The Semaphore Circular No 650 The Beating Heart of the RNA June 2015

HMAS Anzac berthed alongside on Victory Jetty during her visit to Portsmouth. Sadly there is a NAAFI buzz that our antipodeans cousins got the dates for the visit wrong as their intention was to arrive in time for the Ashes.

A spokesman was heard to say ... “ Look mate ..we always like to see the Pommies hammered, so we’ll cheer on the Kiwis in the first Test at Lords....but after Root’s 98 the only way we’ll see Pommies hammered this Summer is in Pompey Weatherspoons not in the Ashes!

RNA members are reminded that hard-copies of the Circular are distributed to each branch via their Secretary, but “silver-surfers” can download their own copy from the RNA website at www.royal-naval-association.co.uk .(See below) 1

Daily Orders 1. HQ Open Day 2. Driving Licence Changes 3. Guess Where? 4. Symphony Joke 5. Finance Corner 6. Donations received 7. Assistance Please HMS Jervis 8. Aussie Farmer Joke 9. RN VC Series – L/S Mantle 10. Good Home required 11. More Phantom Stuff 12. RNRMC News 13. Nigel’s Clothing Extravaganza 14. More Model Ship Building 15. Pussers Rum 16. HMS Invincible Book 17. Rude Joke Alert 18. In Memory - Trincomalee 19. Lasting Power of Attorney 20. Discount Deal Lazy Days 21. Can you Assist 22. Book Sale – Attack at Dawn

Longcast

“D’ye hear there” (Branch news)

Ship’s Office 1. Swinging the Lamp

For the Branch Secretary and notice-board

Glossary of terms

NCM National Council Member NC National Council AMC Association Management Committee FAC Finance Administration Committee NCh National Chairman NVCh National Vice Chairman NP National President DNP Deputy National President GS General Secretary DGS Deputy General Secretary AGS Assistant General Secretary CONA Conference of Naval Associations IMC International Maritime Confederation NSM Naval Service Memorial Throughout indicates a new or substantially changed entry Contacts:

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Financial Controller 023 9272 3823 [email protected]

FAX 023 9272 3371

Assistant General Secretary (Membership & Slops) 023 9272 3747 [email protected]

Deputy General Secretary 023 9272 0782 [email protected]

Shipmates Administrator 023 9272 0782 [email protected]

General Secretary 023 9272 2983 [email protected]

Admin 023 92 72 3747 [email protected]

Find Semaphore Circular On-line ; http://www.royal-naval-association.co.uk/members/downloads or... RNA Website – Members Area – Downloads – Circulars – Code (Shipmate)

RNA HQ Staff continue to attempt to build a library of e-mail addresses within the Association. It would be extremely helpful if those Branch Secretaries able to communicate by e-mail would forward a short e-message to HQ to [email protected]

Snail Trail Mail - Postal Address RNA HQ, Room 209, PP70, Semaphore Tower, HM Naval3 Base, Portsmouth Hants PO1 3LT

Dear Shipmates,

A warm welcome to the June edition of the Semaphore Circular, by the time that you get this Circ we will be a few days off the Conference at the Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone (CT20 1TX for those with Satnav). I hope that all preparations are complete, don’t forget Michelle’s warning that if you haven’t sent in your annual accounts and are up to date with subs, your delegate cannot vote. Here are the main timings – please note one very important change on the departure time for the trip to France:

Fri 19 June

1400 Rooms ready, check in by alphabetical desk. Must register your car for parking. 2 Area reps available to help 1730-2000 Rolling self-service evening meal in the Harbour Restaurant 2000 Welcome reception in the Ballroom 2100 Entertainment starts in Ballroom (note after 2100 Ballroom open to all hotel residents)

Sat 20 June 0600 -1000 Breakfast 0630 French trip departs promptly (requires 10 year passport and Euros). This is much earlier than previously, coaches will not wait, ferry to catch at Dover. 0845 Registration opens for delegates in the Ballroom 0945 All delegates to be seated 1000 AGM/Conference starts. Mayor of Folkestone and Vice Admiral Peter Hudson are VIPs. Admiral Peter will take questions after presentation. 1300 Conference breaks for lunch in Victoria Dining Room. Provided FOC for Delegates but not observers or others. 1400 Conference resumes O/C Conference ends – tidy up starts 1930 for 2000 Gala Dinner in Maritime Restaurant (Bookings closed as the restaurant’s full) 2130- late Entertainment in the Ballroom (Michelle is bringing her dancing shoes)

Sunday 21 June

0700-0900 Breakfast 1000 Standard bearers and RNA muster in Harbour Car Park. Sep Wet weather routine 1020 Step off and eyes left (Mayor + NP + VIP) 1030-1100 Service taken by Chaplain of the Fleet 1101 NP harangues the troops, dismiss in position, bar open.

Please note that through our time Happy Hour prices will be charged from 1100 to 2000.

Please make your own way from the Railway Station (Folkestone Central) to the hotel, it has not been possible to arrange coaches or minibuses due to the turning circle at the station. Fare is £5 to £6. There should be plenty of taxis if not here are some numbers Premier Taxis 01303 270000 http://www.premiertaxisfolkestone.co.uk/ways-to-book.php Folkestone Taxi 01303 252000 JJ Taxi 01303 244442 I hope that is all clear. Michelle and Chrissie will be running Slops during the Conference Day. Ansvar insurance will be there to help explain our branch and individual insurance deals also CONA Holiday Service will be there to give hints and ideas on branch days out and reunions .

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The HQ staff are really looking forward to meeting with our many friends, please come up and introduce yourself during the weekend. One of us will be duty first aider and will be carrying the RNA’s defibrillator and first aid kit until 2330 each night. Andy is duty Friday and Nigel duty Saturday.

Other matters this month:

• Don’t forget planning for the Biennial March at the Cenotaph on 6 September. We hope to see loads of you, we have the Irish, Belgian and Dutch naval associations coming as well as loads of CONA friends. We need the help to win the drinking and singing completion which the Irish edged last time.

I shall be up at the Arboretum on 27 June, Armed Forces Day (AFD) to give chats about the memorial from 0900 to 1300 with the National Chair taking over to 1700. I would be grateful if anyone would like to join me during the day to help out, again please give me a call or e-mail, or just come along for a selfie and a tot (RNA members only)

The National Standard will be at Guildford for the AFD, with the National President as a VIP in the Cathedral and other services. The best of luck for the many events that the RNA are covering that weekend, and grateful thanks.

A big thank you to the 65 RNA shipmates who marched in the Gallipoli march, who were privileged to march off with the RN regulars.

I have been asked by Shipmate Maurice Sheldrake (Wisbech branch) to remind all branches of the protocol regarding coffin drapes. The correct coffin drape for a retired member of the naval service is the Union Flag, with the White Ensign reserved for those members of the Naval Service who die in service. I well appreciate that this is obeyed more in the breach and I have been reassured by the Royal Navy that their Flag Police Unit was dismantled as a savings measure some years ago. But it does no harm for us to be reminded of the right drill. I suspect that when I cross the bar it will be the house flag of Pussers Rum!!

Kindest regards Paul General Secretary

May Open Day. Shipmates were joined by the General Secretary’s new grandson Shipmate Archie, with Shipmate Julia (Mum) taking the picture!

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1. HQ Open Day - 15 May 2015

HQ staff hosted 32 Shipmates from a variety of branches and HQ role members including Sheffield, Birmingham, Exeter and Selsey. They enjoyed a sandwich lunch in the Semaphore Arms, (which overlooks Portsmouth Harbour entrance), a brief on the RNA and its current initiatives and issues, a Harbour tour after successfully passing their Naval swimming test!! on the SD Norton and finally cake and a cuppa.

The photo above shows Paul briefing the Shipmates. The ‘on watch’ HQ hosting team of Paul, Andy, Nigel and Michelle were joined by Shipmates Bob and Sharon Jones. Bob acted as the ‘ASDA’ welcomer and Sharon teamed with Michelle as the local acting NAFFI tea ladies!!

Just to prove what a successful day it was please read the e-mail we received from S/m Layton Pope.

Good morning, To all the RNA HQ staff who made our recent visit, such a pleasant, informative, and thoroughly enjoyable experience, our heartfelt thanks for your hospitality and generosity. May I take this opportunity, to thank you for all the hard work you do, on behalf of the membership. Once again many thanks, Kind regards, Layton and Marie Pope. Ps, It would normally take wild horses to drag my wife onboard a boat, [ so much for ex wrens] so Friday shows how much she was enjoying herself.

STOP PRESS, STOP PRESS, STOP PRESS;

Due to a cancellation there are now 10 spaces available on the Friday 3rd July 15 Open Day. This will be on a First Come First Served basis however preference will be given to any Branch/HQ Role member who has not visited HQ on a previous Open Day. Bids please to Andy or Nigel ASAP.

2. Driving Licence Changes

Shipmates may wish to know that from 8 June 2105 the ‘paper’ driving licence as opposed to the ‘photocard’ driving licence will no longer be valid. This change particularly affects car hire arrangements so you are strongly urged to visit the following link www.gov.uk/dvla/nomorecounterpart Which explains the changes in specific detail.

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3. Guess Where? An Establishment

This month can you name this former Naval establishment. Please forward any other pictures to the HQ that you may have for ‘Guess Where’ so that we can publish them in forthcoming Circulars. No looking on Google or Wiki!!

Answers in next month’s edition.

Last month’s answer!

