Wirral Royal Marine pilot is flying high after qualifying as Royal Navy search and rescue aircraft captain

Jul 27 2011 by Michelle Fiddler, Bromborough and Bebington News

A ROYAL Marines pilot from Bebington has qualified as a search and rescue aircraft captain with the Royal Navy.

Currently serving as the executive officer or second in command at HMS Gannet, the UK’s busiest helicopter search and rescue (SAR) unit, Major Mike Devereux grew up in Wirral and attended Stanton Road Primary School and Wirral Grammar School for Boys.

As an aircraft captain (also known as aircraft commander), it puts Mike in overall charge of the Mark 5 Sea King helicopter used during an emergency call out, as well as the crew of four on board.

The aircraft commander makes the operational decisions of deployment of the aircraft, allowing the safe and efficient conduct of the SAR mission whilst minimising the risks to aircraft, crew and casualties, ensuring a casualty gets rapid and effective medical attention.

Mike, 38, said: “I have been a pilot with the Royal Marines and Royal Navy for 12 years

“Although it is true that in search and rescue you do not face the threat of enemy gunfire as you may on the frontline, it is instead the conditions and landscape which cannot be underestimated.

“As commander I have to ensure my crew and equipment match up to whatever is thrown at us and it is a responsibility I take very seriously.

“Our teams work as just that – teams! So, while I am in overall control, all decision-making is based not only on my experience, but also that of my fellow aircrew. It is never a one-man show.

“My work with HMS Gannet, one of only two Royal Navy SAR units has been very rewarding. And I’m proud that the experience it has added has resulted in me achieving the aircraft captain status.”