Ian Brown BEM

Some really good news to share as we reach the end of 2020, not only one of the strangest years we can remember, but our busiest on record.

We learned last night that our Station Officer Ian Brown has been awarded the British Empire Medal in recognition of his service with the Team. Ian has been serving with the Swanage team in his local community since 1990 and has been involved in many high-profile incidents where his calm authority has provided support for his teammates and others in often traumatic situations. Ian has also given of his own time to promote maritime safety in the local community and leads his team’s attendance at a number of local events which is another opportunity to engage with the public.

Ian said: “I am extremely proud to receive this award in recognition of my work with the Coastguard Rescue Service during the last 30 years and I feel honoured to represent the organisation in rescue work and in the wider community. This award also reflects the support I receive from my family, friend and some amazing colleagues in HM Coastguard and our partner agencies.”

Ian was also awarded the 'Swanage Coastguard of the Year' by his team mates last year

MCA Chief Executive Brian Johnson said: “We can never thank enough those who go beyond the call of duty, putting the safety and wellbeing of others first. Dedication like this should be rightly recognised and I am so proud that our people have been honoured by Her Majesty.”

We will have a look at Ian's thirty years of service in a day or two, but for the meantime Ian, many congratulations from all your colleagues on the team, both past and present.