In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn is joined by Tony Puglia, U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer #499.

Puglia and Quinn graduated together from the U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer “A” School, Class 10-00. In this episode, they catch up and reflect on Puglia’s impressive career in the USCG.

Starting at his first unit post-swimmer school in Hawaii, Puglia shares the story of his first rescue, where he had to perform CPR on a victim in the water. We also touch on his end-of-tour Letter of Commendation, which highlights his role in saving 14 lives.

Moving to his next unit in Humboldt Bay, California, Puglia recalls a dramatic rescue of three fishermen who were swept out to sea by powerful currents, as well as a rescue involving two men on a sailboat that capsized right next to him.

Next, we dive into his time at HITRON in Jacksonville, Florida, where he encountered some unique challenges, including discovering a semi-submersible vessel loaded with contraband and a thrilling pursuit that ended with the engines of a "go-fast" boat being shot out.

Puglia then takes us back to Hawaii, where he earned an Achievement Medal and was involved in multiple rescues. One standout was saving three fishermen whose boat capsized and drifted out to sea, earning him a Letter of Commendation for rescuing eight survivors from a sunken vessel.

Finally, we wrap up Puglia's last assignment in Sitka, Alaska, where he conducted numerous rescues. He discusses a particularly noteworthy rescue that earned him another Letter of Commendation, as well as his third and fourth Coast Guard Achievement Medals. He also talks about a significant plane crash that garnered major news attention and shares the story of his final rescue mission before retiring. Enjoy!

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