Retiring officer looks back at 21 years with HM Coastguard

Serving for 21 years, Nairn Station Officer Tom Rennie says it is now time to leave the Coastguard, but it has been “a privilege” to help the community and respond to missions big and small.

Tom became a member of the Coastguard back in 2002 after a tragic drowning incident at Nairn beach. Previously a Royal Navy Mine Clearance Diver, he thought these skills could be transferrable. 

His final day with the service was last Saturday, January 21, and his Coastguard colleagues threw a special presentation to say goodbye and thank you.

Tom said: 

It has been an honour to serve for 21 years and a privilege to have been able to help so many people in their hour of need.

“A highlight for me was becoming one of the founding members of the first ever HM Coastguard Water Rescue Team, formed following extensive flooding in the Moray and Highlands area in the early 2000s. 

“This team helped shape our current water rescue training and protocols.”

Tom is now looking forward to travelling around Scotland with his wife Margaret in their new motorhome.

Senior Coastal Operations Officer Colin Wood said: “We’re really going to miss Tom, but Nairn station and beyond thank him for his service and wish him the very best in his retirement.”