Volunteer saves 100+ lives in 40 years

Tony Bonham, a volunteer commander with the RNLI, has amassed an impressive record of service over 40 years. Since the Southend-on-Sea station began keeping records in 1996, Bonham has logged 101 lives saved and 953 people aided, with the actual numbers likely higher. He began volunteering as a lifeguard at 15 before joining the lifeboat team four years later.

Bonham emphasized that volunteers do not seek recognition, viewing their actions as simply doing a job. He highlighted the significant commitment required, noting that volunteers must respond to calls at any time, including holidays and early mornings, before returning to their daily lives. This demanding schedule leads to a high volunteer turnover.

The family's dedication continues with his son, Tyler, who is now a commander at the Gravesend lifeboat station. Tony recently experienced the unique situation of being on a call where his son was the helm and he was crew. His six-year-old grandson also shows an early interest in the lifeboat station.