Under extreme pressure and showing superb professionalism in a high-risk environment James briefed and prepared the crew for winching. He then prioritised the evacuation order, managed the high line and calmly facilitated the lifting of the crew, two at a time, up to the Rescue helicopter, all while coping with the unstable deck, relentless pounding of the Atlantic swell, near gale force winds and the hazards of the cluttered and slippery deck.
The winching operation took an exhausting 50 minutes to complete, with the helicopter transferring the entire crew in two sorties to a prepared landing site on the cliff top, on completion James himself was winched to the safety of the helicopter.
The Winch Operator, Eamonn O’Broin did a tremendous job, ensuring each crew member was assessed and safely seated before continuing.
Throughout this demanding and risky operation, James acted with great skill, outright courage and professionalism, which ensured an efficient rescue with no injuries sustained. He is totally deserving of The Billy Deacon Search and Rescue Memorial Trophy.
George Rawlinson MBE, Award Committee Chair, said “This incredibly demanding rescue was completed with a calm professionalism, despite considerable personal risk to James. James showed magnificent leadership skills in organising the 14 crew for evacuation prioritising their safety at considerable risk to himself. His courage in the face of adversity had a direct bearing on the successful outcome.
“Immense credit too, to the Winch Operator Eamonn O’Broin, for his focus and skill throughout this long winching operation. Also, to the Flight Crew of Captain Robert Goodbody and Co-Pilot Paraic Slattery who managed the safe operation of the aircraft throughout, keeping the helicopter positioned above Fastnet while she pitched dramatically in the swell and ensuring the casualties were safely transported to land.
“This service was a multi-agency response and exemplified good leadership, teamwork and communication, in a very demanding situation and sums up the commitment of those involved to save life at considerable risk to themselves.
“Deserved additional recognition should go to the expert co-ordination of the service by Valentia Coast Guard, and considerable contributions from Valentia RNLI Lifeboat and the Dingle Coastguard Rescue team”
FV Fastnet, who’s 14 crew members, James O’Neill helped rescue