St George Barracks former home of Onboard ADP Support in Ships or OASIS most of us know it. The Barracks has a long history dating from 1856/1859. The Barracks were constructed as part of the Gosport Lines fortifications and called ‘The New Barracks’ until 1941 when they were transferred to the Royal Navy and named HMS St George and used as “New Entry” barracks. They were returned to the Army in 1947, keeping the name St.George. Its design is unusual and a myth exists about the barracks that they were apparently built to a design that was meant for barracks in India. The myth goes that the designs for two sets of barracks – one for India, the other for Gosport – were muddled up. St.George’s Barracks seems more suited to troops based in a hotter climate than Gosport. The barracks stayed in Army use until the 1990s. The North site was empty for a number of years before being sold for housing, whilst the smaller South site remained in MOD use until 1998 when the site was closed, handed back to the Crown Estate and also sold for development. However the Guard Room remained in MOD while TS Hornet was there until 2001 when the unit moved to the old RN Telephone Exchange in Royal Clarence Yard.

4. Symphony Joke

A tourist in Vienna is going through a graveyard and all of a sudden he hears music.

No one is around, so he starts searching for the source. He finally locates the origin and finds it is coming from a grave with a headstone that reads: "Ludwig van Beethoven, 1770- 1827". Then he realises that the music is Beethoven's Ninth Symphony and it is being played backward.

Puzzled, he leaves the graveyard and persuades a friend to return with him. By the time they arrive back at the grave, the music has changed. This time it is the Seventh Symphony, but like the previous piece, it is being played backwards

Curious, the men agree to consult a music scholar. When they return with the expert, the Fifth Symphony is playing, again backwards.

The expert notices that the symphonies are being played in the reverse order in which they were composed, the 9th,

7 then the 7th, then the 5th.

By the next day the word has spread, and a crowd has gathered around the grave.

They are all listening to the Second Symphony being played backward. Just then the graveyard's caretaker ambles up to the group.

Someone in the group asks him if he has an explanation for the music. "I would have thought it was obvious," the caretaker says.

Wait for it ………………………………

"He's decomposing."

5. Finance Corner –

Dear Shipmates,

Year End Returns A few branches are not using the HQ Year End Return form. Therefore, can I please ask that you complete your Year End Accounts on the correct form. This makes it easier to be checked and to be able to abstract the correct information. If you require a copy please contact Rita or myself. Also, please note the Year End Returns as per the Rules & Bye-Laws Page 40 B19, (c) must be returned to HQ by the 30 April

Conference – Delegates Please note; will Branches that are sending a delegate to Conference (Folkestone) that in accordance with the Rules & Bye-Laws Page 21, 16, (c) HQ requires your payment of Subscription and your Year End Return form. Unfortunately if HQ does not receive your Branch Paperwork, then your Branch Delegate will not be allowed to vote at conference

Finally, Delegates that are attending Conference, please ensure you complete your Expenses Claim form which will be found in your Delegates’ Pack waiting for you at Conference, please return to HQ by 31 July 2015 in order for me to refund you swiftly and prepare the Pooled Fares.

Many Thanks

Yours Aye Michelle

6. Donations received for the Central Charities and the Charter Challenge

Central Charities

No donations on this occasion

Charter Challenge

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RNA Whitstable £100.00 Mr Ragulaperuman £ 23.00 Mr F Willis £ 20.00 ‘In memory of the late....’ S/m Jessie Marsh £ 40.00

Thank you very much for your continued support.

7. Assistance Please – HMS Jervis and 14th Flotilla

S/M Eddie Greenslade would welcome any information that Shipmates could provide concerning HMS Jervis and other Js or Ks. He is extremely interested in obtaining any photos or stories about HMS Jervis, as his Father was a gunner during the ships Malta convoys, His Father would have been 91 years old now and so time is running out for him to find this information which, may already be lost forever. Eddie thinks there used to be an Association for these destroyers, and any information would be great. If you can assist, it would be most appreciated. Eddie can be contacted at [email protected] or you telephone him on number 01689 871 622.

8. Aussie Framer Joke

An elderly man in Queensland had owned a large property for several years. He had a dam in one of the lower paddocks where he had planted mango and avocado trees. The dam had been fixed up for swimming when it was built and he also had some picnic tables placed there in the shade of the fruit trees.

One evening the old farmer decided to go down to the dam to look it over, as he hadn't been there for a while. He grabbed a ten litre bucket to bring back some fruit. As he neared the dam, he heard voices shouting and laughing with glee. As he came closer he saw it was a bunch of young women skinny-dipping in his dam. He made the women aware of his presence and they all went to the deep end.

One of the women shouted to him, 'We're not coming out until you leave!' The old man frowned, 'I didn't come down here to watch you ladies swim naked or make you get out of the dam naked.'

Holding the bucket up he said, 'I'm here to feed the crocodile.'

Moral: Old men may walk slow, but they can still think fast.

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9. RN VC Series - Acting Leading Seaman Jack Foreman Mantle VC

L/S Jack Mantle won the VC whilst serving in HMS Foylebank in Portland Dorset. He was born in Wandsworth London on 12 April 1917 and died fighting in action on the 4th July 1940.

Mantle was 23 years old, and an acting Leading Seaman in the Royal Navy during the Second World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 4 July 1940 during an air raid on Portland, Dorset , Leading Seaman Mantle was manning the starboard 20mm pom-pom gun, where he had his left leg shattered by the blast from a bomb early in the action. Although wounded again many times, he remained at his gun, training and firing by hand when Foylebank's electric power failed, until he collapsed and died. This was only the second occasion that the Victoria Cross has been awarded for action in the United Kingdom.

L/S Mantle was an ‘Old Tauntonian’ who attended Taunton’s School in Southampton his VC and other medals are on loan to the Royal Naval Museum in Portsmouth.

10. Good Home Required

Shipmate Mike Potter, Bristol Branch has been offered a pair of “those enormous binoculars which were used on ships of yesteryear”. His branch have no use for them and so would like to be very happy to see them find a good home on a first come first served basis. Please contact S/M Mike Potter at [email protected] or 01179 681769.

11. More Phantom Information from the Honorary Treasurer (Spotter Exceptional).

Shipmates may recall that in last month’s Semaphore Circular the item, from Limavady, concerning the purchase of Phantom XT 864, pictured opposite.

The picture of the Phantom was taken at NAS Cecil Field, Jacksonville, Florida on the 26 February 1975.

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Four aircraft were disembarked for night refams while the ‘Ark’ was alongside on an extended visit.

Incredibly S/m Ray was there and, for the record, he was a PO ‘Pinky’ on 892 at the time!

(Editors Note -Shipmates will I am sure have noted that the Hon Treasurer did lots of seatime!!!!!!!!!!)

12. Royal Naval and Royal Marine Charity Update

As summer-season begins Shipmates may be interested in the multitude of events organised by – and in support of – the Naval Service and its charities.

With RNRMC cash helping to put on a number of events, from families days and displays to celebrations and rallies, it will not surprise you that you’re likely to find RNRMC represented somewhere amongst all the fun this summer.

For a snapshot of some of the biggest events RNRMC are attending, take a look at the handy guide below. RNRMC hope to see you there!

2015 Date Event Name 6 HMS Collingwood Field Gun Competition

19 Royal Ascot

20 Helensburgh Summerfest, Scotland

June

20-21 HMS Sultan Show and Charity Reception

27 National Armed Forces Day

11 RNAS Yeovilton Air Day 11 HMNB Portsmouth Families Day 17 Leeds Rhino's Rugby match July 24 HMNB Devonport Families Day 24-25 America's Cup, Southsea Common 30 RNAS Culdrose Open Day

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13. Nigel’s Clothing Extravaganza - Bargain Basement Buys.

HQ has taken on the remaining clothing stock from Area 8 which was produced to raise funds for Charter Challenge 2014 – The Naval Service Memorial to you and me.

These are now available at sensational cost price, plus actual postage.

Polo shirts £7 plus pp £3 total £10

Sweatshirts £10 plus pp £4 total £14

Thick Fleece zip tops £11 plus pp £5 total £16 (Sorry SOLD OUT )

They are really good quality and a real bargain, If visiting HQ on an open day they are pp free!

Don’t hang about..... Cheap as Chips ...... Remember First come first served.

14. More Model Ship Building

This Month’s Modelling section features the CSS Alabama which was sent in by S/m Victor ’Darby’ Allen, Chatham Branch.

You may be interest to view the photos of CSS Alabama that I built a few years ago for a friend in Liverpool. The model is scratch built from a line drawing and illustration in a publication entitled 'Confederate Raiders'. Hardly museum standard but it represents the ship.

CSS Alabama was built by Lairds of Birkenhead to a Confederate States Navy specification as a commercial raider. The ship was a contemporary of HMS Warrior and whilst half the size, she was similar in appearance i.e. Steam & Sail with two swivel deck guns centre mounted. She had a very successful 18 month career before being defeated by USS Kersarge of

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Cherbourg. Whilst her officers were of the Confederate Navy her crew was mainly former RN and Liverpool seamen.

15. Pussers Rum – New supplier

I am sure that Shipmates will be delighted to hear that that a new supplier, Drinkfinder, has been engaged by Cellar Trends on behalf of Pussers Rum.

Best of all the new supplier will supply the rum at a discounted price for RNA members. Please see below how to contact them......

• Log in to www.drinkfinder.co.uk or phone 01326 340226

• Insert promotion code royalnavy15 when checking out/ prompted • This will reduce the price prior to checking out. • Agreed promo price £29.99 (reduced from £32.99)

Christchurch branch report this is a very slick service with v nice people taking the order!

16. HMS Invincible Book.

DID YOU SERVE ONBOARD HMS Invincible?

A very fine 130 page hardback book was produced a few years ago covering the life and career of INVINCIBLE. Written by Neil Mc Cart and introduced by Rear Admiral R A G Clare this well illustrated book is a “must” for anyone connected with the ship over her 25 year life.

Published at £19.95 We have the remaining copies and will send you one for just a FIVER (inc UK Postage) Order from www.navybooks.com or pick up the phone during normal business hours to order on your credit card. Overseas readers please write to [email protected] for a postage quote.

