HONOLULU -- Petty Officer 3rd Class Abram Heller, an aviation survival technician stationed at Air Station Barbers Point, was awarded the distinguished flying cross for extrodinary heroism. Heller saved eight people who were stranded from their fishing vessel, the Alaska Ranger, in frigid water, March 23, 2008, 120 miles west of Dutch Harbor, Alaska. Heller was recognized at the Coast Guard Foundation Awards Dinner in Anchorage, Alaska, Aug. 14, 2008. (USCG photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Sara Francis) Saving Lives and Guarding the Coast Since 1790. The United States Coast Guard -- Proud History. Powerful Future.