Gunline - The First Point of Contact Published by the Service Autumn 2011 www.rfa.mod.uk ROSALIE’S KEY ROLE IN UK’S LIBYAN OPS he Royal Fleet Auxiliary’s support to Royal having been transferred so far. This regular TNaval operations off Libya is being sustained by transfer of mail and personnel has undoubtedly Fort Rosalie and her ship’s company. As street helped to enhance the morale of the ships on fighting continues in Tripoli between Free Libya operations. Forces and members of Colonel Gaddafi’s former One of the most important elements of sustaining regime, British and NATO military forces including the deployment has been the support given to the the RFA are maintaining a presence in the region. In Naval Fire Support missions conducted at various the lead up to Free Libya Forces entering Tripoli the times by HM Ships, , Sutherland and Iron RAF continued to strike at key Colonel Gaddafi Duke. The changes on the ground and the dynamic targets within the city as part of NATO’s Operation operational situation in Libya has several times Unified Protector. required ammunition replenishments to be RFA Fort Rosalie initially sailed from the UK in programmed at very short notice but the ship has April as part of the Response Force Task Group been able to rise to the challenge to meet this (RFTG) to conduct a series of pre-planned requirement. amphibious exercises in the Mediterranean, known Fort Rosalie conducts a double RAS with HMS Albion Looking ahead, the port visit to Malta in as Cougar 11. However, the last five months have and HMS Ocean. September for a maintenance period will ensure the arguably seen the busiest period of maritime Photograph by LA(Phot) Guy Pool. ship remains fully operational for continued operations since Op Telic in 2003. With the operational tasking and will allow the crew a escalating events in Libya, the UK Government took and the loading of weapons from the UK through a welcome stand down from a highly intensive the opportunity in May to re-task HMS Ocean and forward logistics site in Crete. Concurrent with this, an operational programme; without doubt this has been her embarked helicopters, along with her support additional Apache helicopter was flown on board the one of the most challenging and rewarding ship Fort Rosalie, to assist in the enforcement of the ship, a first for the RFA, which was subsequently deployments for an AFSH since Op Telic. United Nations Security Council Resolution to transferred to HMS Ocean. The Commander of the Task Group, Commodore protect Libyan citizens. Since then Fort Rosalie has General stores to support the Task Group have been John Kingwell said: “Fort Rosalie has played a key been a key enabler for force projection and has brought from the UK by road and air via a Forward part in supporting operations in the Mediterranean. provided sustained support to some six British Logistic Site located in southern Italy. These have then Her people have done a first class job and warships, key amongst which have been HMS been transferred to Rosalie for delivery to the ships in demonstrated the importance of the Royal Fleet Ocean, HMS Liverpool and HMS Bangor. the Task Group but the seamanship challenges of Auxiliary in the Response Force Task Group.” Fort Rosalie departed Crombie on the 24 April loading cargo stores both alongside and at anchor in a Major General Nick Pope, the Chief of the 2011 laden with 6000m3 of stores and joined with very short timescale shouldn’t be underestimated. Port Defence Staff’s Communications Officer, said: the other RFTG units early in May. Since then she visits to collect cargo have been of short 24 to 48 hour The naval capability would not have been has provided 2,191 pallets of various types of stores duration as part of a highly flexible and responsive possible without the support of RFA Fort Rosalie in with a total weight of 800 tonnes through 29 separate programme to ensure logistic support to the other ships her delivery of military operations. heavy jackstay transfers together with 9 VERTREPS. has been optimised. The high tempo of logistic The Cougar 11 deployment demonstrated Op Ellamy has, though, provided some unique operations involved with supporting Op Ellamy has the Response Force Task Group (RFTG) concept. sustainability challenges for Fort Rosalie given the required a close level of co-operation between all The RFTG is a new initiative announced in last deployment of Apache attack helicopters onboard departments on board Rosalie to achieve the common year’s Strategic Defence and Security Review and is HMS Ocean. With limited storage space in the objective. the heart of the UK’s maritime contingent capability, magazines of HMS Ocean, additional ammunition In addition, Rosalie has also moved , held at very high readiness to respond to unexpected stowage has been provided by Rosalie, requiring the Royal Marine and Army Air Corps personnel as well as global events. It highlights the enduring need for the reconfiguration of munitions store rooms on board journalists to and from Theatre with over 200 personnel armed forces to plan and train for unforeseen events that may occur in parallel with the defence main effort of current operations. ROYALROYAL FLEETFLEET AUXILIARYAUXILIARY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITY WEBSITEWEBSITE The role of RFA Fort Rosalie is to replenish ForFor ,, theirtheir andand Royal Navy warships with dry stores such as food, ServingServing MembersMembers FamilyFamily FriendsFriends spare parts and ammunition whilst at sea. This complex task is carried out by both ships steaming INFORMATION ADVICE along side-by-side and transferring stores along a  cable rigged between them or by using helicopters to  COMMUNICATION transfer loads. With extensive storage areas for the stowage of everything from food to weapons and the ability to rearm and resupply the Royal Navy while underway, coupled to her capacity to carry extra helicopters, makes Fort Rosalie a highly flexible and www.rfacom.mod.uk important part of any naval task group. 2 - Gunline Commodore Bill Walworth ARGUS ASSISTS IN EVACUATION OFF LIBYA he editor of Gunline has to FA ARGUS who returned to Falmouth in July has By the time she returned to Falmouth for a well Tmake the front page eye Rrecently been involved in no fewer than three earned maintenance period, ARGUS had steamed over catching. The spring edition separate tasking. The ship which can operate as both 21,000 nautical miles, consumed nearly 40 tons of certainly was, although my headline suggestion ‘RFA - All primary casualty reception facility, and a helicopter potatoes, two tons of bacon and 40,000 eggs. Her at Sea’ was firmly rejected! landing platform has taken part in Operations embarked aircraft have flown for over 250 hours, and Most of our ships and people Deference and Hunt in the four and a half months she conducted well over 350 deck landings. Reflecting on were on high tempo operations was away; supporting operations in the Mediterranean another successful deployment, in which ARGUS once and the commitments and the Gulf of Aden. again demonstrated her ability to adapt to tasking at continued at that pace throughout the summer. ARGUS sailed at less than twenty four hours notice very short notice. There are some great stories submitted by individuals in this edition. If you are part of the to assist in the operation to evacuate civilians from Commander CTF 151 R-Adm. Chan said: “RFA family” be proud of the way we continue to Libya. Having successfully completed this mission, she I would like to express my thanks for your invaluable perform, whether you are at sea or part of the then passed through the Suez Canal; spending a further contributions to the counter-piracy efforts in the Gulf of supporting team ashore, at home or deployed. ten weeks at high readiness to conduct an evacuation of Aden over the past months. Since 16 Mar 11, RFA While we’ve been focused on operations we civilians from if called upon. Throughout this ARGUS has been providing support to CTF 151 and have also been implementing the painful process time ARGUS was also making a significant contribution your willingness to accept a wide sector coverage in the of reducing our manpower, the details of which I have previously explained. This is a sad event and to the maritime security of the area by mounting anti- IRTC during these months, being the only ship to cover in part softened by the fact that everyone so far has piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden. Her presence, six sectors, is indeed commendable. I know that the left under the voluntary scheme. I hope we will combined with the ability to search large areas of the presence of your ship, as one with Level 2/ 3 medical have concluded this process by next spring. busy sea lanes in this area using her three embarked facilities, is also reassuring to the many coalition ships It is now almost eighteen months since Largs Merlin Helicopters ensured that no ships were pirated in in the area. Furthermore, your willingness to make ad Bay sailed to deliver critical humanitarian support her patrol area throughout this phase of the deployment. hoc changes to accommodate CTF 151 requirements on to the people of Haiti. In recognition of the excellent work that the ship’s company and many occasions is something that I deeply appreciate. embarked forces delivered in the region, I am Lastly, on a personal note, I would like to thank you once delighted to report that the ship has had her again for the kind and warm hospitality shown to my outstanding achievements recognised by the wider delegation and I when we visited your ship on 22 Apr 11. audience and been awarded The Firmin Sword of Please accept my heartfelt thanks and congratulations Peace. Many congratulations to all those who for the many missions well accomplished. I look forward ensured the ship was able to deliver the aid in what were difficult conditions and circumstances. to continuing our close cooperation with the other UK Over the summer I visited HMS Raleigh and ships performing CP operations in the area. Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth, to meet the RFA staff and trainees. Raleigh offers FACTS/FIGURES excellent training for the logistics and seamanship OP HUNT – 110 Days duration, recruits in well equipped and realistic galleys, with 285 personnel on board. storerooms, RAS rigs, seamanship equipment as well as boats on the river. The heavy RAS test rig Commanding Officer Capt. Paul Kehoe said: for the future solid support ships to supply the “The short notice deployment to the Mediterranean Basic foodstuffs consumed:- Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers is under and the Gulf of Aden demonstrated once again the Bacon 1997.6 kg construction and will become the training rig for flexibility and readiness of the Royal Navy and the Sausages 3995.2 kg all RAS training in the future. During my visit to Royal Fleet Auxiliary to react almost instantaneously to Eggs 3300 dozen Dartmouth I witnessed an RFA team passing out world events. The ship’s company, 820 Naval Air Baked Beans 114 x 2.72 kg tins with their naval colleagues, before heading off to nautical colleges. To say I am very proud of all the Squadron and A Company 40 Commando Royal Potatoes 37500 kg RFA people I met at both places is an Marines quickly integrated into a cohesive team ready Cabbage 980 kg understatement and I left feeling really confident to undertake all the tasks the ship was given. I am proud Milk 6600 ltr for the future. I am planning autumn visits to HMS of how all on board performed throughout the last few Fruit Juice 1980 ltr Collingwood and Sultan to see our months, not least in their efforts in raising money for Toilet Roll 8580 Rolls communicators, deck officers, engineer officers various charities during this busy deployment. All on and ratings. The demanding entry process and induction courses are paying off as well trained, board are looking forward to getting back to the UK and Flying Stats informed and motivated people take up seeing their families again.“ Deck Landings appointments. Needless to say individual training Along the way RN and RFA crew members, as well March - 151 has to be pulled together in the ship, as part of its as embarked personnel from 820 Naval Air Squadron April - 111 daily life, and by our diligent team down at Flag and 40 Commando RM found time to raise over £3000 May - 88 Officer Sea Training (FOST). Recently I inspected for charity. A host of events were arranged during the Gold Rover at the end of her FOST training. Work Total flying hours Ups are gruelling but give the ship tailored training deployment to raise money, including “horse racing” and for their future tasks. Captain Ray Bennett and his a village fete on the flight deck, a 30km gym challenge, March – 88.34 ship’s company were outstanding and assessed as a simulated cycle from Lands End to John O’Groats, and April – 91.33 Very Satisfactory, an excellent result. a run up the Rock of in a fire suit! May – 60.17 Captain Hood and his team in Pers Ops will issue the personnel plans for the future over the next few months, including getting promotion boards back on track. Top of his list is a more LIVERPOOL YOUNG OFFICERS GET ACQUAINTED efficient appointing scheme to meet the new schemes of complement. We can continue to look WITH LIFE ON BOARD RFA FORT ROSALIE forward to a professionally challenging and well- wo trainee Warfare officers from HMS Liverpool Sub Lieutenant Tom Stanford said: “This period has rewarded career as we develop our stride, but we Thave recently spent a week on board RFA Fort been very valuable to our training, as not only did it will have to restructure in a number of areas to Rosalie whilst both ships have been deployed to the provide us with an excellent opportunity to practice meet operational and financial demands. We are Mediterranean as part of the ongoing Libyan operation. astro-navigation, but also, perhaps more importantly, it consulting widely and everyone in the RFA needs During their Fleet Time Young Officers of the allowed us to gain an insight into the operational life of to be involved. Some of the ideas from the Flotilla on efficiency and cost effectiveness have been