The last of the Royal Navy’s Type 42 destroyers HMS Edinburgh has sailed into New York on her final international journey before being decommissioned from the Service.
With the Statue of Liberty providing the backdrop, the company of HMS Edinburgh lined the decks as she gracefully manoeuvred through New York harbour to her temporary home at Brooklyn Pier 7 for the next few days.
It marks an historic milestone for both the ship and the Royal Navy as New York is the Type 42’s final international destination before she returns to Portsmouth and makes way for the Navy’s new generation Type 45 destroyer.
For 30 years she has been part of the Royal Navy backbone, ploughing the waves, hunting pirates and drug runners, defending the Fleet from attack, and providing humanitarian aid after natural disasters.
Her Commanding Officer, Commander Nick Borbone, said:
“ When we set off from Portsmouth our visit to New York seemed a long way away. But as we arrive in the city the true magnitude of this journey has become clear, we are entering the final chapter in the Type 42 story.
“HMS Edinburgh is the last in class and has consistently remained a capable ship with a highly trained and motivated company and I am extremely proud to have served in her.”
Since departing the UK last September HMS Edinburgh has undertaken a range of tasks across the length of the Atlantic in support of British interests worldwide.
Leading chef Joseph Neale, 31, from Dunderhall, Edinburgh, has worked on three Type 42 destroyers during his 13 year naval career. He said:
“Having worked on three Type 42’s they have pretty much become a part of my life, but Edinburgh has seen 30 years service and now deserves to be rested.
“When we sail into Leith on her UK farewell tour I will be standing on her deck, proud to be Scottish and privileged to have served in Edinburgh.”
Built at the Cammell Laird yard, Birkenhead, HMS Edinburgh was one of 14 Type 42’s commissioned by the Royal Navy.
Chief Petty Officer (Weapons Engeineer) Claire Teeling, 26, from Bootle, said:
“I have worked in Edinburgh for the past three years and will be full of pride when we sail into Liverpool later this year.
“Proud because it will be the first time I have sailed into my home port, but also because my grand dad worked at Cammell Laird and used to say that he built half the Navy’s fleet.”
Before decommissioning in June, HMS Edinburgh will take part in Battle of the Atlantic 70 commemoration events.
The commemorations will be centred on three cities, London from 8-13 May, Derry/Londonderry between 10-12 May, and the culminating event in Liverpool from 24-27 May.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, March 15, 2013; Image: Royal Navy