I have read with interest the many thoughts and opinions associated with this thread. I'm a great believer in that each and every one of us is entitled to their own opinion.
At the end of the day, the guys who were there doing the job know what happened so there is no need to justify their actions. The authorities made the decision to get the crew off the ship and due to the many contributing factors on the day, winching them off was the safest way.
Job well done!