Charleston Pilot Honored for Saving Runaway Ship

Charleston pilot, Christopher Thornton, was honored with the Meritorious Public Service Award by the U.S. Coast Guard on Wednesday for his heroic actions in handling the uncontrolled acceleration of the MSC Michigan VII on June 5.

Rear Adm. Douglas Schofield, commander of Coast Guard Seventh District, and Cmdr. Randy Preston, deputy commander, Coast Guard Sector Charleston, presented the award.

Thornton’s skills were put into play when he navigated the runaway ship for over 20 nautical miles, through five major turns and under the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, all at nearly double the ship’s normal speed, without any major incidents.

The award citation lauded Thornton’s efforts as “nothing short of miraculous” and highlighted his significant contribution towards saving lives, property, and the marine environment.

“His immediate action to not only continue piloting the ship effectively but also notify all port partners of the ship’s mechanical difficulties was vital in protecting the safety of both property and people in and around the greater Charleston waterways,” said Schofield.

The incident took place on June 5, 2024, when the 979-foot containership MSC Michigan VII experienced a loss of engine control on the Cooper River, leading to an uncontrolled acceleration. Despite the vessel reaching speeds as high as 16 knots, Thornton successfully navigated it out of the Charleston Harbor and anchored it offshore.

“Our mission requires us to be prepared for the unexpected, and in this case, our pilot and our staff applied our training and experience to avert a potentially very serious situation that would have impacted the community and the port,” said W. Crayton Walters III, president of the Charleston Branch Pilots Association.

“The quick and astute responses of the Coast Guard, and our local police and fire departments to clear the channels, the beaches, and the bridge ahead of the ship were just as critical to safeguard the public from harm, and we commend each of them for their actions. We are honored to be a part of this community and be of service each and every day,” Walters added.

The Meritorious Public Service Award, the second-highest public service award that the Coast Guard can bestow, recognizes those who have shown unusual courage in advancing a Coast Guard mission or made a substantial contribution that produced tangible results to the public.

Unlock Exclusive Insights Today!

Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.

Sign Up