Dad Nearly Died While Lost at Sea 250 Miles from Shore. It Inspired Him to Become a Firefighter — and a Steamy Centerfold

Diver Turns Firefighter After Dramatic Sea Rescue

A 30-year-old commercial diver found his life’s calling as a firefighter after a harrowing experience of being lost at sea. James Morris, now 35, was 250 nautical miles off the Australian coast when his dory overturned, leaving him and a colleague stranded for 18 hours. This incident served as a turning point in Morris’s life, inspiring him to pursue a career in firefighting, a childhood dream he had long held.

Reflecting on the transformative experience, Morris shared with PEOPLE, “I love my job. I’ve really found my calling. I’ve helped a lot of people out of [treacherous] situations. You can see the fear and the gratitude once you save them.” This sentiment captures Morris’s deep sense of purpose and fulfillment in his new role as a firefighter, where he dedicates himself to saving others in critical situations.

Originally from Brisbane, Queensland, Morris had held various jobs, including construction worker, bartender, and business owner, before finding his true passion in firefighting. The fateful day in June 2019, when his diving excursion turned into a fight for survival, marked a pivotal moment in Morris’s career trajectory, leading him to embark on a journey towards becoming a professional firefighter.

During the sea ordeal, Morris displayed remarkable courage and quick thinking as he rescued his colleague and navigated through challenging circumstances to ensure their survival. Despite the overwhelming odds, Morris’s thoughts were anchored on his young son, Kai, who served as his source of strength and motivation during the dire situation. The profound love for his son enabled Morris to remain calm and focused amidst the chaos of being lost at sea.

As darkness enveloped them, Morris’s resilience shone through as he strategically deployed flares to signal for help while braving the unknown dangers lurking in the waters. The prospect of swimming to safety on a distant island, fraught with risks of shark attacks and encounters with crocodiles, loomed over Morris and his colleague, underscoring the gravity of their predicament.

Fortunately, the duo was rescued in the nick of time by a fellow crew member, averting a potential tragedy. Following their rescue, Morris transitioned to a new chapter in his life by embarking on a career as a firefighter in the Queensland Fire Department. His unwavering determination and ability to remain composed under pressure served as valuable assets in his role as a first responder, where he continues to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

In a surprising turn of events, Morris was approached to feature in the Australian Firefighters Calendar, a popular publication known for its charitable contributions. Despite initial skepticism, Morris embraced the opportunity, viewing it as a platform to raise awareness and support causes close to his heart. The calendar shoot allowed Morris to combine his passion for firefighting with a philanthropic endeavour, further solidifying his commitment to serving his community.

Looking back on his journey from a diver lost at sea to a firefighter gracing the pages of a calendar, Morris reflects on the profound impact of his experiences. He acknowledges the wake-up call that reshaped his perspective on life and empowered him to pursue his true calling in firefighting. Through dedication, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose, Morris exemplifies the transformative power of facing adversity and emerging stronger on the other side.

As Morris continues his journey as a firefighter, his remarkable story serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the world. From the depths of the ocean to the front lines of firefighting, James Morris embodies the essence of courage, compassion, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.

The story of James Morris stands as a poignant reminder of how life’s challenges can shape our paths and lead us towards unexpected destinations. In his unwavering pursuit of purpose and service, Morris’s journey serves as an inspirational narrative of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of following one’s true calling in the face of adversity.