This year’s award recipients represent a cross-section of the industry, from captains leading daring rescues to those safeguarding ferry services for remote communities…reports Asian Lite News
Twelve British seafarers have been recognised for their exceptional service to the nation, receiving the prestigious Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service on Tuesday, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the award and Merchant Navy Day.
The annual national day celebrates the crucial role played by the Merchant Navy in global trade, national security and the UK’s maritime heritage. Since its establishment in 1835, the Merchant Navy has been a vital lifeline for Britain, transporting cargo and people during both peace and conflict.
This year’s award recipients represent a cross-section of the industry, from captains leading daring rescues to those safeguarding ferry services for remote communities. Each has demonstrated courage, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to service.
Among the most striking stories is that of Captain Chris Phillips, 56, from Pembrokeshire, who led his 30-person crew on a daring rescue mission in the depths of winter earlier this year. Under treacherous conditions, they saved 89 lives at sea, including women, children and a baby.
Captain Phillips comes from a long line of seafarers and was inspired by his father and grandfather, both of whom were sea captains. He joined the Merchant Navy at 16 and has since travelled the world, earning the highest grade of UK seafarer certification. In recognition of his distinguished career, he was awarded the Freedom of the City of London in 2024 and is also a Freeman of the Honourable Company of Master Mariners.
Maritime Minister Mike Kane praised this year’s medal recipients, describing them as “incredibly inspiring” individuals whose service goes beyond the call of duty. “I am so proud of the UK Merchant Navy, who continue to keep our country safe and moving,” he said. “Each of this year’s seafarers is more than deserving of this special award.”
Another inspirational honouree is Captain Philippa Bowden, 36, from Portsmouth, who has forged a pioneering career in the polar regions. At just 28, she obtained her ice pilot licence, becoming the only female British ice captain in the UK with an Unlimited Master’s Licence — enabling her to operate any ship of any size, anywhere in the world.
Captain Bowden has since led numerous expeditions across the globe, piloting vessels through the remote Ross and Weddell Seas and commanding the largest cruise ship ever to operate in Antarctica, carrying 2,470 passengers. She has also been a tireless advocate for marine and environmental protection, reporting whale sightings, recording cloud observations and contributing to climate monitoring. Her efforts earned her recognition from the UK Meteorological Office.
As an Antarctic Ambassador since 2023, she has combined her professional achievements with public outreach, participating in panels and webinars to inspire the next generation of seafarers, particularly women entering the industry. “I feel honoured to be recognised for my contributions to safety and the continued education of seafarers,” she said. “As an island nation, the Merchant Navy is an essential lifeline for the UK, and this medal helps shine a light on the efforts of all our seafarers.”
Recognition has also gone to Captain Iain MacKenzie, 60, from the Isle of Skye, who has served CalMac ferries for more than three decades. As Master of the MV Loch Nevis, he has overseen lifeline services to the Small Isles off the west coast of Scotland, ensuring residents remain connected to vital supplies, medical services and loved ones.
His work is considered indispensable not only for sustaining island communities but also for supporting local economies under difficult weather and operational conditions. In addition to his professional duties, Captain MacKenzie has volunteered with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) for over 25 years, regularly responding to emergencies at sea. “My father would have been immensely proud, having served as a merchant seaman himself,” he reflected. “Serving the islands and communities has been a privilege. Looking after one another is vitally important, and this is something I have seen time and again through my RNLI work.”
Industry leaders also paid tribute to the medal recipients. Stuart Rivers, CEO of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, offered his congratulations, calling the winners “the very best of our maritime community — people who show resilience, dedication and selflessness every single day.” He expressed pride that his own Deputy Chief Executive, Sharon Coveney, had been among those honoured for her dedication to improving the welfare of seafarers worldwide.
The Merchant Navy Medal was first established in 2004 and incorporated into the UK Honours system in 2015, becoming the highest national award specifically for seafarers. This year’s celebration not only recognises two decades of the medal but also highlights the continued significance of the Merchant Navy to the UK’s prosperity and security.
Recipients of the 2024 Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service will be formally presented with their awards at a state ceremony later this year, cementing their place in Britain’s proud maritime tradition.
