A Coast Guard aircrew rescued a 40-year-old male who had become caught in strong currents while surfing near Willapa Bay, Saturday afternoon.

A Coast Guard Sector Columbia River aircrew, aboard an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter, safely recovered and transported the surfer to shore, where Emergency Medical Service personnel were waiting.

Coast Guard Sector Columbia River Command Center watchstanders received a call from Pacific County 911 personnel requesting rescue assistance at approximately 2 p.m.

Three surfers had been in the water when one was swept away by strong currents and went missing for approximately 30 minutes.

Two of the surfers made it back to shore but could not locate their friend. An acquaintance of the surfers made the emergency call to Pacific County.

Sector watchstanders launched the aircrew and a Station Grays Harbor boat crew aboard a 47-foot Motor Life Boat.

The helicopter crew was able to locate the individual in the water with help from locals on shore, who managed to keep the surfer in view until the rescue crew arrived.

The helicopter crew recovered the surfer at 3:15 p.m., landed the helo on the beach and transported him to medical personnel for further assistance.