Heroic British captain receives prestigious medal after saving 89 lives at sea

The 56-year-old from Pembrokeshire was one of 12 British seafarers who picked up the prestigious award from the Ministry of Defence.

Captain Phillips now holds the highest grade of seafarer certification in the UK and has travelled all over the world during his career.

Maritime Minister, Mike Kane said: "It is incredibly inspiring to hear about the dedication, bravery, and outstanding service of all this year’s seafarers, each of whom have gone above and beyond in their roles and are more than deserving of this special award.

"I am so proud of the UK Merchant Navy who continue to go beyond the call of duty to keep our country safe and moving, and I congratulate this year’s recipients on their remarkable achievements."

Also picking up the award today is Captain Philippa Bowden, from Portsmouth.

Captain Bowden obtained her ice pilot license at the age of 28, meaning she was the only female British ice captain in the UK with an Unlimited Master's License, meaning she can operate any ship of any size, anywhere in the world.

The 36-year-old seafarer has led multiple global expeditions, including in the remote Ross and Weddell Seas, and piloted the biggest cruise ship to have ever operated in Antarctica with 2,470 passengers.

Reacting to the news of her award, Captain Bowden said: "I feel honoured to be recognised for my contributions to safety and the continued education of seafarers.

"As an island nation, the Merchant Navy is an essential lifeline for the UK, and this medal helps shine a light on the efforts of all our seafarers.

"I hope to keep inspiring future maritime leaders through my work and ambassadorship roles."

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Another heroic recipient of the award is Captain Iain MacKenzie, who has been serving remote communities off the west coast of Scotland for over three decades.

The 60-year-old has been charting CalMac’s ferry services off the west coast of Scotland for more than 32 years, and is responsible for crucial lifeline services to the Small Isles, helping isolated communities.

He said: It is an honour to have been nominated for this award. My father would have been immensely proud, having served as a merchant seaman himself. Serving the Islands and communities has been a privilege, the scenery is stunning, the people are amazing, but the weather can be challenging at times.

"Looking after one another is vitally important, and this is something that has become increasingly clear to me through my volunteer work for the RNLI over the last 25 years."

CEO of Merchant Navy Welfare Board Stuart Rivers said: "Huge congratulations to this year’s Merchant Navy Medal recipients.

"Each one represents the very best of our maritime community, people who show resilience, dedication and selflessness every single day.

"Their impact goes far beyond ships and crews, shaping the strength and spirit of our entire industry.

"I’m immensely proud to see our Deputy CEO, Sharon Coveney, recognised with this highly-acclaimed accolade for her unwavering commitment to our charity and her passion for improving the lives of seafarers around the world. A moment to cherish forever."

Today marks Merchant Navy Day, commemorating the contributions and role of the UK’s merchant navy in global trade and national security.

The merchant navy transports cargo and people and has played a vital role in UK trade and tourism since 1835.

This year marks 20 years since the Medal was first founded, and 10 years since it was brought into the UK Honours system.

Recipients of the Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service will receive their medal in a State Ceremony later in the year.