IMO launched a video focusing on its 2019 Awards, where the Organization awarded major personalities of the shipping industry, with each one of the winners playing a crucial part in the maritime world of today.
On November 14 2018, the rescue helicopter CG6032 was called about 70 miles off the coast of Maine, US, where four crewmembers had abandoned their sinking fishing vessel amid heavy storms. All four crew were suffering from hypothermia, whereas two of them were not able to swim.
Thus, rescue swimmer Michael Kelly was deployed into the cold water immediately to save the crewmembers. The weather conditions were extremely challenging with 20-foot waves and 50-knot winds.
Michael Kelly managed to pull out of the water each survivor and carry them to the swaying rescue basket. All four survivors were rescued and lifted on the helicopter to safety.
Therefore, for his courage, perseverance and skill in rescuing four people in distress, the IMO awarded Michael Kelly with the 2019 IMO Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea.
During the award ceremony, Michael Kelly commented that
I would not be here without the amazing skills of my crew.
Moreover, during the ceremony, the IMO awarded Mr Joseph J. Angelo with the International Maritime Prize, recognizing his contribution to the work and goals of the Organization.
