VOS SAILOR

scrapped

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Helicopter crew honoured for saving 11 crew members of distressed supply boat

Four helicopter crewmen have been recognised for their role in the rescue operation after the "Vos Sailor" was struck by a wave during storms in December 2012. The crew member Joseph Laws, 50, of Hull, died when the supply vessel was damaged about 120 miles off Aberdeen, others had to be airlifted to safety. The Bond helicopter crew members Graham Stein, Nick Smalley, Paul Walters and Andy Cowx have been honoured by the Shipwrecked Mariners' Society. They have been presented with the Edward and Maisie Lewis Award at the annual Skill and Gallantry Awards, which recognise the bravery of those who risk their lives in dangerous rescues. Winchman Andy Cowx also received an individual commendation. In the dark, he had been successfully lowered to the vessel, but landed heavily on the deck as it pitched and suffered serious foot injuries. However, he continued with the rescue. Commodore Malcolm Williams, chief executive of the Shipwrecked Mariners' Society, said: "Good leadership, outstanding professionalism and teamwork, courage and determination ensured that 11 men were successfully evacuated from the 'Vos Sailor'." Report with photos: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-24302306

Helicopter crew honoured for saving crewmen of Vos Sailor

Two helicopter crewmen have been honoured for their part in the rescue Operation fort the crew of the "Vos Sailor". Winchman Andrew Cowx and operator Paul Walters were able to evacuate 11 people on board the oil standby ship which had been pounded by heavy seas December 2012. The conditions had claimed the life of one of the vessel's crew. Despite extremely poor weather and sea conditions, Mr Cowx volunteered to remain on the deck of the stricken vessel for an hour to manage the rescue of three remaining members of the ship’s crew. Mr Walters had already lifted eight members of the crew to safety. Both men, who are part of the BP search and rescue helicopter crew operated by Bond, have been awarded the Billy Deacon Search and Rescue Memorial Trophy. They displayed outstanding courage, composure and selflessness in the face of extremely challenging and hazardous conditions as part of a broader team, so also Captain Graham Stein and co-pilot Nick Smalley were commended for their part in this rescue.

VOS Sailor at Smedegaarden

The "VOS Sailor" meanwhile has been towed to Smedegaarden in Esbjerg for demolition.