A feature article about US Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Andrew Heald’s encounter with a shark off of New Smyrna Beach recently appeared at D7 Public Affairs.

Heald was surfing on September 2, when he found himself in the middle of a school of baitfish. Soon after, he saw the dorsal fin of what he believes was a blacktip shark. Upon trying to catch a wave into shore Heald was rammed and bitten on his leg by the shark. He was able to catch a wave into shore and was taken to a nearby medical center where he received stitches for his injuries. Heald returned to the water as soon as his injuries were healed. For the full-story visit US Coast Guard’s D7 Public Affairs.

Thanks to author, Petty Officer 3rd Class Cindy Beckert, for sending along the link to her article!