Coast Guardsman Dies After Rescue Mission Injury, Honored Before Passing

Tyler Jaggers received a wedding proposal, promotion, and top military award before succumbing to injuries sustained during a medical evacuation off the Washington coast.

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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A U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer named Tyler Jaggers died on Thursday evening after being injured during a medical evacuation mission off the Washington coast. Before his passing, Jaggers was honored with a wedding proposal from his partner, a promotion to petty officer 2nd class, and the Distinguished Flying Cross, one of the military's highest awards for heroism during flight operations.

Why it matters

The tragic death of Petty Officer Jaggers highlights the dangers and sacrifices that Coast Guard members face while carrying out critical search and rescue missions. His story underscores the Coast Guard's vital role in maritime safety and the bravery of its personnel, even in the face of grave personal risk.

The details

Jaggers was part of an Astoria, Oregon-based Coast Guard crew that responded on February 27th to transport a stroke victim from a commercial vessel 120 nautical miles off the Washington coast. During the mission, Jaggers fell as he was being lowered to the deck from a helicopter, though the exact circumstances of his injury are still under investigation. Jaggers was placed on life support and treated at hospitals in Canada and Washington state before succumbing to his injuries on Thursday.

  • On February 27th, Jaggers was injured during a medical evacuation mission off the Washington coast.
  • Jaggers was on life support at hospitals in Victoria, British Columbia, and at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, south of Seattle.
  • Jaggers passed away on Thursday evening.

The players

Tyler Jaggers

A U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer who died after being injured during a medical evacuation mission off the Washington coast.

Cassandra Weaver

Jaggers' partner, who accepted his hospital-room wedding proposal carried out by his family.

Admiral Kevin Lunday

Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, who honored Jaggers with the Distinguished Flying Cross posthumously.

Rick McElrath

Board president and founder of the Coast Guard Helicopter Rescue Swimmer Association, a nonprofit dedicated to helping Coast Guard aviation veterans.

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What they’re saying

“He demonstrated extraordinary heroism in the face of danger, upholding the highest standards of courage and excellence for Coast Guard operations. We honor his selfless actions and unwavering devotion to our highest calling: to save others.”

— Admiral Kevin Lunday, Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard (ksgf.com)

“What I didn't realize was that he had recently told some of his closest buddies that he was getting ready to propose. So yesterday, surrounded by the people who love him most, his family carried out the proposal on Tyler's behalf. I said yes.”

— Cassandra Weaver, Jaggers' partner (ksgf.com)

What’s next

The Coast Guard is conducting an investigation into the cause of Jaggers' injuries sustained during the medical evacuation mission.

The takeaway

The tragic death of Petty Officer Tyler Jaggers underscores the immense bravery and sacrifice of Coast Guard personnel who risk their lives to save others at sea. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the vital role the Coast Guard plays in maritime safety and the heavy price that can sometimes be paid in the line of duty.