I liked this. Just the part in the beginning with the sea was so - sad definitely. Something else too, hard to describe.
It's a good point how it's easier to die believing. It made me think. He's still eating and drinking, right? So he hasn't given up. I think living, coming to terms with things is always braver.
Didn't know about the historical event mentioned, ended up looking it up.
Good job, good read.