Port St Mary RNLI Coxswain, James Michael Keggen MBE, has retired after more than half a century of saving lives.
Mike was the longest standing seagoing crew member in the Isle of Man, having served Port St Mary Lifeboat Station for 51 years of dedicated voluntary service.
The Funeral Director by profession, has held the post of Coxswain of the all-weather lifeboat for the last 22 years.
During his 50 years with the station he’s undertaken a wide range of roles including crew, mechanic, helm and coxswain, serving on both the station’s all-weather and inshore lifeboats.
50 Years of Saving Lives
Over the years Mike has been called out on more than 300 shouts, aided at least 124 people and saved the lives of 13 individuals.
At the start of this year, Mike was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the King’s New Year Honours.
Upon reflecting on his long service to the RNLI and the official recognition he’s received, Mike said: “When I was told I was going to receive the MBE I was truly shocked, but so very proud.
“It has been a real honour to receive the recognition in my final year of service, in the same year that the charity celebrates 200 years of lifesaving.
“The RNLI was founded here on the Isle of Man, and everyone who volunteers for this special charity are all working together as one crew, to save lives at sea.
“We don’t give up our time and energy to get recognition, we do it because we want to serve our communities and keep people safe.
“However, the MBE gave me the opportunity to look back on my many years at the RNLI with pride, and to think about those lives I’ve helped save and the families I’ve helped keep together.”
Next Generation
Sarah Kneen, Mike’s daughter, former Crew Member and Lifeboat Operations Manager for Port St Mary said: “The RNLI talk about inspiring the next generation of lifesavers and that’s exactly what Dad did for us.
“He’s given so much to the station and RNLI – and to think of him dedicating over 50 years to lifesaving makes us all so proud.
“My brother Thomas and I both served as lifeboat crew and it was Dad who inspired us to join.
“As well as all the rescues Dad’s been involved with over the years, a personal highlight was getting to see him meet HRH Princess Anne when he was presented with his MBE medal at Windsor Castle in April. Such a special moment and one that will stay with me forever.”
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