Great story; thanks. You are a real hero being a veteran and still out there enjoying life, nature, sport...

We used to just hoist a h14 main on a h16 instead of going thru the reefing process. Maybe you should look into getting a hi wind main either used or custom. Keep your moderate wind equipment for lighter sailing.
Furling jibs sure have their place; it's good to make it back to the beach under your own power.

30mph=26knts- after 30knts. it's a survival game; you need a special vessel for that.