BEFORE HARNESSES Tales of the Early Swimmer Program | USCG Rescue Swimmer Matthew Fithian 04 Ep. 185

In this episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined by Matthew Fithian, United States Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer 04.
Fithian shares his experiences and career journey in this podcast episode. He discusses his upbringing, joining the Coast Guard, and various assignments and rescues. Our stories explore moments from his time in boot camp, his work as a flight mechanic, to him becoming Rescue Swimmer 04. Fithian recounts his experiences with helicopter water platform pickups and a rescue where he was hoisted down to a vessel for a victim who had lost his arm. He also mentions the Marine Electric incident and the search for pirates.
Fithian's episode highlights his experiences as a rescue swimmer. We talk about the challenges of being hoisted from a strop and the relief of using harnesses. Matthew shares his memories of going to rescue swimmer school and the determination he had to not quit. He also recounts a daring rescue where he rescued 43 people and a dog from flood waters in Roanoke, VA. Matthew's bravery and dedication earned him an Air Medal for this rescue.
Fithian also talks about his transition to civilian life, working as a truck driver, and his involvement in organizations like the Moose Lodge and Disabled American Veterans. Matthew emphasizes the importance of advancing in one's career and not staying idle. Enjoy!
02:08 - Matthew Fithian Introduction
08:53 - Before becoming ASM
14:48 - Rescuing Downed Air National Guard Pilots out of Cape May
18:28 - Platform Pickups - Landing on water
20:18 - Recuing a Clammer Boat
24:52 - Rescuing arm dismemberment
28:26 - Marine Electric & Stopping Pirates
30:32 - Hoisting to Rescues before the Harness
35:45 - Rescue Swimmer School
41:58 - Air Medal Case - Rescuing 43 people from Flood in Roanoke Virginia
50:00 - 2nd Duty in Air Station Barbers Point, Hawaii
1:01:13 - Duty in Traverse City, MI
1:15:36 - Finding a survivor holding a BIC lighter
1:19:04 - Rescuing a lost hunter
1:22:22 - Advice
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[@matthewfithian891]

My Coast Guard Career. 22 years! 1974-2996

[@therealresq]

An amazing career at that too!

[@matthewfithian891]

High Year Ten-year Kicked me out. Physically Fitz, too many E7,8,9 with 35 plus yeas!