Maritime Books, Lodge Hill, Liskeard Pl14 4EL Tel 01579 343663

17. Rude Joke Alert – Involving Pensioners and Sex

Upon hearing that her elderly grandfather had just passed away, Katie went straight to her grandparent's house to visit her 95 year-old grandmother and comfort her. When she asked how her grandfather had died, her grandmother replied, "He had a heart attack while we were making love on Sunday morning." Horrified, Katie told her grandmother that 2

13 people nearly 100 years old having sex would surely be asking for trouble. "Oh no, my dear," replied granny. "Many years ago, realizing our advanced age, we worked out the best time to do it was when the church bells would start to ring. It was just the right rhythm. Nice and slow and even. Nothing too strenuous, simply in on the Ding and out on the Dong."

She paused to wipe away a tear, and continued, "He'd still be alive if the ice cream van hadn't come along."

18. In Memory - Trincomalee

Shipmates may be interested to read the very interesting article submitted by Shipmate Peter Laggan (Lee on the Solent and Stubbington Branch).

On a recent visit to Sri Lanka with my wife (and ex- WRN) Karen, we came across the Garrison Cemetery in the city of Kandy. The cemetery is set on a narrow plot in peaceful surroundings above the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Temple of the Buddha’s Tooth. Buried here are mainly civil servants and Army Officers, including one who, having survived the battle of Waterloo and Napoleonic Wars, succumbed to malaria on a trek to Kandy from the port of Trincomalee. As many readers will know, Trincomalee (on the island nation then known as Ceylon) was for centuries a harbour used by the Royal Navy, first as a safe anchorage and later as a Garrison, Dockyard and Signal Station (HMS HIGHFLYER). From 1942, the British Eastern Fleet was based here after the fall of Singapore. And it was on the 9th of April of that year that the Japanese attacked, sinking HMS HERMES, HMS HOLYHOCK and HMAS VAMPIRE. Over 1,000 souls perished on that day, on land and at sea.

After the war Ceylon went on to gain independence from the British in 1948, although the newly formed government of Sri Lanka allowed the Royal Navy to maintain a presence in Trincomalee until 1956 when the Sri Lankan Navy took over the port and its facilities. The picture opposite features Gracie Fields visiting the troops in Trincomalee.

What is less known, is the history of the Royal Navy at th th Trincomalee in the 18 and 19 Centuries. Fortunately, historical records, including the register of graves held at the museum of the Garrison Cemetery, give a glimpse of the fascinating history of this strategically important port.

It was as early as 1623 when the Portuguese built Fort Frederick at Trincomalee, defended with guns they had seized from a Danish ship, to defend their interests in Ceylon. The Dutch then captured the port in 1639, only to be ousted by the French in 1672. Finally, after being in the

14 hands of the Dutch East India company, Trincomalee was handed to the British in 1795 and remained a key foreign asset for the British for the next 160 years.

Ceylon’s importance was due to the fact that there were no natural harbours along the south east coast of India and any Navy wishing to control shipping from this coast and into the Bay of Bengal needed a safe port from which to operate. Trincomalee, situated on the North East corner of Ceylon, and only 150 miles from India, proved to be the ideal location.

A testament to the Royal Navy’s early presence is that the oldest British tombstone on the island of Ceylon is that of Captain Thomas Griffin, Commander of HMS PRINCE MARY, who died at Trincomalee on 11 September 1748.

In 1775, a young midshipman onboard HMS SEAHORSE, one Horatio Nelson, was alleged to have claimed that Trincomalee “is the finest harbour in the world” (although he was just 17 at the time and had only been at sea for 4 years!).

In April 1820, the surgeon of HMS MINDEN, Thomas M Buchan died here, aged 27. (The MINDEN was a Ganges Class 74 gun ship of the line and it is claimed that Francis Scott Key wrote the lyrics to the Star Spangled Banner when aboard her during the war of 1812 at Chesapeake Bay).

Over the next 50 years the build up of British forces brought an unfortunate rise in fatalities, which include:

• Charles Norwood (Aged 30), steward to the commander-in-chief, Sir Richard King “whom he served with honesty and fidelity for 5 years”. • William Taylor (aged 24), His Majesty’s Naval Storekeeper, who was “A gentleman of the strictest honour and integrity” who died “after a short but violent illness”. • William Tyman (aged 46), Purser of HMS LIVERPOOL whose “excellent private qualities” earned “affection and regard”.

Of particular note is the sacrifice of the crew of HMS FOX, A 46 gun ‘fifth rate’ which was launched in 1829 and was on service in the East Indies for many years. In the period 1845 – 1847 the following members of her ship’s company were recorded on a memorial at Trincomalee: a quartermaster, a captain of the forecastle, a sailmaker, seventeen able seamen, a ‘boy (1st class), and two privates of the Royal Marines. HMS FOX went on to fight in the second Anglo-Burmese War (1852) where Rear Admiral of the Red, Sir Charles John Austen, died of cholera and whose body also lies in Trincomalee.

Finally, not all men buried at Trincomalee died as a result of hardship, disease or war. Like many a sailor following in his path, one Bertram Mitford, the Paymaster of HMS COSSACK, “drowned in the harbour while trying to swim back to his vessel after dining on shore”.

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I do hope that next time you hold the one-minute’s silence at your branch meeting you will, like me, spare a thought for the many men of the Royal Navy whose final resting place is in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka.

19. Lasting Power of Attorney

One of the most trying times for any family is when a loved one is incapacitated through illness or injury. At such a time, the last thing family members need is to be tied in legal red-tape trying to organise the person’s affairs but, unfortunately, this is very commonly the case.

Most people are aware of the importance of making a Will but very few are aware of just how important it can be to set up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) to allow for the management of their affairs if they should be incapacitated in some way.

In England and Wales, if a person is deemed to be mentally incapacitated then their assets are effectively inaccessible until such time as someone can be appointed as what is known as a ‘Deputy’ through an application to the Court of Protection; a long, arduous and expensive process at a time when a family is already under great stress. This process can avoided by establishing a LPA prior to incapacity, to allow chosen loved ones (your Attorneys) to manage your affairs, if you are no longer able to do so.

There are two different types of LPA available to every individual (the donor):

• Property and Financial Affairs: this document allows the management of a donor’s finances and assets. Unless restricted, it allows the Attorney to deal with everything from paying the phone bill, to selling a person’s property on their behalf

• Health and Welfare: allows the attorney to make decisions affecting the donor’s well- being and medical treatments, effectively allowing the donor to choose their ‘next of kin’. The document gives the donor an option to allow their attorney to refuse life-sustaining treatment on their behalf.

The same attorneys can be appointed under both documents or a donor may choose to have different attorneys dealing with different aspects of their affairs. Not all people will require, or want, both documents and it is essential to take expert legal advice as each person’s circumstances will be different.

Independent legal advice is essential to ensure that a donor has sufficient mental capacity to make the document and that no undue influence is used to coerce them into signing. The role of attorney carries an enormous amount of responsibility and a donor must be 100% trusting and confident in their chosen

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You are advised to consult a solicitor that specialise in advising on Lasting Power of Attorney. Biscoes who prepared this brief can offer free first consultations to all members of the Armed Forces and veterans as well as Coffin Mew who are the RNA’s solicitors.

20. Discount Deal - Lazy Days Boat Hire

Shipmates may be very interested to know that Huntingdon & District Hon Treasure, S/m Pete Aston, has kindly negotiated a discount deal with Lazy Days Boat Hire in Godmanchester.

Lazy Boat Hire would be more than happy to offer your members discount. As an association I'm willing to offer a 10% discount, this could run in conjunction with a loyalty discount I already offer, which as a group if you hire within a month of a previous hire you will receive a further 10% discount. I also offer discount for pre booked hire, where you pay a £20 deposit to secure your hire and receive a further 10% discount. This would amount to 30% discount after your first hire provided the relevant criteria is met. These offers will not be available weekends or Bank holidays. Hope you find this helpful, any further questions please do not hesitate to contact me. Mr A T Deards Lazy Days Boat Hire [email protected] Mobile: 07951785305

21. Can you Assist ?

Mr M Gould e-mailed HQ to ask if any Shipmate recognises the location of the passing out parade shown in the attached post card, probably from around 1950?

Please contact Mr Gould at [email protected]

22. Book for Sale – Attack at Dawn, Author Ron Cope

My father Cyril Cope was a twenty-one year old Torpedoman on HMS Hardy, the lead destroyer in the 'First Battle of Narvik'. He had intended to write a book about his experiences but was unable to complete the task before his death in 2003. Having followed him into the Royal Navy in 1964 and retired in 1986 as a Chief Petty Officer, once more retired in my next employment in

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2008, I decided to take on the project. Rather than duplicate the background, I am sending Attachments of my books launch for the 75th Anniversary of the renowned battle.

I am sure there will be many 'Shipmates' in the Association who are familiar with the events and perhaps interested in purchasing my book. As you will see at the moment it is available on Amazon, eBook and main retail book stores. Within, two weeks I have had requests for over seventy five signed copies to be sent direct from myself.

At the moment I am completing a sequel to 'Attack At Dawn' called 'Doomed Destroyer'. This book goes onto describe how the other four destroyers fared in the aftermath of the battle, mainly focused on HMS Hunter. Not only the tragic sinking and the loss of 100 crew members but also how the forty five survivors, over the following five years were finally repatriated back to Britain. Including, one of your 'Shipmates' John Hague, who passed away in 2014, and who a member of the 'Trafford' branch.

Attack at Dawn by Ron Cope is published by Clink Street Publishing RRP £11.99 Paperback RRP £7.99 e-book and is available through Amazon or all good bookshops.

