The Navy’s constant guardian of the Falklands welcomed royalty when the Duke of Kent visited patrol ship HMS Clyde in the lead up to November ceremonies in the remote islands.
Despite a busy visit programme centred around the Remembrance Day parade in Stanley on November 11, the Duke was able to find the time to spend a few hours on board the River-class patrol ship the preceding day, joining Clyde at sea by helicopter.
The Duke, who served as an Army officer for more than 20 years, holds various honorary Army and RAF ranks and titles – but none in the Senior Service.
So the ship’s company gave their royal visitor a full overview of what their ship can – and does – do on a daily basis in and around the South Atlantic islands which she patrols permanently.
They also demonstrated their damage control skills during a mock incident on the quarterdeck, using breathing apparatus to display various fire-fighting techniques.
Clyde’s galley served up a lunch of locally-caught sea trout for the Duke, plus Commanding Officer Lt Cdr Mark Anderson and a number of the ship’s company.
“We don’t often get to meet members of the Royal Family, and this has been a great opportunity for the crew to show what Clyde can do,” said Lt Cdr Anderson.
“It has been a real privilege for me and my ship’s company to host the Duke of Kent 8,000 miles away from home in the South Atlantic.”
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, November 23, 2012; Image: RN