Coastguard rescue officers praised for 'highest standard of professionalism'

Members of HM Coastguard have been highly praised for going above and beyond in the line of duty, with individual Chief Coastguard Commendations and Letters of Appreciation.

Shetland coastguards from Lerwick, Walls and Sumburgh rescue teams were last week recognised by Assistant Chief Coastguard Matt Leat for their part in a particularly difficult rescue at The Knab in Lerwick in 2021.

They were awarded at a special ceremony held on the rescheduled Emergency Services Day on October 19.

Proud members of the Lerwick, Walls and Sumburgh coastguard rescue teams with their certificates                                                            Credit: Brian D Gray


Area Commander Dave Sweeney, who was also awarded a Letter of Appreciation for his role in the rescue, said: “This was an extremely technically challenging incident, which required skill and teamwork to bring it to a successful conclusion.

“Our coastguard rescue officers have shown the highest standard of professionalism and have quite rightly been recognised for their individual actions.

“I am immensely proud of them, and the service they provide to the Shetland community.”

Individual Chief Coastguard Commendations were issued to: Katrina Sandison, Ryan Leask, Liam Brannan, Fiona Gilbertson, Steven Nicolson, Laura Fulbirg, Megan Keppie, Mark Smith, Paul Brannan and rope technician Stuart Gray.

While other team members received Letters of Appreciation from the Chief Coastguard. They were: Jonathan Laing, Jeff Gaskell, Simon Allan, Fergus Allan, John Borrill, Will Bond and Senior Coastal Operations Officer Daniel O’Connor.

The rescue involved a despondent person.

For more information about HM Coastguard’s work, visit: https://hmcoastguard.blogspot.com/

If you are struggling, please talk to someone. Visit: https://www.samaritans.org/ or dial: 116 123

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