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RNA Longcast

2015 19 Jun AMC/ FAC / National Council /SOC Meetings - Folkestone 20 Jun Conference 2015 – Grand Burstin Hotel Folkestone Trip to Boulogne 20 Jun Gala Dinner 21 Jun Drum Head ceremony - Folkestone 27 Jun Armed Forces Day – National Event Guildford 27 Jun South Gloucestershire Armed Forces Day – Page Park Staple Hill 27 Jun GS and NCh talks at the Naval Service Memorial; NMA 0900 - 1700 03 Jul HQ Open Day 11 July Yeovilton Air Day 13-22 July IMC Sailing Camp - Croatia 18 Jul Dublin Branch – Summer BBQ (Royal Irish Yacht Club Dun Laoghaire) 23 Jul ARNO AGM + Reception, HMS President 23 Jul CONA Conference - Portsmouth 30 July Culdrose Air Day 01 Aug Area 5 – Quarterly meeting- Southend On Sea 5 Aug Mid Year budget Review 15 Aug AMC 15 Aug 70th Anniversary of VJ Day 21 Aug HQ Open Day 22 Aug FAC 05 Sep National Council - UJC 06 Sep Biennial Parade - Whitehall 19 Sep Northern Ireland Veterans’ Association – Service of Remberance National Memorial Arboretum 09 Oct HQ Open Day 09-12 Oct RNA Plymouth – Biennial Trafalgar Weekend – GS attends 14 Oct Annual National Service for Seafarers, St Paul's Cathedral 23 Oct Dublin Branch – Trafalgar Dinner ( Royal Irish Yacht Club Dun Laoghaire) 5 Nov Field of Remembrance – RNA plot and service with CoF 8 Nov Remembrance Sunday 07 Nov Area 5 – Quarterly meeting- Harwich 14 Nov AMC 19-21 Nov IMC Executive Council 21 Nov FAC 05 Dec National Council 24 Dec – 4 Jan HQ Closed for Christmas and New Year 2016 28 Feb National Arboretum – 1991 Gulf War Memorial unveiling

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D’ye hear there’.....

News from around the Areas and Branches

RNA Belfast Branch

Belfast Branch President Cdr. P.C.D Campbell LVO OBE DL RN thanked Mr David Gourley for his fine presentation during the "Remembering Galipoli Night" at the Royal Naval Association Belfast Branch.

The picture shows S/m’s Peter and David Gourley

RNA Dorchester Branch

Dorchester Royal Naval Association and Dorchester Town Council are organising an Armed Forces Day on Saturday 4 July 2015. The routine for the day will be:

1200 Veterans Lunch in the Corn Exchange 1325 – 1345 Parade of service personnel and veterans from North Square, down South Street and on to the Borough Gardens via Bowling Alley Walk and West Walks Road. Mayor takes the salute outside of Barclays Bank. 1400 – 1430 Civic Service. 1430 – 1445 Presentation of veterans’ lapel badges by the Mayor 1445 – 1520 Music by the Wessex Military Band 1520 – 1630 tbc

Lunch will be provided free of charge but a small donation will be requested to help defray expenses. Further, the numbers for lunch will have to be limited on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.

Any Veterans attending who wish to apply for a badge can obtain an application from S/M Roy Dean or from the Veterans Agency direct. Any veteran who has a Veterans Badge but has not had it formally presented to them may attend the Veterans Badge Presentation.

Veterans wishing to take part should contact S/M Roy Dean, 01305 853442; Mob 07788 892908; email [email protected].

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Area 2

Area 2 held their biennial standard bearers competition at the army TA centre in Ashford Kent on Saturday 9th May. The competition was organized by S/M Harry Cowell Sittingbourne this being his last competition before stepping down as Area Ceremonial Officer in July. The Judges were S/M's Chris Durban, Tony Avery, & Ron Smith, and the prizes presented by Area Chairman Tug Wilson, Chatham, and S/M Tony Statin NCM 2.

S/M Dave Corrigan Bletchley & District was the only out of area competitor for the open competition. S/M Steve Susans was overall winner of the Open and Area competitions, and it was nice to see two novices competing in their first competition you never know, they may just fly the standard flag (Do you get it!!) for Area 2 at national level.

RNA City of Inverness Branch

Shipmates are advised that the City of Inverness Branch venue for meetings is; “The Club”

No 5 Gordon Terrace Inverness IV2 3HD

RNA Cleethorpes and Grimsby Branch

Cleethorpes and Grimsby Branch have held various fundraising activities throughout the year that help to offset running costs of the branch, raise the profile of the RNA. They also hold collection days at various businesses within the borough.

Recently they held a collection day at Morrisons in Grimsby raising over £400. (please see attached photos).

Last December the branch held a virtual horse racing night (please see picture below).

We would always welcome visits from other RNA's and if any branches are interested they can either contact Mark

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Trainor via e-mail [email protected] or the club direct on (01472) 693799.

RNA Malta Branch – Ton Class Association

Readers of Semaphore Circular might be interested in this little dit from the Ton Class Association which involves Shipmates of the RNA Branch in Malta kindly sent in by Shipmate Peter Down. Twenty four members and spouses of the TON Class Association visited Malta on 5-12 May to inaugurate a plaque in memory of TCA Member Commander Oliver Wright RN who sadly Crossed the Bar last year. Oliver had spent significant periods of his RN career in and around Malta, including being Commanding Officer of HMS WILKIESTON in 1959, during which time he invented the Blackfoot funnel badge borne by 104 (later 6) Minesweeper Squadron. Oliver also engaged with the civilian community in Sliema, undertaking a number of charitable activities.

The Town Council of Sliema kindly allowed TCA to install a plaque in memory of Oliver Wright at the war memorial on Sliema waterfront and the Mayor of Sliema, Councillor Anthony Chircop, attended the unveiling ceremony, as did friends from the Malta Branch of the Royal Naval Association, who paraded their standard alongside that of TCA.

RNA Malta then kindly invited TCA to participate in their Commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of VE Day at the RNA memorial in Pieta on 9th May. Also attending the VE Day Commemoration were the President of Malta, her Excellency Mary Louise Coleiro and the British High Commissioner, both of whom spoke to the TCA Group. Thanks are due to Elaine Zerafa, Secretary of RNA Malta, for arranging all the admin.

Many will remember the fearful pounding and deprivation that Malta endured during the bombing and "Second Siege" in WW II, that was recognised by the award of the George Cross to the islands in 1942. Pictured at the RNA memorial are John Soanes, TCA Chairman (centre) with members Bill Pollington and Peter Down, all of whom are also members of RNA.

Diplomacy apart, highlight of the visit for many was a brief trip to sea aboard a 21 metre Inshore Patrol Craft of the Malta Maritime Squadron; 26 knots and tight turns in a Force 4, gusting 5, was quite exhilarating …

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RNA Rayleigh Branch ‘OPERATION SWEET PEA’ Update 1

HQ received a further updated pictures on progress of Operation Sweet Pea from Shipmate Alan Booth ......

This photo opposite shows how the site looked prior to work commencing and is the second 10 acre site for the memorials. This Photo shows the first structure to be built, flanked on either side by Flagpoles. In front of those will be flagstones with a compass design and headed by two MOD anchors

The next job was to plant the hedge defining the site Beech

The pavement has now been laid

The view from the other side of the memorials

The two anchors for the memorials

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RNA Rockingham Branch

Rockingham and District Branch Western Australia had a really good turnout of Members, approx 40, parading the Branch Standard for the ANZAC Day march and commemoration service, held by the City of Rockingham, on Saturday 25 April 2015.

It was a very impressive and moving event which included a fly past by two fast jet aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force, and a lumbering sopwith camel. Five sky divers carrying the RAN, RAAF ensigns an Australian Army Pennant, the National Flag of New Zealand and the National Flag of Australia, made a very dramatic and skilfull entry in a gusty wind which earned the applause of the massive crowd of spectators of all ages."

RNA Hanworth Branch

Shipmates I am afraid Captain C**K Up has visited Hanworth Branch......

Last month I published an article showing a picture which was of another trip!!!!

Here is the corrected version. I believe ‘Fred’s’ Table will be held

at the next monthly meeting......

RNA Chatham Branch

It’s the Rum what does it!!

‘Up and At’em Chatham’ Branch boasts 5 members who have achieved 90 years or more, the eldest being 96. Is this a record or do you know better?

Does your branch have more nonagenarians than Chatham?

The Chatham lads attribute their longevity to a regular tot of rum. What better reason could you want for justifying a daily tipple !

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RNA Welshpool Branch

Its been quite a busy time for Welshpool branch. April 26th saw a number of branch members attend the annual ceremony commemorating the Zeebrugge raid of 1918. The ceremony takes place each year at Seacombe on the Wirral, and involves a memorial service, followed by a laying of wreaths from the Mersey ferry and a parade and laying of wreaths outside the ferry terminal. Dignitaries at this year’s ceremony included the deputy Commandant General of the Royal Marines and the local mayor. The event was followed by "wets" at the nearby British Legion club before returning home.

The branch usually takes the opportunity at the February AGM to decide which armed forces and local charities to support in the coming year. This year we have so far committed £400 to support such charities, and in April we agreed to donate a further £100 to the Gurkha WelfareTrust as a response to the recent disaster in the area.

In addition to these earlier donations the branch agreed to sponsor S/m Ian Slater a branch member who was competing in the Montgomery Canal Triathlon, which involved cycling, running, and canoeing 35 miles along the length of the Montgomery canal. The money collected in sponsorship would be divided 50/50 between support for Royal Marines wounded in recent conflicts and a local explorers scout group who are desperately in need of equipment. The event raised over £400 with Ian completing the course in 5 hours 43 Minutes ...... (I think he deserves a BZ for that ) (Ian is pictured opposite with his medal after the Triathlon)

Members of the branch have taken up walking as their new social activity, and try to arrange local walks each month , this has culminated in the idea of challenging army veterans in the area to a speed march from Newtown to Welshpool ( approx. 14 miles ). It will do Percy good to achieve the honour of being second. We await a response !!!!

