Dungeness RNLI Hero Honoured for 50 Years of Brave Service
Peter Thomas, Chairman of the Dungeness RNLI Management Committee, has been handed a rare medal marking five decades of fearless volunteering. It’s a golden moment for a true lifeboat legend.
From Teen Stand-In to Lifeboat Legend
Peter’s RNLI journey began at just 17, stepping in whenever crew were short for lifeboat missions. In 1970, he took over from his father John, not only joining the crew but also becoming the Emergency Mechanic. He served under famous Coxswains Ben Tart and Alfred “Honker” Haines.
Braving Hurricane-Force Seas
One of Peter’s most daring missions was on 11 February 1974. The RNLI lifeboat Mabel E Holland was launched in hurricane-force winds to rescue a badly injured seaman from the vessel Merc Texico, six miles off Dungeness Point. Coxswain Ben Tart earned a silver medal for the rescue, while Peter bagged a bronze.
Recognition and Royal Honour
Since 2011, Peter has chaired the Dungeness Management Committee. In September 2012, he received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, adding royal recognition to his long list of achievements.
“It came out of the blue and was a complete surprise. I am extremely proud and honoured to have been awarded it from the RNLI,” said Peter.
