The departure from Cowes RNLI lifeboat of one of its helms was marked with a presentation ceremony at the station.
Laurie O’Callaghan’s local lifeboat connection began back in 2007 when he joined the-then independent lifeboat as a prospective crew member. The following year he became a fully-fledged crew member.
Family involvement
Although he left before the RNLI took over the service in 2008, two years later he was back again, and in 2014 he joined his father, Richard, as one of the station’s helms.
Although Richard eventually retired as a helm, Laurie continued in the role until his work and personal commitments meant he was no longer available.
Move to North Somerset
As a 2nd officer with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, he currently has a shore-based post at Portsmouth Dockyard, and a home in North Somerset.
In November he married Emily who is a 3rd officer with the RFA.
Callaghan: Very good memories of my time here
Laurie (pictured left), now aged 32, said,
“My father encouraged me to join Cowes lifeboat and I have very good memories of my time here.”
Cowes operations manager, Mark Southwell, praised his seamanship and leadership while at Cowes. He said,
“Hopefully one day he will live near a lifeboat station and serve with the RNLI again.”
News shared by George on behalf of Cowes RNLI. Ed
