When reading this thread, I get the feeling that some people think that the RAF is the only institution that can provide professional SAR service. Have a look at this:
Many congratulations to our Stornoway-based Coastguard helicopter winchman Phil Warrington, who was yesterday (Thursday June 4 2009) presented with The Billy Deacon SAR Memorial Trophy in recognition of a courageous rescue operation last year.
Phil was presented with the trophy at the Air League’s Annual Awards Ceremony at Buckingham Palace by HRH Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh.
The full 2009 citation reads:
At 0530am on February 1 2008 Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 100, based at Stornoway, was called out to assist a Spanish fishing vessel, the Spinningdale, which had run aground at St Kilda with 14 persons onboard.
The stricken vessel was lying on rocks immediately below cliffs, with waves crashing over its entire length, and there was concern that it may be in immediate danger of capsizing.
When the aircraft reached the scene, weather conditions were extremely hostile, with winds gusting to 70 knots causing severe turbulence. Snow showers were also moving through, greatly compromising visibility, and the sea state was described as severe.
The winching operation was undertaken from a height of approximately 130 feet – significantly higher than normal, but necessary to preserve aircraft safety because of the potential risks posed by the turbulence.
Winch operator Larry Slater skilfully worked with pilot Liz Forsyth and co pilot Michael Melaye to position the aircraft above the Spinningdale and deliver winchman Phil Warrington to the deck of the vessel.
Once on deck Phil immediately took charge of the situation and started the recovery of the crew, placing two at a time in strops and ensuring the safe dispatch of the crewman to the helicopter via the winch. The conditions were so severe that each time a wave broke over the vessel, Phil had to hang on to the guard rails to avoid being washed over the side by the mountainous waves.
He endured these conditions for 30 minutes until all 14 crew had been recovered to the aircraft before finally being winched back to the helicopter.
Phil and Larry then immediately set about checking crew members for injuries or hypothermia during the return flight.
Phil displayed outstanding bravery and professionalism, descending to the deck without hesitation in appalling conditions to ensure the safe rescue of the entire crew of the fishing vessel.
This was done by a civilian crew (CHC) using the S-92. Whether some of them worked in the military in the past is not really interesting. They are now working in the civilian world and know their job.
