Best Royal Navy sailors awarded by outgoing Armed Forces Minister

Star sailors from the Royal Navy’s Portsmouth flotilla have been rewarded for outstanding achievements by the Armed Forces Minister.

In her last day in office on July 18, Penny Mordaunt presented 29 awards to personnel who have gone the extra mile for their ship or unit during the past 12 months.

The ceremony on Friday (July 15) was held on board HMS Victory and was followed by a dinner at HMS Nelson.

Two recipients of the award are based on the 65,000-tonne giant aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, currently in build at Rosyth. Chief Petty Officer Graeme Duncan was recognised for his efforts in working with industry to ensure that the ship’s fresh water system, galley and laundry were ready for the ship’s company to move on board.

Medical Assistant Louise Whalley was rewarded for her key role in introducing and managing the ship’s first aid and medical training plans and for tailoring effective bespoke training for different departments.

Commander Portsmouth Flotilla, Commodore Peter Sparkes said: “In a challenging year when the Portsmouth Flotilla has scarcely been busier, it is really important that we recognise some of the extraordinary individual efforts of our Sailors, which contribute so powerfully to our collective successes.

“I am delighted that the Minister for the Armed Forces agreed to present these awards in the presence of the recipient’s partners today, and I am also grateful to BAE Systems and the Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity for their support in making it possible.”