RNLI Mourns the Loss of Esteemed Lifeboatman Tony Hawkins MBE

Tony Hawkins MBE, a much loved member of the Dover RNLI community, passed away this week peacefully after a short admission to hospital but will be remembered as a shining example of humanity, selflessness, bravery, and unwavering commitment to saving lives at sea.

Born in 1944, Tony joined the RNLI in 1960 at just 16 years old. Over the decades, he held nearly every position within the organisation, ultimately concluding his operational career as Coxswain of Dover Lifeboat Station in 1999, after responding to nearly 500 service calls. His deep-rooted dedication made him, in every sense, an RNLI man through and through.

Tony’s remarkable contributions were recognised with numerous awards and honours, including:

• The Bronze Medal for Gallantry (1975)

• Three Thanks of the Institution on Vellum (1977, 1981, 1991)

• Three Chairman’s Letters of Thanks (1982, 1985, 1993)

• A Royal Humane Society Award (1973)

• An MBE for services to maritime rescue (1998)

• The Freedom of the Town of Dover (2024)

These accolades reflect a life defined by courage, dependability, and an unshakeable sense of duty — qualities that perfectly embody the RNLI’s values.

Even after stepping back from operational duties, Tony remained a vital part of the station as Boathouse Manager, continuing to contribute actively to the RNLI community until just last month. He passed peacefully, surrounded by family and close friends.

A lifelong man of the sea, Tony touched countless lives through his service — and there are many who are alive today because of his actions. He inspired generations of lifeboat men and women in Dover and beyond, not only through his heroism but through his kindness, generosity, wit, and spirit.

According to Danny Wilkins, Dover's current full-time Coxswain:

"Tony Hawkins MBE exemplified the RNLI's motto that with courage, nothing is impossible. He was a stalwart of Dover's lifeboating and maritime community and having served in many roles will be remembered for compassion, bravery and humanity not only by his crewmates but also by the many thousands that he rescued."

We extend our deepest sympathies to Tony’s family, friends, and all who served alongside him.
With fair winds and following seas, dear friend — thank you for your service.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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