President Mary McAleese, accompanied by the Deputy Chief of Staff (Operations) Major General Ralph James, and the Flag Officer Commanding the Naval Service, Commodore Mark Mellet visited the Naval Base in Haulbowline on Monday the 10th of October at 12.00pm.
The visit commenced with a Naval Service Guard of Honour at the National Maritime College of Ireland, followed by a short tour of college facilities.
President McAleese then addressed Personnel at the Naval Base before boarding the LE Niamh and sailing to Cork city. A number of schools lined the banks of the River Lee to greet President McAleese.
The visit marked the final official visit of President McAleese to Cork city.
The Naval Service is the maritime component of the Defence Forces and is the primary sea going agency of the state.
[mappress] Source: military, October 11, 2011