Seamanship Burgee Qualification Criteria

Recognizing those who embody the spirit of seamanship.

The Storm Trysail Club Seamanship Burgee is awarded to those who demonstrate exceptional seamanship and responsibility by assisting a vessel in distress or addressing a serious incident aboard their own boat.

Who Qualifies?

Sailors who go above and beyond in moments of need, whether on their own vessel or assisting others. Examples include:

• Man Overboard (MOB) Recovery – on your own boat, a competitor’s vessel, or any other craft.
• Responding to Mayday Calls – offering direct assistance or standing by until rescue services arrive.
• Critical Communication Support – relaying vital messages when others cannot.
• Providing Medical Assistance – administering first aid or other urgent care.
• Helping a Sinking or Damaged Vessel – aiding in recovery efforts or escorting a boat safely to port.
• Transferring Fuel or Supplies – assisting a vessel in need of essential provisions.
• Aiding a Grounded Vessel – helping to free or stabilize a stranded boat.

Nominate a Worthy Sailor

The threshold for recognition is not excessively high—this award is meant to encourage good seamanship. If you believe someone deserves a Safety Burgee, we urge you to submit a nomination.

Note: This award applies to both racing and non-racing situations. If assistance occurs during a race, this recognition is separate from redress, which is handled by the Organizing Authority.

Nominating Process

Storm Trysail members or non-member attendees of an STC Event- whether participants or witnesses - may submit recommendations for their vessel and/or other vessel(s) via the form below which is sent to the Executive Director and Seamanship Committee Chair of the Storm Trysail Club. If a nomination warrants consideration for a US Sailing Hanson Award, STC will forward a recommendation.

Determination

The Seamanship Committee will review the Nomination and after adequate research, make a recommendation to the Storm Trysail Club Commodore. Safety Burgee(s) will be presented at an appropriate time and place depending on circumstances, such as: prize awards for that event, STC station party, STC Annual Meeting or Governing Committee meetings. Awards will be publicized on the Storm Trysail Club website, social media, and newsletters.

(Thank you to STC member Ben Hirdes for suggesting the concept of a Safety Burgee).