It was the work of journalist Carlos Guerreiro on a specific event in Faro that caught the eye of expat Michael Pease several years ago.
On 30 November 1943, three Portuguese fishermen – Jaime Nunes, José Mascarenhas, and Mascarenhas’ 13-year-old son Manuel – who were fishing off the coast of Faro, rescued six airmen whose US Liberator bomber plane had crashed nearby, around 10 kilometres south of Faro, killing five of the 11-man crew onboard.
Having researched the incident in depth, Faro journalist Carlos Guerreiro persistently endeavoured for a tribute to be made to the three valiant fishermen, who cared for the six survivors throughout the night before getting them safely to land.
A plaque was presented at the Gambelas University in July 1999, but sadly only after the passing of José and Manuel Mascarenhas.
Guerreiro’s work grabbed the attention of Mr. Pease, who has keen interest in World War history, and who suggested they expand on the Faro event and analyse the role of Portuguese fishermen in saving lives from the sea during World War II as a whole.
Born in the UK in 1930, Michael Pease has lived in Portugal for over three decades, after spending much of his life in Africa.
His research found that during the Second World War (1939-1945), Portuguese fishermen from the mainland and the islands, particularly around the Azores and off the West Coast, rescued hundreds of stricken fighters and non-fighters from both sides, from the Eastern Atlantic.
“I feel that the role of Portugal in World War II is somewhat forgotten because it was neutral, but Portugal played a huge role”, namely due to its maritime trade routes, Mr. Pease explained to The Portugal News, adding: “It is very, very important not to forget history; it must be remembered for the future.”
Seven years of research culminated in the lobbying for a memorial – a bronze or steel statue, depending on funding – to be created, to pay tribute to the three Faro fishermen in particular, as well as acknowledge the valiant spirit of all Portuguese fishermen who made sea rescues during World War II.
It is hoped around €70,000 in funding will be raised through donations, for its creation.
A sculptor and a design are ready in waiting, and permission has already been granted in writing by various authorities, including the local and regional council and tourism and cultural chiefs, for the monument to be located on Faro’s riverfront.
Encapsulating the spirit of the homage, it is planned to sit in a key location, in the Manuel Bivar Gardens.
For more information or to make a donation, see: www.portuguese-fishermens-memorial.org.