A Daring Naval Rescue

November 2020 saw an extraordinary rescue, one that’s only ever occurred twice in United States history. After the combat vessel, the USS DETROIT, suffered an engine failure off the coast of Florida, a commercial tug ship, the AHTS GARY CHOUEST, successfully — and safely — towed the vessel to the nearby Port Canaveral, FL. 
 
AHTS GARY CHOUEST Captain Joe Borkowski explained, “This was an emergency tow. No power whatsoever, so it was different. And I sure did not like it — not one bit — but something needed to be done.” 
 
The vessel’s namesake, Gary Chouest, added, “This is the second time in history that a privately-owned vessel tows an active U.S. military vessel. The AHTS GARY CHOUEST towed both.” 
 
We are inspired by how the players in this situation embodied the values we at Check-6 hold so dear: Honor, Courage, Commitment, Accountability, and Teamwork. Their story demonstrates that anyone with integrity has the potential to be a hero, regardless of rank or station.