RNA Driffield Branch

Driffield Branch Hon Secretary S/m Ron Dibble would like to highlight that his telephone number is 01377 252656 and not 255656 and that sadly Pat and Denise Ramsey have had to stand down as Branch members due to personal reasons.

RNA Huntingdon Branch

Shipmates from Huntingdon & District Branch continue with their support in the local community. On the 23rd April, shipmates Karl Webb, Victor Lucas, and Andrew Milton were joined by St Neots & District Branch shipmates Keith Ridley and Mike Milne in taking part in the annual St George’s Day flag raising event hosted by Huntingdonshire District Council. Shipmate Victor Lucas

25 attended as the new High Sheriff of Cambridge, whilst shipmate, Reverend Andrew Milton led the prayers and blessing of the St George flag. Shipmate Keith Ridley paraded his Branch standard alongside members of the RBL and RAFA.

Then on the 8th May, shipmates attended the VE Day memorial parade outside of Huntingdon Town Hall. Shipmates Bill Small, Karl Webb, Pete Aston, Ben & Rose Dear and Graham Murray formed a small contingent representing the RNA, Bill Small also paraded the Branch Standard with the RBL and RAFA.

Finally, on the 12th May, shipmates Bill Small, Karl Webb, and Pete Aston, attended a parade with Huntingdon Sea Cadet Corps as part of our official affiliation with the unit. Shipmate Karl Webb had arranged a joint presentation with the RBL who are running a campaign throughout the legion in affiliating with youth associations. A certificate used by the RBL was modified to reflect the RNA and sent to HQ for approval (thanks go to our General Secretary, Paul Quinn, for his editing and green light to go ahead). To kick start our support of the unit, shipmate Pete Aston, Branch Treasurer, presented a cheque to the unit in order to sponsor a sea cadet a week’s course onboard a sail training ship. In return, the cadet will give a presentation to their unit, with the RNA in attendance, and provide details of what they have learned from their time at sea onboard a sailing ship.

RNA Boxwich Branch

RNA Bloxwich (Area 8) hosted a large contingent of 42 Shipmates from Area 2 which was organised by RNA Sittingbourne. Some old friendships were rekindled and all in attendance enjoyed a night of great music as well as the buffet that was provided by RNA Bloxwich Ladies. During the evening, Area 8 Honorary Secretary/DNCM Shipmate Paul Mawhinney presented Shipmates Dave Hill (who had organised their weekend jolly to Barrow, Hartlepool and Bloxwich) and to Shipmate Tony Sattin (Area 2 NCM) with a Charter Challenge Sweatshirt and Fleece Jacket respectively on behalf of Area 8. A raffle was held and along with a very generous donation of £50, a total of £172 was raised on the evening. A great night enjoyed by all. It was also announced that Shipmates Paul and Christine Mawhinney will be donating a handmade church to Area 2 for the Conference Raffle (a most sought after prize at Conference last year).

Area 12 (1)

Shipmate Ivan Hunter NCM 12 had the privilege of attending a reception given for recipients of the Atlantic Star medal organised at the request of Mrs Fionnuala Jay-O’Boyle, Her Majesty’s

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Lord Lieutenant for the County Borough of Belfast and hosted by Commander John Gray RN Senior Naval Officer Northern Ireland and held on board HMS Hibernia Commanded by Commander Ian Allen RNR.

And then enjoying ‘tot time’......

(Editors Note; BZ Shipmates, thoroughly deserved)

Area 12 (2)

Shipmates may be interested to read the article below which was sent in by Shipmate Robert Buchanan concerning the visit by S/m’s from Area 12 to Nova Scotia for the 70th Anniversary Commemoration of the end of the Battle of the Atlantic.

On Friday 24th April 2015, After 20 hours travelling, S/m’s from Londonderry, Limavady & Cork branches, led by Londonderry and Area 12 Chairman S/m Robert Buchanan, arrived in Halifax NS. We were met by the CO and trustees of Canada’s Naval Memorial, HMCS Sackville and conveyed to CFB Halifax, our home for the next 11 days.

Saturday 25th April 2015. The trustees again transported us 100km to our first official event in Bridgewater NS. It was the Admiral Desmond Piers Naval Association, Battle of the Atlantic Mess Dinner. The dinner was preceded by a Candlelight Commemorative Service for the Ships and Ships Companies of the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Merchant Navy, lost in WWII. The guest of honour was Rear-Admiral John Newton, Commander of Maritime Forces Atlantic and Joint Task Force Atlantic. The MC was Shipmate Verne Lunan Branch President. After the very moving ceremony, we enjoyed a fine dinner and great hospitality with the shipmates of the Royal Canadian Naval Association. On behalf of the Londonderry Branch, S/m Robert Buchanan received a presentation from S/m President, Verne Lunan and then returned the compliment by presenting a crystal glass engraved with a picture of the International Sailor Statue, which stands proudly in the old RN base in Londonderry.

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Monday 27th April 2015. The group were invited to a reception at Government House, Halifax. We were hosted by the Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, Brigadier-General The Honourable J.J. Grant, CMM, ONS, CD (Ret'd). His Honour and her Honour Mrs Grant graciously welcomed us and we enjoyed their hospitality and the chance to meet old friends and make new ones. We thanked His and Her Honour and presented them with a crystal glass engraved with a picture of the International Sailor Statue.

Tuesday 28th April 2015. The shipmates made their way to the Spatz Theatre Halifax to attend the Battle of the Atlantic Memorial Concert. It was a very enjoyable event, lead by The Stadacona Band of the Royal Canadian Navy and featured Nova Scotia’s Provincial Men’s Choir, Nova Voce, among other performers. The RNA visitors got a special mention in a song delivered by no less than Vice Admiral (ret’d) Dusty Miller!

Wednesday 29th April 2015. The RNA group were hosted to lunch onboard HMCS Sackville. CO. Lt. Cdr Jim Reddy (Ret’d) and his crew made us very welcome and we enjoyed chowder and homemade scones made by Cdr Wendall Brown (Ret’d), the previous CO of HMCS Sackville. A number of shipmates were then given a guided tour of HMCS Iroquois by PO2 Matthew Jones.

Thursday 30th April 2015. The Wardroom in HMCS Stadacona (Stone Frigate) was the venue for their Battle of the Atlantic Mess Dinner. The Guest of Honour was Rear-Admiral John Newton, Commander of Maritime Forces Atlantic and Joint Task Force Atlantic. The Guest Speaker was Capt Angus McDonald MN (born in Glasgow, Scotland). He gave a very interesting talk in which he recounted how he survived when, on his very first voyage, the merchant ship he was serving on was torpedoed. He went on to serve on several Atlantic Convoys and also aboard a ship carrying cargo to Burma.

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Friday 1st May 2015. HMCS Iroquois, Canada’s East Coast Flagship, was Paid Off after 43 years service. The RNA shipmates attended the ceremony at HMC Dockyard, Halifax Nova Scotia. It was quite obvious it was an emotional ceremony for a lot of the Canadian Navy, active and veterans. Many of the Canadian Navy’s top brass had also served on her over the years.

Later that evening we attended a pre dinner reception on HMCS Sackville and then proceeded ashore to be piped into the adjoining Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. The Dinner was hosted by the Canadian Naval Memorial Trust and the event was the HMCS Sackville Battle of the Atlantic Dinner, Commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the end of the War at Sea. MC was Commodore Bruce Belliveau (Ret’d), Chairman of the Trust. Guests of Honour were Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, Brigadier-General The Honourable J.J. Grant, CMM, ONS, CD (Ret'd) and Her Honour Mrs Joan Grant, Rear-Admiral John Newton, Commander of Maritime Forces Atlantic and Joint Task Force Atlantic and His Worship Mike Savage, Mayor of Halifax. It was a really enjoyable evening with great food and good company. The Trust presented the Londonderry Branch with a beautiful model of Canada’s famous racing yacht, Bluenose and the Norwegian Consular representative, Steiner Engeset, presented a plaque with tributes to veterans. The Trust was presented with a number of crystal glasses to auction off towards their fundraising efforts.

Saturday 2nd May 2015. The RNA group took part and laid wreaths at the Canadian Merchant Navy Veterans, Battle of the Atlantic Remembrance Ceremony. The Guest of Honour was Brigadier-General The Honourable J.J. Grant, CMM, ONS, CD (Ret’d). Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia. S/m Robert Buchanan, Chairman Area 12, read a poem written by S/m Eddie Lavery, Treasurer of the Londonderry Branch. The poem is called Morning Dawn and is a very fitting tribute to those who gave their all during the Battle of the Atlantic.

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On Saturday evening we joined the shipmates of Royal Canadian Naval Association “Peregrine” Branch as they commemorated Battle of the Atlantic with a Ceremony of Lost Ships followed by their annual Mess Dinner. Shipmates from our group were encouraged to take part in the ceremony and the hospitality was second to none.

Sunday 3rd May 2015. Each year HMCS Sackville has been towed out into the Harbour and stationed off Point Pleasant Park where the Halifax Memorial is situated. They then hold a joint land and sea ceremony. Following the joint service the ship then has a committal ceremony and the Ashes of Naval Veterans who have crossed the bar during the year are buried at sea. As HMCS Sackville is the last of the Flower Class Corvettes that fought their way across the North Atlantic time and time again, and indeed spent some time in Londonderry between convoys, the decision was taken, not to take her out this year. By kind permission of Rear- Admiral John Newton, Commander of Maritime Forces Atlantic and Joint Task Force Atlantic, the At Sea Ceremony was held aboard HMCS Halifax. Her Commanding Officer, Cdr. Graham Roberts and his crew extended a warm welcome to the bereaved families and also to the RNA shipmates. Tea, coffee and large buns were served in the hanger on the way out and a hot lunch was served after the ceremony. S/m Robert Buchanan presented Cdr Roberts with a crystal glass engraved with a picture of the International Sailor Statue. Cdr. Roberts responded by presenting a plaque with a picture of HMCS Halifax carved on it.