Warfare specialisation are required to learn all aspects an RFA vessel undertaking its core business.” excellent and show we are all working towards the of bridge watch-keeping and so with their ship Sub Lieutenant Harry Ebbitt said: “This should be same ends. alongside for maintenance it provided an ideal of great use in our future careers as it will provide an Enjoy this edition of Gunline. Together let’s see opportunity for them to gain an insight into the Royal understanding of the processes that go on ‘behind the the RFA moving forward. Keep it up and well done Fleet Auxiliary Service and the logistic support scenes’ in order to conduct a successful Replenishment everyone. available to the Task Group. At Sea. We will remember our time onboard fondly.” Gunline - 3 RFA SUPPORTS COUGAR DEPLOYMENT even Royal Navy warships and auxiliary vessels, exercises in coastal waters involving of Group enables the Royal Navy to respond at short Swith embarked Royal Marines and helicopters, 3 Commando Brigade. It was the first major exercise of notice to unforeseen events in an unpredictable and converged in waters off Cyprus for exercises as part of the complete RFTG in the Cougar 11 deployment. fast-moving world. the Cougar 11 deployment. To ensure the deployed forces had all the necessary “Naval forces are ideally placed to respond to a Three ships - HMS Albion, HMS Sutherland, and support and capabilities to deliver on its objectives, a range of missions central to UK defence and security. Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) vessel Cardigan Bay left detachment from the Royal Logistic Corps (RLC), The involvement of marines from the Netherlands the UK with elements of the commando force at the based at the Sea Mounting Centre in Marchwood, were underlines the role that the RFTG can play alongside beginning of April, and visited Cyprus for a series of integrated with the other ships of the RFTG. The team our international partners in support of wider maritime amphibious exercises. from the RLC worked with the ship’s company and security and regional stability.” For Exercise Cypriot Lion, they were joined by a RMs to ensure that all the necessary equipment was The RFTG is a new initiative announced in last second group of ships - the helicopter carrier HMS maintained and operational throughout the deployment year’s Strategic Defence and Security Review and is at Ocean, landing ship RFA Mounts Bay, fast fleet and in the correct location to ensure integrated support the heart of the UK’s maritime contingent capability, RFA Wave Knight, and supply ship RFA Fort Rosalie, with all the units. held at very high readiness to respond to unexpected between them having the personnel, supplies and In addition to the Royal Marines and elements of 3 global events. It highlights the enduring need for the equipment which would enable her to deliver logistical Commando Brigade Headquarters, the Task Group also Armed Forces to plan and train for unforeseen events support of Amphibious Training in Cyprus and Albania. included marines from the Royal Netherlands Marine The RFA has yet again demonstrated its capability Corps, with whom the UK has a long-standing by delivering maritime support to Op Cougar, the major association. UK deployment for 2011. The ships were put through Mounts Bay, who had been joined by her sister ship their paces and have again demonstrated the ships Cardigan Bay, embarked the Dutch Marines to partake unique capabilities of delivering support to a deployed in Exercise Albanian Lion, further demonstrating the task group by undertaking a wide range of tasking in RFA’s integrated capabilities. Both countries have a support of operations. history of co-operation in the field of amphibious Mounts Bay joined the Flagship, HMS Albion in warfare that dates back to the Siege of Gibraltar in that may occur in parallel with ongoing high priority, Crete and became an integrated part of the UK’s 1704, a relationship cemented through the creation of a resource intensive, military operations. Initially, the Responsive Force Task Group (RFTG). She was actively joint UK-Netherlands Landing Force in 1973. Task Group demonstrated its amphibious capabilities involved in Exercise Cypriot Lion, the initial exercise off Mounts Bay then embarked two Sea Kings from through multinational exercises in the Mediterranean, Cyprus with embarked forces from 30 and 40 Commando 846 NAS, Yeovilton to conduct a week long exercise before conducting further exercises in the Indian Ocean Royal Marines (RM) part of 3 Commando Brigade. In off the Vlore Peninsula. This exercise was the first UK and the Gulf. addition to the RM contingent, other attached units, major amphibious training exercise with the Albanian Mounts Bay’s