comdtinst m16114.32c - U.S. Coast Guard

Part 2 – Operations and Missions
Chapter 5 – Mission Types
SAR Mission Organization
B.6. SAR
Coordinator (SC)
B.6.a. SAR
Mission
Coordinator
(SMC)
B.6.b. On-Scene
Coordinator
(OSC)
The District Commander, as SAR Coordinator (SC), mandates the SAR
mission organization, assigning responsibilities for the SAR Mission
Coordinator (SMC), On-Scene Coordinator (OSC), and Search and
Rescue Unit(s) (SRU) for any mission.
SAR operations are carried out under the guidance of a SAR Mission
Coordinator (SMC). The SMC shall normally be delegated at the Sector
level.
The SMC shall designate an On-Scene Coordinator (OSC) to coordinate
SAR actions. A Coast Guard unit may serve as a shore-based OSC if
communications and adequately trained personnel are available.
(01) The first unit on scene assumes OSC until the SMC directs that
unit be relieved.
(02) OSCs should be thoroughly familiar with Reference (p) and
appropriate SAR plans (District, Area, Sector, etc.).
B.6.c. Search and
Rescue Unit
(SRU)
A Search and Rescue Unit (SRU) is a unit with trained personnel and
equipment for SAR operations. Unit personnel, boats, or vehicles may
be used as SRUs.
(01) SRUs are subordinate to the OSC (and SMC).
(02) SRUs should be staffed, equipped and proficient in the SAR
necessary to accomplish the mission.
skills
NOTE
If an SRU is alone on scene, the SRU shall perform OSC duties and keep the SMC
advised.
2-97