This was the end of the official events and we were then invited to attend the Royal Canadian Naval Association “Peregrine” Branch to “Splice the Mainbrace”. The RNA group wish to thank all our Canadian Shipmates for their unstinting hospitality during the 70th Anniversary Commemorations in Nova Scotia. We have extended invitations to come across the pond and join our commemorations in Londonderry. We are indebted to Pat Jessup, Jim Reddy and the team of HMCS Sackville Trustees for organising transport and ensuring we were able to share in all the official events.

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RNA Market Harborough Branch

Market Harborough RNA recently commemorated VE70, with a 1940s themed tri service lunch in a local hotel, items on the menu included Lord Wooton Pie and Spam Hash. This was attended by 60 veterans and friends.

On Friday our Standard was paraded in the town Square with a Service conducted by our Branch Padre to cover the two minutes silence, then maroons, followed by Community Singing and refreshments provided by the District Council.

On Saturday members of the branch visited a local Old Peoples’ Home to join in celebrations, dispensing paper white ensigns, paper sailor hats, and joining in the entertainment which included an Andrews Sisters type group, dressed in their Khaki uniforms (and suzzies) and community singing.

RNA Woking Branch

Woking Branch joined other Community Groups to mark St Georges Day on Sunday 26th April which included a service was held at St Peter’s Church Old Woking. Standard bearers and members of the RNA Woking branch were on hand to welcome Mayor Tony Branagan and his wife Mary.

The service was conducted for the first time by Reverend Jonathan Thomas, who commented that he was very glad to see so many youngsters, including cubs, scouts and beavers, processing with the standard bearers.

RNA Gloucester Branch

Gloucester Branch are really pleased to report that Shipmate Fred Goode BEM, Ex Secretary, Vice-Chairman, Chairman and Honorary Vice-President has been awarded the Ushakov Medal although he crossed the bar in 2014. Apparently this was because he had made an application for the medal prior to his death.

His widow, Shipmate Margaret Goode, Secretray of Gloucester Branch, was presented with the medal at Oxford on St Georges Day by a Russian Embassy representative, together with an additional peace medal minted in Russia to celebrate the end of WW2. It was a moving occasion for all concerned. Congratulations S/m Margaret for what was a

31 thoroughly deserved medal and for receiving the medal on behalf of your Husband, you must have been very proud and emotional at the presentation ceremony.

RNA Cambridge Branch

Cambridge Branch recently celebrated their 40th Anniversary. The Branch formed in March 1975 in a local Public House when a few ex-Naval men met together. A strong bond was formed and the Branch was born. Gradually the membership grew to more than 200, winning the presentation Rose Bowl, for the most new members in one year. In April 1978 the Standard was dedicated. The ceremony took place at Kings College Chapel; the President, Captain Roskill, was able to secure the prestigious venue. Following the dedication there was parade through the city. A Drum Head ceremony took place, on Parkers Piece, accompanied by the Band of the Royal Marines. Branches from all over the country joined in the celebration. Afterwards there was a supper dance at Kelsey Kerridge sports hall, and a lone Piper rounded off the day, It was a very grand affair. In 1998 the Standard was rededicated at Churchill College, again a grand affair.

Unfortunately over the following years membership has declined through illness and sadly many members crossing the bar. However this year the Branch celebrated its Anniversary quietly, with afternoon tea with the Mayor in her Parlour, which was enjoyed by all, and she joined the Shipmates for a celebratory lunch at the Gonvile Hotel which was attended by 22 members.

Cambridge Branch are always looking for new members and have been fortunate to add another five this year. They meet on Monday nights 1930-2000 at the Joint Service Club on Barnwell Road, Cambridge.

The Branch will also be holding a church service in Ely in November and it is hoped to invite local branches as well.

(Editors Note; Congratulations on your 40th Anniversary may there be many more)

CROSSED THE BAR - Obituaries

‘Big’ Bob Stewart – Bude Branch

Bude Branch R.N.A. deeply regrets to announce the crossing of the bar of Shipmate "Big" Bob Stewart, ex-Leading Seaman (Bunting Tosser) and subsequently ex-Devon & Cornwall P.C. in Holsworthy and Bude.

Bob was a past Chairman, Hon. Secretary and current Social Secretary of Bude Branch sadly passed away on the 18th April 2015, having just reached 68 years old. Bob will be sorely missed by family, neighbours, friends and shipmates of the Branch and locally by the Bude R.N.L.I. to whom he provided real support.

"Safe Passage, Big Feller" - you will be greatly missed

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Phyllis Lillian Money – Chard Branch

Chard Branch is saddened to inform the Association of the passing of our much loved member and former WRNS Mrs Phyllis Lillian Money nee Lovell the sister of the recently retired Chard Branch Treasurer Royal Lovell.

Phyllis joined the WRNS in1943 and served in the London area of Mill Hill during WWII having trained in Carlisle she also served in Portsmouth and HMS Glendower.

After service in the WRNS she moved to Chard where her husband was a Police Constable of the Somerset Force. Phyllis was an active member of the Branch keeping her membership up even after she moved way in later life to be nearer her son.

A lovely lady greatly missed by all her remaining Oppos of Chard.

Roy Wood – Hereford Branch

It is with great sadness that the Hereford Branch has to announce that S/m Roy Wood, President of Hereford RNA and Life Vice President of the RNA Crossed the Bar on Saturday 9th May 2015 at the age of 84. The funeral took place on Friday 22nd May at Hereford Crematorium, and afterwards at the Railway Club.

S/m Roy joined the Royal Navy at the age of 15 in 1946 and trained at HMS St Vincent at Gosport before serving on several ships including HMS Gambia, Alamein, Wizard, Triumph and Opossum where his tours of duty took him to the Far East, South Africa and Korea. Towards the end of his service he served on the shore based torpedo training ship HMS Defiant and on HMS Vanguard during her dry dock refit. His last commission was on HMS Opossum, which he always said was his favourite boat and he continued to attend their reunions annually for many years. He was discharged in 1956 after 12 years’ service and then joined the Royal Naval Reserve for a further 10 years. Whilst in service Roy excelled in the boxing ring and his agility and nimbleness probably helped in his role as buoy jumper on the Opossum.

He joined the Hereford Branch of the Royal Naval Association in June 1974 and quickly got heavily involved with the committee and took on the role of Branch Treasurer for 9 years. In 1979 the Hereford Branch had over 100 full members this was partly down to Roy and he was

33 always very proud of the fact that for a land locked branch the membership was very high. When he stood down as Treasurer he was elected as Vice Chairman for 3 years and then progressed to Chairman for another 2 years and finally served as Assistant Treasurer for 4 years.

In 1993 Roy was elected as the National Council Member for Area 7 a post he held for 8 years until he voluntarily stood down at the Annual Conference in 2001. He really excelled in this role especially working with the formation and promotion of new RNA Clubs. He was extremely popular with members in the Area, always approachable and highly respected not only by members but also by the National Council. He travelled all over the country for branch, Area meetings and Conferences liaising on issues relating to all aspects of the RNA. In 1995 he received the Sword of Honour on behalf of Area 7 for the best recruiting record and the following year attended the Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace.

In 1994 the Antenna from HMS Antelope, which had been presented to the Hereford branch was loaned to Hereford City Council for display in the Town Hall. This is something that Roy constantly reminded the Hereford committee of “Don’t forget it belongs to Hereford RNA” he would say. He was elected as Branch President in 1999 and in 2001 was honoured with a life Membership from the branch. He was then elected as Area 7 President a post he relinquished in 2013 when Hereford Branch transferred to Area 8. His final Honour was being given a Life Vice President by the National Council, one of only 13 in the whole Association, for all his work as Area 7 NCM. This obviously is proof that he was held in great admiration by the RNA and he will be greatly missed for his humour, comradeship and loyalty to the Members of the Hereford branch of the RNA. “May he find safe anchorage”.

Fredrick William Charles Thompson – HQ Role

Fred crossed the bar on 13 February 2015 aged 93 years old. He was presented with the Arctic Star by Vice Admiral David Steel at the RNA Biennial Parade in September 2013 and the Ushakov Medal last November. Fred joined the RN on 7 Jan 41 at HMS Royal Arthur in Skegness, formerly a ’Butlins’ Holiday Camp as an Ordinary Signalman on completion of training he arrived in Liverpool and was immediately thrown into Atlantic Convoy duty, which had its benefits....runs ashore in New York!! In Feb 1945 he reported for Convoy duty on JW64 thereby qualifying for the Arctic Star and Ushakov Medal. His family missing him very much and wish him God speed and Up Spirits......

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RNA Members Benefits

UK Holiday Group /CONA Holiday Service

• Variety of special deals for both Groups and Individual. 1% of turnover thorough CONA Holiday Service is returned to the RNA. http://www.royal-naval- association.co.uk/news/323/members-holidays-service

Coleman/Ansvar Insurance Discounted Branch and House hold Insurance - 01323 744149 http://www.thecolemangroup.co.uk/coleman-insurance-brokers/organisation-specific/cona

Funeral Service

• 2 ½ % discount form Wessex Funeral Services

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

• RNA member entry just £10 plus four guest at £10 each provides access to the all attractions including the Submarine Museum, RM Museum and Explosion!.

Legal Services

Free 30 minute legal advice with Coffin Mew. [email protected] 0800 827168

Breakdown Service

RAC Breakdown and recovery service [email protected] or 0207 4025231

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Type 42 Association - Reunion 002 15 July 2015

Shortcast (Run in date order)

Shortcast

HMS Glorious, Ardent & Acasta Association (GLARACs) – 5/6/7th June 2015

The 75th Anniversary of the sinking of HM Ships Glorious, Ardent & Acasta will be commemorated over the weekend 5/6/7th June 2015 in Plymouth.

