Mike Keggen MBE Retires After 51 Years with Port St Mary RNLI

After more than five decades of saving lives at sea, James Michael Keggen MBE – known to many as Mike – has officially retired from Port St Mary Lifeboat Station.

Serving for 51 years, Mike holds the title of the Isle of Man’s longest-standing seagoing crew member.

Over half a century, he played various roles, including mechanic, helm, and finally Coxswain for the past 22 years.

Reflecting on his remarkable tenure, Mike, a funeral director by profession, remarked on receiving the MBE at Windsor Castle earlier this year.

He said: ‘When I was told I was going to receive the MBE, I was truly shocked but so very proud.

‘It’s been an honour to get this recognition in my final year, especially in the RNLI’s 200th year of saving lives.’

Mike’s service saw him answer over 300 calls for help, aiding at least 124 individuals and saving 13 lives.

His daughter, Sarah Kneen, who once served alongside him as a crew member, praised her father’s dedication.

‘The RNLI talks about inspiring the next generation of lifesavers, and that’s exactly what Dad did for us’, she said.

‘My brother and I both served on the crew because of him.’

Looking back on memorable rescues, Mike recounted a 1974 incident when a lifeboat braved strong tides off Langness.

Another unforgettable rescue was in July 2004, when a 10m motorboat sank and three crew members were pulled to safety.

Perhaps the most poignant memory came in 2021, involving a 40ft yacht in rough seas near the Carrick.

He recalled: ‘The breaking seas and proximity of the rocks would not allow me to approach in the all-weather lifeboat and get alongside the casualty.

‘So instead, we stood off in the all-weather lifeboat to give protection to the inshore lifeboat being skilfully Helmed by Richard Leigh.’

Richard, who was awarded an RNLI Bronze Medal for gallantry for this rescue, skilfully manoeuvred the inshore lifeboat alongside the stricken yacht to evacuate the three crew of the casualty vessel.

Conditions continued to deteriorate and the swell was building up.

The three crew were extracted and transferred to the all-weather lifeboat which continued to provide protection for the inshore lifeboat as they all headed back to the station in challenging conditions.

Mike Teare, Port St Mary RNLI’s current Lifeboat Operations Manager, reflected on Mike’s contribution to the charity.

He said: ‘Mike has been a stalwart of Port St Mary Lifeboat for as long as most can remember. He has served our community as an RNLI volunteer for over 50 years – an incredible feat.

‘Whilst we wish him all the very best in his retirement – his skill, knowledge, expertise and dedication will be sorely missed. On behalf of the crew, past and present, thank you for your exceptional service.’