B.C. diver’s family proud of his role
VANCOUVER — A British Columbia-born diver who braved perilous conditions to help save 12 boys and their soccer coach from a flooded cave in Thailand is the kind of man who always helps others, says his older brother.
Erik Brown grew up in Langley and owns a diving company in Thailand. His brother says when the 35-year-old saw that the boys were trapped, he didn’t hesitate to join the rescue team.
“That’s just who he is. He didn’t have to tell me why. I know the man pretty well,” said Kirk Brown, 39. “I’m not at all surprised he was involved to the degree he was and was able to help.”
Erik posted a photo of himself earlier this week with other divers on Facebook with the caption, “9 days. 7 missions and 63 hours inside Tham Laung Cave. Success.”
The boys, ages 11 to 16, and their coach entered the cave after practice on June 23, but monsoon rains soon blocked their escape. The complex mission, by international and Thai divers, to pull the team from the flooded passageways captivated people across the globe.
Kirk travelled from Calgary to be with his mother, Dorothy, in Langley during the rescue. He said they were glued to their televisions and phones, waiting for word that Erik had returned safely from a mission inside the cave.
His brother would go into the cave for hours at a time, sometimes for up to six hours, said Kirk, adding that whenever Erik had a free moment he would let his family know he was OK.
Although Kirk and his mom were naturally nervous, they had faith in Erik’s abilities.
“He’s very proud of what he does,” he said. “It’s about planning and patience and staying calm. You have contingency plans.”