My name is Nathan Sheffer. I just wanted to take a minute to say how great the Rotterdam crew was in the rescue of 13 refugees. they acted quickly in responding to the call to action. And appreciate Captain Bas van Dreumel Volendam’s quick action. And taking the call seriously.
But also want to take a minute to thank and recognize the person that spotted the refugees. His name is Shadd Jones in 6053. And the quick action that he and his group took. And tell the story from the source.
It was about 15 minutes before we were going to go to dinner it was close to 5pm when shadd spotted the refugees boat and I confirmed that indeed it was a boat trying to get our attention. I had my wife keep eyes on them while I made the call for help after a few minutes our phone rang in our room. I answered and the security team asked if we could still see them and I said yes but just barely and gave their updated location. It was an amazing thing that took so many pieces to fall into place. If we would not have had an extra sea day because of the hurricane those people would have probably not survived another day probably not even a few more hours.
My hope in writing this is not for any recognition for myself but just hope that Holland America would take the time to recognize him. For his excellent spotting skills using only some 4×32 binoculars and the quick actions taken by the ones in his group.
P.S. A free cruise or discounted cruise for Shadd and his wife Farrah Jones would be a great gesture on Holland America’s part and would not go to waste
Sincerely Two Star Mariner, Nathan Sheffer