Sea rescuers in Wilhelmshaven: A look at 160 years of lifesaving

Sea rescuers in Wilhelmshaven: A look at 160 years of lifesaving

In Wilhelmshaven, an impressive history of sea rescue comes to life. The Wilhelmshaven-Jade Nautical Association is committed to reviewing the missions and developing the German Society for the Rescue of Shipwrecked People (DGzRS). Thomas Baumgärtel, a native of Wilhelmshaven and an employee of the Sea Rescue Academy in Bremen, steps in as a speaker after his predecessor had to cancel due to illness. He highlights the significant progress and key dates of the organization since its founding in 1865, which has also left many traces in the city of Wilhelmshaven.

The DGzRS operates 53 stations throughout Germany, including the one in Wilhelmshaven, which was founded in 1868 as Heppens station and renamed Wilhelmshaven in 1869. The sea rescuers have saved over 87,000 lives since they were founded. With 180 permanent employees as well as 800 volunteers and 650 volunteers, they work around the clock and rely solely on donations, as Baumgärtel emphasizes. Especially when you consider that the last 1,775 missions in 2024 brought help to over 3,000 people, you realize how important financial support is.

A look into history

The origins of the DGzRS go back to a time when coastal residents often lived off the flotsam and jetsam of wrecked ships and no systematic help was offered to seafarers. Its founding in 1865 was a response to the often tragic incidents in which sailors found themselves in distress at sea. An incident in which the brig “Alliance” sank in 1860 caused a rethink in society. Committed citizens, including Adolph Bermpohl and Georg Breusing, worked to rescue shipwrecked people and led to the establishment of one of the first rescue organizations in Germany.

The first wooden rowing lifeboat was handed over to the Wilhelmshaven station as early as 1870. Numerous advances in equipment have been made over the years. The first motor lifeboat was used in 1930 and the first rescue cruiser “Hans Lüken” in 1969. The constant improvement of the equipment and the training of volunteers have significantly supported the mission of the DGzRS over the decades.

Current developments and challenges

There are currently 23 volunteers working in Wilhelmshaven who receive thorough training and regular training. “Working with rescue helicopters has significantly improved our approach to operations,” explains Baumgärtel. The sea rescuers also have modern equipment and flood-protected station buildings at the flood port, which are also used for exercises and information events.

The DGzRS ensures that it can continue to do justice to its valuable task in the future. Through innovative approaches and strong community involvement, the organization remains an important part of maritime culture in Germany. As Baumgärtel concludes, the sea rescuers are not only heroes of the sea, but also dependent on the support of the population. Every contribution, be it in the form of donations or voluntary work, is invaluable for safety on German waters.

For more information about the history and current operations of the sea rescuers in Wilhelmshaven, visit the website of NWZonline, Seenotretter.de and NDR definitely recommended.