Sea Tow Captains Honored for Barnegat Bay Rescue

Captains Walt Bohn and Dan Siegel recognized for saving a stranded clammer in frigid conditions

Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:22pm

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Sea Tow Central New Jersey Captains Walt Bohn and Dan Siegel have been honored by Sea Tow Services International and received a congressional proclamation from U.S. Rep. Jefferson Van Drew for a nighttime rescue in Barnegat Bay that saved a 72-year-old clammer who had spent 12 hours stranded on a sandbar in freezing conditions.

Why it matters

The rescue highlights the critical role that Sea Tow and its experienced captains play in keeping boaters safe on the waters around New Jersey's Barnegat Bay, which can be treacherous, especially in inclement weather. The recognition of Bohn and Siegel's heroism also underscores the value that the community places on their lifesaving efforts.

The details

Bohn and Siegel, working with the U.S. Coast Guard, found the stranded clammer, John Mazzi, at around 2 a.m. roughly 200 yards from his boat. Mazzi had spent about 12 hours fighting to survive after becoming stranded on a sandbar in shallow water in freezing conditions. The Sea Tow crew brought Mazzi aboard their vessel, and a Coast Guard rescue swimmer and basket were then lowered to the boat, allowing Mazzi to be airlifted to an ambulance and taken to a local hospital for treatment.

  • On the night of the incident, Bohn and Siegel responded to the call and located Mazzi around 2 a.m.
  • Mazzi had been stranded for approximately 12 hours before being rescued.

The players

Walt Bohn

Captain and general manager of Sea Tow Central New Jersey.

Dan Siegel

Captain of Sea Tow Central New Jersey.

John Mazzi

A 72-year-old clammer who was stranded on a sandbar in Barnegat Bay for 12 hours.

Jefferson Van Drew

U.S. Representative who issued a congressional proclamation honoring Bohn and Siegel for their heroic rescue efforts.

Kristen Frohnhoefer

President of Sea Tow Services International, the company that presented Bohn and Siegel with the 'Efforts Above and Beyond' award.

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What they’re saying

“Captain Dan Siegel and Captain Walter Bohn represent the very best of New Jersey. When others are heading in because the weather turns or the situation gets tough, these men head out to help.”

— Jefferson Van Drew, U.S. Representative

“The recognition was meaningful and reflected the crew's commitment to protecting area boaters.”

— Walt Bohn, Captain and General Manager, Sea Tow Central New Jersey

What’s next

The Sea Tow captains will be honored at an upcoming community event in Waretown to celebrate their heroic actions and commitment to water safety.

The takeaway

This rescue mission underscores the vital role that experienced, dedicated captains like Bohn and Siegel play in keeping boaters safe on the treacherous waters of Barnegat Bay, even in the most challenging conditions. Their lifesaving efforts have earned the respect and gratitude of the local community and beyond.