Princess Anne honours RNLI hero Roger Cohen with MBE at Windsor Castle
40 Years of Lifesaving Service Rewarded
Princess Anne presented lifeboat operations manager Roger Cohen with his MBE at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, November 8. After four decades volunteering for the RNLI across London and Sussex, Cohen’s extraordinary dedication has finally been recognised by the crown.
Champion of Diversity and Courage at Sea
Roger currently oversees lifeboat operations at Brighton and Newhaven RNLI stations. Previously, he served as crew and helm at Brighton and Tower lifeboat stations – the busiest in the UK.
Under his leadership, Brighton RNLI became the nation’s first LGBT-accredited lifeboat station and the first ever to take part in Pride, blazing a trail for inclusivity in volunteer rescue work.
A Day to Remember at Windsor Castle
Roger learnt of his MBE honour back in January but received the award in a prestigious afternoon investiture alongside comedian Adam Hills and Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty.
“It was a surreal day – and one I will never forget. Walking through Windsor Castle, steeped in history and tradition, it was an incredible experience and a real honour to be part of it,” said Roger.
He added, “I had a few minutes with Princess Anne during the presentation. We chatted about my time working at Tower lifeboat station on the River Thames. She understood the unique challenges faced by city stations, where lifesaving happens amidst busy urban life, and showed great support for volunteers.”
Family Support Behind Every Rescue
Roger was joined by his partner Alison – treasurer of Brighton RNLI – and their two children, Jade and Jack.
“Behind every RNLI volunteer is a network of loved ones keeping everything going while we save lives at sea,” Roger said. “Every launch, every rescue has been a tremendous privilege.”
“Over 40 years, I’ve witnessed huge changes but remain proud of Brighton’s diverse crew. We are like an extended family, with courage and dependability our constant strength.”
Since 1982, Roger has been involved in 2,260 lifeboat launches, helping save 248 lives.
Honoured for Lifesaving and Charity Work
Roger’s MBE recognises his personal commitment to the RNLI and charitable services. He continues to lead as lifeboat operations manager at Brighton and Newhaven, with a career marked by dedication, bravery and breaking new ground for inclusion.
Notably, Princess Anne’s husband, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, is a Vice President of the RNLI, underlining the royal family’s strong ties to the lifesaving charity.