Friends & Relatives of those lost on the 3 ships are invited to a Memorial weekend in Plymouth, starting Friday 5th June 2015, culminating with a Sunday Church Service and Buffet lunch in HMS Drake, Devonport.

Unfortunately due to current security entry into the Naval Base is by prior arrangement only and so families and relatives who wish to attend will need to contact either David Emery or David Woodcock (contact details below). They are also the main point of contact should anyone require any further details.

David Emery MBE, Tel. 01782 397746, or email [email protected] or David Woodcock, Tel 01229 462414,

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HMS Liverpool Association – 13 Jun 2015

Reunion takes place on June 13 at the GIs Association, Whale Island, mustering at 1200. Our association is made up of those who served on the Cruiser and the Type 42 Destroyer and new members are always welcome. For more information and membership details contact John Parker at [email protected]

11th MCM Squadron – 13 June 2015 A reunion is being planned for the 5 requisitioned trawlers, Cordella, Junella, Farnella, Northella and Pict that became mine sweepers.

The reunion will take place on June 13 at the New Clarence Pub, Hull. A commemorative service will take place on June 14 at 1400 in Holy Trinity Church, Hull in the presence of the Lord Lieutenant of East Riding of Yorkshire and the Lord Mayor of Kingston upon Hull. The ships bell of HMS Northella is currently behind the bar of the ‘Admiralty Tavern’, Trafalgar Square and they have kindly accepted to loan the bell for the service. Full details can be found on the 11th MCM Squadron Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/2567254 ... 1/?fref=ts More details from Jon Major at [email protected]

HMS Eagle Association – 11-13 September 2015

Friends of HMS Eagle are holding their 43rd reunion in the North Queensferry over the weekend of the 11-13 September 2015. All ex ‘Eagles’, their wives, partners and families are invited. For further details please contact Bill Meevil 01224 820603, 07741 300750 or Danny Du Feu 07966 258103. There is a ful programme with visits and entertainment ‘laid on’

HMS Jamaica Association - 18-21 September 2015

HMS Jamaica Association AGM and Reunion will be held at the Burlington Hotel Eastbourne over the weekend 18-21 September 2015. Please contact Mac Wilkinson (Hon Sec/Treasurer) on tel no 01843 582283 or e-mail [email protected].

HMS Ocean Association - 25 September 2015 28th Annual Reunion Dinner and AGM will be held at the Tillington Hall Hotel, Stafford from September 25 to 28. A warm welcome is extended to all ex-Oceans (R68 or L12), families and friends, whether Association members or not. Details from Secretary, Jim Hogan at [email protected]

Regulating Branch & RN Police Association – 02 October 2015

Regulating Branch & Royal Navy Police Association: Annual Reunion takes place from October 2 to 3. It takes place at HMS Excellent. All retired Regulators and serving Naval Police are welcome. For more information see the website at http://rba93.com or contact the Social secretary, W Dick at [email protected]

HMS Arethusa Association - 02 – 05 October 2015

HMS Arethusa a Leander Class Frigate was launched in 1963, commissioned into the Royal Navy in November 1965 and after twenty four years of active service worldwide, was de-commissioned in March 1989. She was the eighth ship to bear this name.

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One of twenty-six Leander Class Frigates built for the Royal Navy, she was the last warship built on the Isle of Wight at the shipyards of John Samuel White & Son in Cowes, just above the chain ferry. In 1989, following her de-commissioning, a group of former RN personnel who had served in her got together to form the “HMS Arethusa Association”. The Association has held twenty-six reunion gatherings in various parts of the UK, all of which have been attended by eighty to one hundred former crew, families and guests. Also represented in the Association were members of the 7th HMS Arethusa, a Cruiser in commission from 1935 to 1950, with meritorious service in the Second World War.

On the weekend of 2nd to 5th October 2015, HMS Arethusa Association is to hold its 27th, and final, reunion, on the Isle of Wight at The Melbourne Ardenlea Hotel, Shanklin, to commemorate fifty years of service by the ship and the Association. Following this, the Association will disband and carry on as a social group for those members remaining.

Anyone who has been associated with this ship, either during the building, during her active service and the follow up Association is invited to attend this reunion.

Full details can be obtained from – Isle of Wight Tours Ltd., 3 New Road, Lake, Sandown, Isle of Wight, PO36 9 JN. Telephone: (01983) 405116. Email: [email protected] Or – The Honorary Secretary, HMS Arethusa Association (Tom Sawyer) Email: [email protected]

HMS St Vincent Association – 02/05 October 2015

The H M S St Vincent Association AGM and Reunion Dinner welcomes all members to the re union weekend 2015 which is being held over the weekend Friday 2nd October – Monday 5th October 2015 at the Royal Beach Hotel Southsea Portsmouth. The AGM will be held in the establishment (By kind permission of St Vincent College) on Saturday 3rd October. The AGM commences at 1100 ( Doors open at 0900), and so plenty of time to re new acquaintances, visit the Museum, buy your replacement “slops” and luncheon afterwards in the College Dining Hall. Coaches will be laid on from the hotel to take you across to the College in Gosport as part of your re union package. If you wish to attend and haven’t completed your attendance form during the last re union weekend, then attendance forms will be mailed to all members in early December from Isle of Wight Tours. The address of Isle of Wight Tours is:- Isle of Wight Tours, 3 Lake Road, Lake, Sandown Isle of Wight, PO36 9JN, Telephone 01983 405116 Or Soapy Watson on 01329 310078 (M) 07786565485, [email protected]

HMS Ulster Association – 02/05 October 2015

There will be a reunion weekend from October 2nd, 2015 to October 5th, 2015 at Smiths Hotel, Weston-Super-Mare. Further details and to download booking forms see www.candoo.com/ulsternorrie/reunions.html - or please e-mail [email protected] Not internet friendly? Call Norrie Millen at 01626 779409 and leave message if no answer. The re-union is for all commissions 1943-1980.

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HMS Tartar Association - 03 October 2015

Annual reunion at the Red Lea Hotel, Scarborough from October 3 to 5. All ex-Tartar’s and wives are welcome, come and meet up with old shipmates. Bookings to be arranged by IOW Tours on 01983 405116

HMS Ajax and RPVA Association - 07 October 2015

The 50th Annual Reunion is to be held at the King Charles Hotel, Gillingham, Kent. Dinner on 7th October, with Church Service and AGM on 8th October. Family members of crew who served in cruiser and crew members who served in the frigate are most welcome.

Application forms available from Malcolm Collis at [email protected] or download from http://www.hmsajax.org/

HMS Lowestoft Reunion – 9 October 2015 The 5th annual reunion of the HMS Lowestoft Association will take place at the Royal Beach Hotel, St Helens Parade, Southsea PO4 0NR from October 9th to 11th 2015. All ex-Lowie's 1961-1985 and guests are welcome. For booking & more info contact IOW Tours on 01983 405116 or email [email protected] or email: [email protected] or visit http://www.hmslowestoft.co.uk

For information, the HMS Lowestoft Association held their 4th Annual Reunion at the Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea over the weekend 17-19 October, celebrating 53 years since the ship first commissioned. The successful and memorable event was attended by 150 ex Lowie’s, partners and guests, including 3 former Commanding Officers, Admiral Sir John Treacher, Captain Jimmy Chestnutt and Captain Charles Buckle. Vice Admiral Sir John Webster the Navigating Officer from the first commission and Vice Admiral Sir Nicholas Hill-Norton the First Lieutenant from 1971-73 were also present.

Type 21 Association - 9-10th October 2015

The Type 21 Association reunion will be held on Friday 9th and Sat 10th October 2015. Attendees should travel down the ‘pointy head Highway and muster in the St Levans Inn The programme for Saturday is - AM - AGM, PM Evening Events to be confirmed. for more information please contact ; Paul Gower PRO & Events Organiser Type 21 Club 07446196733 www.type21club.org https://www.facebook.com/groups/type21club/

HMS Llandaff F61 Association - 9/11 October 2015

The annual reunion will take place in Scarborough 9th - 11th October for details http://www.hmsllandaff.co.uk/reunion2015.htm. We are always looking for old members of the crew to come and swing the lamp and share a moment or two of your past.

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HMS Repulse Association – 16 October 2015

HMS Repulse Reunion Association is holding their next reunion from October 16 to 19 at The Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea. For more information or booking forms contact Frank Scutt at [email protected] or see the website at http://www.hms-repulse.co.uk

HMS Glory Association - 16 October 2015

Our next half yearly reunion will be at the Ascot Hotel, Derby from October 16 to 17 with a Trafalgar Dinner on Saturday night. Any former shipmates are invited. For more information contact Bernie Cohen at [email protected]

HMS Naiad Association - 16-18th October 2015

HMS Naiad Association reunion will take place at the Liner Hotel Liverpool over the weekend 16- 18th October 2015. For further please see the website or e-mail [email protected]

HMS Fife Reunion – 17 October 2015

The HMS Fife reunion will take place at HMS Nelson Warrant Officers and Senior Rates Mess on 17 October 2015, 1900-2359. For information about this reunion or to register your interest in attending please contact Warrant Officer 1, Darren Emmerton at [email protected]

Survey Ships Association – 24 – 27th October 2015

The Survey Ships Association will be holding its twenty-first reunion at the 4* Menzies Mickleover Court Hotel, Derby, on the w/e of 24th – 27th October. For information on membership and reunion please send a SAE to: The Secretary SSA,17 Eliza Mackenzie Court, Lindisfarne Close, Cosham, Portsmouth, PO6 2SB, e-mail: [email protected], or telephone 023 9232 4795.

