Newfoundland, on Feb. 15, 2025.
The crew of Rescue 901 (R901) being recognized included aircraft commander Capt Matthew Cox; first officer Major Pete Wright; flight engineer MCpl Todd Osmond; and search-and-rescue (SAR) technicians Warrant Officer Gregory Hudson, Sgt Sebastian Gaudet, MCpl Gary Normore, and Sgt Alain Goguen, who showed remarkable resolve, courage, and tenacity during the rescue.
These qualities, a hallmark of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) SAR crews, enable the CAF to work with partners to deliver 24/7 aeronautical SAR services across Canada.
During this mission, a CH-149 Cormorant helicopter from 103 Search and Rescue Squadron was deployed to assist the disabled cargo vessel MSC Baltic III, which had 20 crew members aboard, including four injured personnel.
Extreme weather conditions posed a significant challenge to the operation, with waves over five metres tall and winds stronger than 75 kilometers per hour.
As R901 began hoist operations, it was discovered that the upper deck of the vessel was completely iced over, and that the vessel was rapidly deteriorating.
R901 assessed that due to the vessel’s rapid deterioration, it was necessary to extract all crew members as soon as possible. Over the next 60 minutes, R901 systematically hoisted all crew members safely and effectively while battling the dangerous weather conditions.
Despite severe weather, hazardous sea conditions, and a rapidly deteriorating vessel, the R901 crew executed a challenging SAR operation during a once-in-a-lifetime SAR event.
The success of this mission was a direct result of exceptional teamwork, clear communication, and adaptability under extreme conditions.
“I am proud of the accomplishments of Rescue 901 from 103 Search and Rescue Squadron,” said said LGen Steve Boivin, commander, Canadian Joint Operations Command.
“The team displayed tremendous courage, tenacity, and technical expertise during this rescue, embodying the very best of who we are as Canadian Armed Forces members. The international recognition of our search-and-rescue team highlights the excellence and precision that our search-and-rescue operations demand to save lives under the most challenging circumstances.”
“The actions of Rescue 901 exemplify the courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment that define the Royal Canadian Air Force,” said LGen Jamie Speiser-Blanchet, commander, Royal Canadian Air Force.
“Faced with extreme conditions and immense risk, this crew demonstrated exceptional skill and determination to save lives. Their recognition by the International Maritime Organization is a testament not only to their bravery but to the world-class search-and-rescue capability Canada provides every day. I could not be prouder of these individuals and the standard they set for all of us.”
“On behalf of everyone at 9 Wing Gander, I extend my deepest congratulations to the crew of Rescue 901 for their extraordinary courage and professionalism during the rescue of the MSC Baltic III on Feb. 15, 2025,” said said LCol Bob Mitchell, Commander, 9 Wing Gander.
“Faced with extreme weather, high seas, and a rapidly deteriorating vessel, this crew demonstrated the highest standards of skill, determination, and teamwork. Their actions under such perilous conditions reflect not only their individual bravery but the steadfast commitment of every member of 103 Search and Rescue Squadron to the preservation of life at sea.
“This international recognition, by the International Maritime Organization, is a proud moment for the entire Wing and for the community of Gander. It underscores the vital role our search and rescue crews play—often at great personal risk—in safeguarding mariners across the North Atlantic.”
QuickFacts
- The CAF have the main responsibility for coordinating the national response for air and maritime SAR from Joint Rescue Coordination Centres across Canada. The Canadian Coast Guard has the main responsibility of responding to maritime SAR events, and the CAF is responsible for responding to aeronautical SAR events.
- CAF aircraft and crews are tasked to respond to about 1000 SAR missions every year.
- The CAF have five primary SAR units located across the country, providing eight dedicated aircraft. These aircraft and aircrews are on standby 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
This press release was prepared and distributed by Canada’s Department of National Defence.
