Why?
Well I'll explain
When you get back to port and he goes about his business, you apparently remain in his good graces in a BIG way.
if you go to the headquarters to unlock new technologies and research, he remains as a selectable officer to assign to such research.
Not only can he serve as any role; leader, radioman or engineer, BUT he also unlockes the tech in about HALF the stated time - twice as fast as any other officer you might otherwise assign.
You have a good friend in a high place if you save him
