Radio operator George Kalamas from Oinousses embarked on his first voyage on August 17, 1981, aboard the general cargo ship Thalassini Kyra (call sign J4QJ), traveling the Europe-Japan route. Following in the footsteps of his ancestors, many of whom were sailors, he chose the maritime profession, describing how he was “influenced” by the older generations in his family and community.
He shares the emotions and experiences he encountered during his years as a radio operator on ships, with his most challenging experience being on the INOUSIAN FATHER when they encountered a typhoon while traveling from Japan to Australia, struggling to save the sister ship of their company, the INOUSIAN PRIDE.
He also offers advice to young people wishing to follow the maritime path, saying that “the profession of a sailor has been, is, and always will be a path for a better life.”
The interview concluded emotionally as he sent Morse code signals via his dual controller, with today’s guest, radio operator R/O George Kalamas, on “Fair Winds and Following Seas” .
Produced and presented by Antonis Karagiannakis