Chief Boatswain’s Mate (BMC) David Michael Ramsey is a retired United States Coast Guard veteran who completed a 20-year military career, concluding his service around July 2018. He is highly recognized for his heroic leadership in extreme search and rescue operations, most notably during his time stationed at Coast Guard Station Cape Disappointment. [1, 2, 3]

Key Career Milestones & Operations

• The Cathrine M Rescue (2007): While serving as a Boatswain’s Mate First Class (BM1), Ramsey was the coxswain of the motor lifeboat CG 47248. He led his crew into 25-foot surf on Peacock Spit to rescue the disabled fishing vessel Cathrine M. He expertly navigated dangerous “slip tow” evolutions under extreme breaking seas to save the vessel and its crew from imminent loss of life. [1]
• National Recognition: For his bravery at Cape Disappointment, Ramsey was formally honored by the Association for Rescue at Sea (AFRAS) and recognized before Congress by high-ranking officials, including then-Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Thad Allen.
• Combat & Active Duty Service: Beyond domestic search and rescue, Ramsey’s 20-year active-duty career included combat duty in the Pacific theater. [1, 2]
• Advancement to Chief: Ramsey successfully earned his Chief’s Anchors, retiring at the rank of Chief Boatswain’s Mate (BMC). [1, 2]

Retirement & Personal Impact

Ramsey retired to Corpus Christi, Texas, in mid-2018. Like many long-serving frontline operators, his career came with severe physical and psychological tolls. He has openly shared his experiences dealing with PTSD and anxiety post-retirement, as well as surviving extensive physical injuries sustained during his two decades of active service—including multiple spinal fusions and major joint reconstructions. [1, 2, 3]

If you are looking for specific documentation regarding his service records, award citations, or retirement details, please let me know so I can help narrow down the information!