HMS Relentless Reunion – 27 November 2015

The 3rd annual Reunion of the HMS Relentless Association will take place at the Royal Beach Hotel, St Helens Parade, Southsea, PO4 0NR from November 27th to 30th 2015. All ex-Rusty R’s 1942-1968 and their guests are welcome. For booking & more info contact IOW Tours on 01983 405116 or email [email protected]. Or contract Association Secretary on 02392 599640, email [email protected].

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Swinging the Lamp - June

Date Year Entry 1st 1998 Lt Katherine Babbington, first woman to win the Queen’s Sword at Dartmouth, presented with the sword by Her Majesty at Buckingham Palace. Lt Babbington was serving in Sandown in the Gulf when Divisions were held. 2nd 1854 Parliament passed an Act ‘to empower the Commissioners of the Admiralty to construct a tunnel between H.M. Dockyard at Devonport and H.M. Steam Yard at Keyham’. 3rd 1747 Captains who were not to be employed again were automatically promoted to flag rank and became ‘Superannuated Rear-Admirals’. Nicknamed the Yellow Squadron. 4th 2007 Universal right to elect trial by court martial. Any officer or rating whose offence was capable of being tried summarily could henceforth elect for court martial instead. RN Regulating Branch re-mustered as RN Police. Regulating ranks and rates unchanged. New slides and boards for officers and ratings with RN Police added to standard designs first shipped on 17 December 2008. 5th 1939 Admiral Sir Andrew Cunningham arrived at Alexandria in cruiser Penelope and took over next day from Admiral Sir Dudley Pound as C-in-C Mediterranean. 6th 1944 D-Day

Ships taking part in the Operation - of which 78 per cent were British (including Canadian), 17 per cent were American, and 5 per cent were French, Norwegian, Dutch, Polish and Greek. Over 10,000 Royal Marines took part, including 5 RM CDOs, an Armoured Support Group, an RM Engineering CDO, Landing Craft Obstruction Units, signallers, drivers etc. Marines manned two-thirds of the assault landing craft.

Warships 1,212 Landing Ships and Craft 4,026 Ancillaries 731 Merchant Vessels 864 Total 6,833

7th 1973 Second Cod War. First collision between frigate Scylla and the Icelandic Coastguard vessel Aegir. Eleven further collisions were to follow. 8th 1915 King George V opened Rosyth Dockyard. 9th 2005 The bow section of Daring, the first Type 45 destroyer, built by Vosper Thornycroft in Portsmouth Dockyard, left Portsmouth on a barge for the Clyde where it was united with the ship’s main hull at BAE Systems yard at Scotstoun.

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10th 1960 ‘A case has occurred in which items of officers’ clothing have been damaged whilst stored in their cabin wardrobes. The damage was attributed to intermittent rubbing of the clothes against fittings which projected inside the wardrobes, resulting in excessive wear of clothes in direct contact with such items . . . Commanding Officers of HM Ships are to arrange for all officers’ wardrobes to be examined . . .’ – AFO 1549/60. 11th 1847 Sir John Franklin, naval officer and Arctic explorer, died on his ill-fated expedition in Erebus and Terror to find the North–West Passage. While his fate was still uncertain he was promoted to rear-admiral of the blue 26 October 1852. When it was ascertained that he had died earlier, the Admiralty annulled the promotion and removed his name. 12th 1652 Capt Sir George Ayscue (Rainbow) with a squadron of four men-of-war and seven hired merchantmen, captured six ships of the Dutch outward-bound Portuguese trade off Lizard Head. 13th 1514 Henry VIII launched Henry Grace à Dieu at Woolwich and paid the Chaplain who blessed her 6s 8d. 14th 1853 Chief Petty Officers. Admiralty Circular No. 121: ‘My Lords consider that it would improve the discipline of her Majesty’s ships, and be in other respects advantageous to the Service, to establish a class of Chief Petty Officers, and they therefore direct that the following be established accordingly: Chief petty officers – Masters-at-Arms, Chief Gunner’s Mate, Chief Boatswain’s Mate, Admiral’s Coxswain, Chief Captain of Forecastle, Chief Quarter-Master, Chief Carpenter’s Mate, Seamen’s Schoolmaster, Ship’s Steward, Ship’s Cook. As an inducement to render themselves proficient in all branches of their duty . . . My Lords are pleased to direct that a higher class of able seamen be established under the denomination “leading seamen” . . . to be exempted from corporal punishment, except by sentence of a court martial, or for mutiny.’ 15th 1944 Sickle sunk by mine in Aegean. The forty-fifth and last submarine lost in the Mediterranean. 16th 1987 Warrior (1860) arrived at Portsmouth. Ex-Hulk C77, removed from the Navy List as Vernon III in 1904, ex-Warrior, second of the name. 17th 1918 Lychnis, the only First World War Q-ship to serve in Second World War, sank U-64 off southern Sardinia (38.07N, 10.27E). 18th 1940 RNAS Yeovilton (HMS Heron) commissioned. ‘The new fighter training station . . . was nothing but three runways in an ocean of mud.’ – Capt Eric Brown, Wings on my Sleeve, p.12. 19th 2003 Albion, Capt Peter Hudson RN, commissioned at Devonport in the presence of her sponsor, HRH The Princess Royal and Admiral of the Fleet Sir Henry Leach, Captain of the previous Albion. 20th 1982 Illustrious commissioned. The first RN warship to be commissioned at sea. 21st 1997 Cdr Charles Eckersley-Maslin, naval aviator, died aged 96 in Tasmania. In 1918, lying about his age, he enlisted in the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders and was wounded in France. Found to be still only 16, he was returned to Bedford School ‘where he was treated with some awe’. Served five years in RAF; resigned his reserve commission in February 1939 and joined the Royal Navy as a lieutenant-commander. Wartime service in carriers in Far East and

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Mediterranean and commanded HMS Simbang, the RNAS in Singapore, during Korean War. Father of Rear-Admiral David Eckersley-Maslin. 22nd 1841 Trafalgar, first rate, launched at Woolwich in the presence of HM Queen Victoria and HRH Prince Albert by Nelson’s niece, Lady Bridport, using a bottle of wine which had been in Victory at Trafalgar. The figurehead is in the RN Museum, Portsmouth. 23rd 1915 First successful action of a RN decoy ship in anti-submarine operations. Disguised trawler Taranaki, Lt H.D. Edwards, towing submerged submarine C 24, Lt F.H. Taylor, intercepted by U-40, Kapitanleutnant Gerhardt Furbringer, off Aberdeen. U-boat put a shell across her bows and the trawler’s crew simulated panic. Telephone link to C 24 failed and she could not slip her end of the tow. Taranaki therefore cast off her end and with 100 fathoms of 3.5-in wire hawser, 100 fathoms of coir hawser and 200 fathoms of telephone cable trailing from her bows C 24 torpedoed U-40 (57.00N, 01.50W). C 24 surfaced but had twenty turns of the telephone cable wrapped around her propeller shaft. 24th 1340 Battle of Sluys, Edward III (Thomas) captured or destroyed the whole of the French fleet of about 200 vessels in the Zwyn, thus pre-empting a French descent on England, and recaptured the Christopher. His letter of 28 June to the Black Prince may count as the first naval dispatch. 25th 1908 Indomitable commissioned. First battlecruiser and first of the name. 26th 1857 Queen Victoria held the first VC investiture in Hyde Park, decorating sixty-two of the eighty-five men gazetted. Thirteen of the twenty-seven RN and RM recipients had been attached to Naval Brigades. 27th 1734 First official recognition of the title Commodore as a temporary rank made by King George II. ‘Our Will and Pleasure therefore is . . . That Commodores with Broad Pendants have the same Respects as Brigadiers General, which is, to have one Ruffle.’ 28th 2005 2005 HM The Queen reviewed an international fleet at Spithead from the Antarctic patrol ship Endurance led by the THV Patricia. HM Ships present: Albion, Archer, Bangor, Blazer, Bulwark, Cattistock, Cardiff, Chatham, Cumberland, Endurance, Enterprise, Example, Exeter, Explorer, Gloucester, Gleaner, Grafton, Grimsby, Invincible, Illustrious, Iron Duke, Lancaster, Ledbury, Marlborough, Middleton, Montrose, Nottingham, Ocean, Pembroke, Puncher, Raider, Ramsey, Ranger, Roebuck, Scott, Shoreham, Sovereign, Southampton, St Albans, Tracker, Trafalgar, Trumpeter, Turbulent, Tyne, Walney, Westminster. RFAs Argus, Fort George, Fort Victoria, Hurst Point, Orangeleaf, Sir Bedivere, Sir Galahad, Sir Tristram, Wave Ruler, HMAS Anzac, HMCS Montreal. 29th 1950 The Communist North Korean Army attacked the South Koreans across the 38th parallel. Within a week the Royal Navy was operating in Korean waters, sinking coastal shipping and attacking communications ashore. The Chinese reinforced the North Koreans and advanced into North Korea during the winter, driving the United Nations forces back. Allied sea power was used to the full, both in launching seaborne air attacks against North Korean forces, and in evacuating and landing troops as required. Russian-built MiG jet

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fighters were deployed against the Fleet Air Arm in Korea. Lt P. Carmichael shot down the first Russian MiG to be destroyed by the Royal Navy and, remarkably, by a piston engined aircraft. 30th 1997 Hong Kong returned to China at midnight. Prince of Wales and former Governor, Mr Chris Patten, embarked in HM Yacht Britannia at 0022 1 July, completing British withdrawal. Ship sailed at 0045 and, with Royal Marine band playing ‘Rule Britannia’ and ‘Jerusalem’, amplified by ship’s broadcast, she led Chatham, Peacock, Starling, Plover and RFA Sir Percivale out of harbour. Group rendezvoused with seventeen ships of Ocean Wave Task Group commanded by Rear-Admiral Alan West, which had been standing by over the horizon. All ships steamed past Britannia on 1 July.

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