Portsmouth Wightlink officer who risked his life to be given top maritime honour
A QUICK-THINKING mariner who jumped into freezing waters to save a stranger's life has been given the top maritime honour for his bravery.  Â
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Wightlink deck officer Stephen Chamberlain is one of 19 people receiving the Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service for going above and beyond in the maritime industry.
In February he risked his life to help a man struggling in the cold water in Portsmouth Harbour at 11pm.
The crew on the St Clare ferry spotted the man in danger and Mr Chamberlain saw he was not able to reach the flotation device. He jumped in and kept the man, who was suffering from hypothermia, from drowning.
Medals will be awarded by Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal at a ceremony next month.