Suquamish captain and crew honored for helping save two sailors swept overboard from sailboat

On November 15, 2025, Capt. John McMillen and the crew of the Suquamish received a commendation from the United States Sailing Foundation and The Sailing Foundation - Seattle for their life-saving efforts. This recognition stemmed from their quick response during the Possession Point Race on March 8, where two sailors, Sheridan Ferguson and Brent Campbell, were swept off their boat. Upon hearing the distress signal, the Suquamish crew swiftly adjusted their course to assist the rescue operation. They positioned the vessel upwind to shield the rescuers from the harsh conditions at sea.

Both sailors were successfully retrieved from the water and transported to Edmonds for urgent medical care. The commendation emphasizes the critical role of maritime safety and community support in emergencies. The quick actions of the Suquamish crew reflect the strong values of the sailing community in prioritizing safety. Such incidents highlight the ongoing need for preparedness and effective response strategies in sailing events.