Sea Rescue stalwart honoured
NSRI honours Mike Patterson for 40 years of outstanding service
FOUNDER member of Sea Rescue Station 19 in Richards Bay 40 years ago, veteran NSRI stalwart Mike Patterson, has been recognised for his service in saving lives at sea.
Mike was honoured at the 49th National Sea Rescue Institute awards ceremony and AGM held in Camps Bay on Monday evening.
In addition to issuing long service awards, the ceremony paid tribute to volunteer Sea Rescue crews, as well as others who went beyond the call of duty in brave and skilful circumstances.
NSRI Chairman Ronnie Stein presented Mike with the Marmion Marsh award, which ‘recognises a person or organisation for especially noteworthy service to the cause of sea rescue in South Africa over a number of years’.
Mike and other local pioneers began talking about an NSRI base as far back as 1972, but the plans only came to fruition when the Port of Richards Bay opened in 1976.
‘I have enjoyed an unbroken four decades of service in many capacities, including as board member and station commander, and I am proud to accept this honour,’ said Mike.
‘However, the success of one is always the result of the dedication of many.’
Current station commander Dorian Robertson is one of many recruits who learnt the art of seafaring from Mike.
‘I started as a raw 16-year-old under Mike’s mentorship and everything I now know, I attribute to his guidance.’
• Marmion Marsh was Managing Director of Safmarine from 1968 until he passed away in 1985. He was a board member of NSRI, and with Safmarine was heavily involved in sponsoring and funding – specifically for training – as this was his passion.
