As the nation took to March to celebrate and appreciate women, Egan Maritime would like to pause and recognize Nantucket women working in maritime fields. From on the water rescues and operations to classroom lessons and shellfish research, these women are leading Nantucket's community to safe harbor.
- Amanda Bardsley, Phd., Sea of Opportunities Oceanography/Maritime Studies Teacher
- Diana Brown, Executive Director, Nantucket Community Sailing
- Leah Cabral, Assistant Biologist, Town of Nantucket
- Sue Genthner, Endeavor Sailing Excursions
- BM3 Keisha Kerr, U. S. Coast Guard Station Brant Point
- Sheila Lucey, Harbor Master, Town of Nantucket
- Christina Martine, Director of Marina Operations, Nantucket Boat Basin
- Tara Riley, Shellfish Biologist, Town of Nantucket
- Kaitlyn Shaw, Water Resource Specialist, Town of Nantucket
- Briana Vittorini, Beach Coordinator, Town of Nantucket
Pictured: MK2 Sam Freedman, FN John Feniello, and BM3 Keisha Kerr.
BM3 Keisha Ormsbee
On the night of June 27, 2015, a vessel was steered over the East Jetty at approximately 11:15 p.m. After hitting the Jetty, the vessel began to flood. In distress, the stranded mariner called for emergency assistance and the Coast Guard was dispatched. Coxswain BM3 Keisha Kerr was responsible for executing the rescue. Kerr is the first female non-commander member to attain this certification. This was her first case as Coxswain. With many risks at play: 18 – 20 knot winds, shallow waters, limited visibility, Coxswain Kerr led her crew into the unknown under the cloak of darkness to assist a soul in peril.
Coxswain Kerr showcased her expertise in boat handling and team coordinating. Her ability to evaluate and identify hazards led her crew to make the right, timely decisions. The mariner was saved and the vessel quickly sank on the West Jetty. Coxswain BM3 Keisha Kerr and her crew, BM3 Matthew Pugh, FN John Feniello, and Officer of the Day MK2 Sam Freedman, were awarded for their heroic rescue at the 2015 Lifesavers Recognition Day Ceremony.