The United States Coast Guard and communities across the Pacific Northwest are mourning the loss of Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Jaggers, a rescue swimmer who died after being critically injured during a lifesaving mission off the coast of Washington State.
According to information released by the U.S. Coast Guard, the incident occurred on February 27 when a helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Astoria, located in Astoria, Oregon, was dispatched to assist a mariner experiencing a serious medical emergency more than 120 miles offshore near Cape Flattery.
During the nighttime rescue operation, Tyler Jaggers, who served as the rescue swimmer for the mission, entered the water as part of the effort to evacuate the ill mariner.
While performing his duties in challenging offshore conditions, Jaggers suffered critical injuries during the operation.
Following the incident, Jaggers was transported for medical treatment and remained under intensive care while fellow Coast Guard members, family, and friends awaited updates on his condition.
Despite days of medical efforts to save him, the Coast Guard later confirmed that Petty Officer Tyler Jaggers passed away on March 5.
Jaggers had joined the United States Coast Guard in 2022 and began serving at Air Station Astoria in 2024, where he worked as a rescue swimmer, one of the Coast Guard’s most demanding operational roles.
Rescue swimmers are specially trained personnel responsible for entering dangerous maritime environments to save lives during emergencies at sea.
In recognition of his service, courage, and sacrifice during the mission, the Coast Guard announced that Tyler Jaggers was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.
He was also advanced in rank following his death, honoring his actions during the rescue attempt.
Members of the Coast Guard highlighted the service motto of rescue swimmers — “So Others May Live.”
Officials said Jaggers exemplified that commitment throughout his service and during his final mission.
The community in Astoria, Oregon, along with Coast Guard personnel across the country, has expressed condolences to the family and colleagues of Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Jaggers, remembering him as a dedicated service member who gave his life while attempting to help someone in distress at sea.
