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The HMS Guardian, a British naval vessel, set sail in 1789 under the command of Captain Edward Riou, destined for New South Wales with vital supplies for the fledgling colony. During the voyage, on Christmas Eve, the ship struck an iceberg in the frigid waters of the southwest Indian Ocean. The collision caused severe damage to the hull, and the crew faced a daunting decision: stay on the heavily damaged ship or evacuate in lifeboats. Riou gave his men the choice, and 259 opted to take their chances in the lifeboats, while 62, including Riou himself, chose to remain on board and attempt to save the ship.
Despite the dire circumstances, Riou\'s leadership and the determination of those who stayed proved crucial. They managed to patch the leaks and navigate the crippled vessel through treacherous waters, eventually making their way back to Cape Town after a grueling nine-week journey. Tragically, of the 259 who evacuated, only 15 survived the harsh conditions at sea. Riou\'s remarkable efforts in saving the Guardian and the lives of those who stayed with the ship earned him great admiration and respect, cementing his legacy as a courageous and capable leade
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