Veteran Coxswain Leaves Plymouth RNLI

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Post on Jan 23, 2025

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Veteran Coxswain Leaves Plymouth RNLI: The End of an Era

So, it's official. After what feels like a lifetime – okay, maybe 25 years – I've hung up my oilskins for good. Retirement from the Plymouth RNLI. Bittersweet, to say the least. It feels like the end of a chapter, a huge chunk of my life, honestly. There are so many stories, so many rescues... so many close calls. This isn't just about me, though, it's about the whole team, the incredible people I've worked alongside.

The Thrill and the Terror: Life as a Coxswain

Being a coxswain wasn't easy, let me tell you. It's not all glamour and heroism, like they show on TV. Sure, there were moments of pure adrenaline, pulling people from the jaws of death – literally. I remember one particularly nasty night, a ferocious storm, 40-foot waves, and a fishing trawler in serious trouble. We battled the elements for hours; honestly thought we weren't gonna make it back. My heart was hammering, my hands were numb, but we did it. We got those guys back safely to shore. That was the good stuff. That's why you do it.

The Hardest Part: Saying Goodbye

But there were also the quieter moments, the ones that stay with you long after the adrenaline fades. The families waiting on the shore, their faces etched with worry… those are the images that haunt you. And then there were the losses. I've seen too many things that no one should ever have to see. It's a tough job, and it takes a toll. Leaving isn't just about me; it's about knowing I’m leaving my crew behind, knowing they'll be facing those same storms, facing those same heart-stopping moments.

Lessons Learned: More Than Just Knots

Now, I've always been a hands-on kind of guy. I learned early on that leadership isn't just about barking orders. It's about building trust, understanding your team, and knowing your limitations. A good coxswain isn't afraid to ask for help; it shows strength and builds confidence in everyone. We regularly did training exercises, ensuring our teams were always prepared. Drills focused on:

• Emergency response: Quick deployment, handling medical situations, and coordinating with other rescue units.
• Navigation skills: Mastering charts, compasses, and GPS technology was essential, especially in challenging weather conditions.
• Teamwork and communication: We constantly reviewed teamwork, communication protocol, and risk assessment.

These were critical skills to handle maritime emergencies and severe weather conditions.

What's Next? A New Chapter

I’m not going to lie; retirement is kinda scary. I'm used to that adrenaline, that constant purpose. What am I going to do with all my spare time? Honestly, I don't know yet! Maybe I’ll finally get around to writing that book I’ve always talked about. Or maybe I'll just spend more time with the grandkids, teaching them about the sea. Whatever it is, I'll still keep a close eye on the Plymouth RNLI. After all, they're family.

Important Note: This blog post focuses on a personal experience and doesn't provide official RNLI information. For accurate data on the Plymouth RNLI and its operations, please visit the official RNLI website. Always support your local RNLI if you can. They do incredible work, and they deserve all the help they can get.