The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is pleased to announce that His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales and Honorary Commodore of Her Majesty's Coastguard, graciously agreed to bestow Honorary Commodore Awards to Mark Rodaway and Peter Pritchard for their conspicuous role in the MSC Napoli incident after its beaching at Branscombe.

The Honorary Commodore Award is a prestigious commendation awarded where the Coastguard involvement has been of a particularly meritorious nature, and in this case is given to the two Coastguard officers above for their involvement in the MSC Napoli incident.

It recognises their outstanding tactical command, leadership and on-scene co-ordination to restore public order and safety on the beach and surrounding area at Branscombe following the beaching of containers from the vessel and for their untiring efforts in the days and weeks thereafter in support of the salvage operation.

The Awards were presented today to the recipients at a private ceremony at Clarence House.

Rod Johnson, Chief Coastguard said: "The Honorary Commodores Award is the highest award a Coastguard Officer can receive for outstanding conduct. The rescue and salvage operation carried out by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency following the loss of the MSC Napoli was complex, lengthy and challenging. Mark and Peter have received this award because of their outstanding contribution to the success of the operation, demonstrating commitment, leadership and adaptability to the highest standard."

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Last Updated ( Friday, 23 May 2008 )