Heroes at sea honoured at awards ceremony

Remarkable stories of skill and gallantry at sea, as well as support for local maritime communities, have been recognised and rewarded at a national awards ceremony held in London.

The crew of the Stornoway SAR helicopter, Rescue 948, Lt Daniel Burnett of 847 Naval Air Squadron, and two dedicated volunteers from the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society were among those honoured at the charity’s annual Skill and Gallantry Awards ceremony. Each was celebrated for their significant contributions and exceptional dedication to the maritime community.

A Crew Commendation was awarded to the Stornoway SAR helicopter team, Rescue 948, for their meritorious actions in rescuing two severely injured fishermen from a Spanish fishing vessel. Early on 29th November 2023, the team encountered perilous conditions over 100 miles from Stornoway.

Despite the squally weather and heavy seas, the crew’s professionalism and exceptional scene management ensured the survival of both casualties. Their quick, decisive actions, combined with their ability to administer lifesaving first aid whilst overcoming significant language barriers, reflect the highest standards of professionalism and teamwork.

Lieutenant Daniel Burnett received an Individual Commendation for his outstanding airmanship during a critical MEDEVAC mission. On 20th September 2023, Lt Burnett skilfully managed a serious engine malfunction just 30nm into a 100nm flight from HMS Queen Elizabeth to Newcastle Hospital. With three MEDEVAC passengers onboard and a significant risk of catastrophic rotor overspeed, Lt Burnett’s exceptional technical knowledge and composed leadership averted disaster. His remarkable decision-making ensured the safe recovery of the aircraft and the lives of all aboard, exemplifying the finest traditions of the Fleet Air Arm.

Lord Lewin Awards for outstanding service to the charity were also presented to two of the Society’s volunteers. The staff of Queen Victoria Seamen’s Rest (QVSR) in Poplar, London, were honoured for their diligent support to seafarers living both within the “Queen Vic” and the local community. Their exceptional commitment and proactive approach in completing grant applications and beneficiary reviews have made a substantial impact.

James Ryeland, Honorary Agent from Dover, was also recognised for his longstanding dedication over 27 years and exceptional fundraising efforts, including managing the Society’s large collecting mine in Dover, overseeing an extensive restoration project, and facilitating the relocation of several mines.
The honours were presented at the Society’s 185th Annual General Meeting held at Fishmongers’ Hall in London on Tuesday 1 October.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chief Executive of the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society, Captain Justin Osmond RN, commented: “Our Skill and Gallantry Awards, which we’ve presented for 173 nears, are a testament to the incredible bravery, technical expertise, and steadfast dedication of the maritime community.

“Those being honoured this year have shown remarkable courage, skill and commitment to supporting seafarers in need and these awards are a celebration of their exceptional actions and the profound impact they have on our maritime community.”

The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society offers support to those across the UK that are suffering hardship during, or after fulfilling their life at sea. The charity aims to offer support to seafarers, and their dependants, to make a positive difference to their lives. The charity continues to provide help to thousands of individuals each year by offering financial and practical support to those in need, and last year launched an additional support fund to further help seafarers in need affected by the cost-of-living crisis.