As a ship Captain, we often face life-or-death situations that demand immediate action, yet our role in these crises is seldom recognized—unless something goes wrong. Every emergency at sea pushes us beyond standard operations, requiring a heightened sense of responsibility.
In my career, I’ve had to divert course more than once for urgent medical evacuations, often coordinating with helicopters for critical cases like heart attacks or severe injuries. One particular incident stands out: 48 hours after departing from Oakland, a crew member's hand was crushed by machinery. In that moment, I had to make the swift decision to reverse course for a timely rescue. The sound of the helicopter approaching was a mix of relief and the weight of knowing that life-saving decision was on my shoulders.
These situations demand not just technical expertise but emotional resilience. The fear of making the wrong call, the pressure of knowing every second counts, and the overwhelming relief when it all works out—these are experiences many of us carry but rarely talk about.
The role of the Captain in emergencies deserves more recognition, not just for the skills involved but for the emotional burden we quietly bear.
#MaritimeLeadership #EmergencyResponse #LifeAtSea #Captain
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3moYa. I got some 1974 Columbian Murderer Neighbors Pretending to be my family and German here. Claimed they are Medellin Cartel Members of Pablo Escobar in 1987 and have not stopped Trafficking of drugs. See www.ztrip.com coverage map