By Isle of Wight Observer
Station Officer, James Potter, was formally presented with his Long Service and Good Conduct medal marking 20 years of voluntary service to HM Coastguard in a double celebration on Friday.
Family, friends, colleagues, team-mates and former Coastguards attended and were part of the festivities which also marked James’ 40th birthday.
James joined the Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team April 5, 2005, and he has achieved different competencies in technical rescue including mud technician and rope technician along with being an Officer in Charge for a substantial period of his service.
In 2015 he served as the team’s Deputy Station Officer and became Station Officer in 2018. He also served as an interim Station Officer at Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team for a short period.
Andrew Woodford, Senior Coastal Operations Officer, formally presented the medal to James and said: “It was an absolute privilege to present this 20 years’ service and good conduct medal.
“I am very fortunate to have spent the last 20 years serving alongside James in one capacity or another and have witnessed his selfless dedication, commitment and professionalism. On behalf of HM Coastguard we thank him for his continued service and to his family for their support.”
James added: “I feel really honoured. It’s been an incredible journey with so many different experiences along the way.
“To be able to give something back has been really rewarding and I’ve been fortunate enough to volunteer alongside other committed colleagues along the way.
“The presentation was really special with our flank stations at Needles and Bembridge were also present too. My two sons also did a speech during the presentation which was very special and I have to give a huge thank you to my family and employer for their support to volunteer for the past 20 years.
“I’m looking forward to the next chapter continuing to lead a great team of volunteers who provide a valuable service to the Island community.”
Isle of Wight Observer