Commanding Officer, Captain Peter included the Royal Navy’s Fleet Diving Unit and Forces (AL). Albania joined NATO in 2009 and the Farmer, said: “Op Cougar allowed the ship’s company personnel from Royal Naval Air Squadron (RNAS) importance of this inaugural AL/UK exercise was of along with the Embarked Military Force to reinvigorate Culdrose, who were actively engaged in the exercise. such importance that the Albanian President, Bamir the core skills of Amphibious Warfare and Topi, along with senior military and ministerial figures demonstrated the benefits of the Responsive Force Task from Albania attended the event and were hosted by the Group and the versatility of the RFA. The integration of British and Dutch Ambassadors throughout. our UK forces with those of Albania showed the value Mounts Bay as the lead ship in this section of the of working together within NATO and with our new deployed Amphibious Task Force was able to NATO ally. The importance of this relationship was demonstrate to the presidential party the ship’s emphasised by the visit of the Albanian President, and capabilities before the presidential entourage mover opened up the potential for a most interesting and very ashore to witness the amphibious assault. The useful training opportunity for the Royal Marines. Our embarked RMs, who were exercising ashore on Albanian allies were very keen to host us and most unusual terrain, overlooking the Strait of Otranto welcoming throughout the visit. This exercise proved linking the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, found the training again the versatility and utility of the LSDA Class of opportunity very beneficial. The region for many years the Royal Fleet Auxiliary to support an amphibious had been used as a base for Soviet Forces. force worldwide.” Photo Credit: 1/O Alistair Clack Commodore John Kingwell, Commander UK Task Mounts Bay on having completed her support to the Exercise Cypriot Lion, was designed to demonstrate Group, commanded the Task Group from the fleet RM’s continued her programme and made a call in the versatile capabilities and high readiness of the flagship, HMS Albion said: Valletta, Malta and then on to Souda Bay, Crete, both Royal Navy’s new RFTG, combined air defence “Consisting of ships, helicopters and Royal Marines visits enabling the ship to partake in regional exercises and live firings out at sea with amphibious held at high readiness, the Responsive Force Task engagement before returning to the UK on 21 June. MAJOR AMPHIBIOUS TASK GROUP COME HOME ardigan Bay has returned to the UK arriving into changing demands placed upon the ship and her valuable exercise with the Saudi Arabian armed CMarchwood, Southampton on Friday 5th August embarked Royal Marines has resulted in a varied and forces. Throughout the deployment, the ship has again after a four month operational deployment as part of demanding programme. Highlights have included a demonstrated the versatility of the LSDA, and the the UK’s Responsive Force Task Group (RFTG) valued part the RFA can play in support of British supporting maritime security operations. The interests around the world.” deployment was codenamed Cougar 11 and was the Highlights of the trip included exercising with the first deployment of the UK’S maritime quick reaction Saudi Arabian armed forces strengthening the UK’s force. Whilst on the deployment RFA Cardigan Bay relationships, influence and ability to work with other was tasked to support NATO operations to protect countries in the Middle East. civilians in Libya and to increase pressure on the Cougar 11 has successfully demonstrated our Gaddafi regime. ability to respond at short notice to unforeseen The ship’s Commanding Officer Captain Paul circumstances and enhanced our co-operation with Minter RFA said, “Since sailing from the UK at the partner nations and support capacity building. beginning of April, the ship has had a very busy period operating as part of the Responsive Force Task Group (RFTG) on Operation Cougar 11. The ever Photo Credit: 1/O Alistair Clack 4 - Gunline RFA WAVE KNIGHT DEMONSTRATES FORT ROSALIE’S AH FIRST ort Rosalie was able to lay claim to the first Army CAPABILITY IN SUPPORT OF OPERATIONS FAir Corps Attack Helicopter (AH) Landing. The ship has recently seen, as part of the activity in the Mediterranean, the first single spot landing of an ave Knight sailed from Portland on 26 April as Wave Knight entered the Red Sea on 16 June as part Apache aircraft in the RN/RFA. Wpart of the Op Cougar deployment to the Eastern of Op Cougar and again proved her worth by Mediterranean. replenishing UK and foreign warships before heading RFA Wave Knight has operated as the Arabian Gulf north to the Gulf. Ready Tanker (AGRT) after transferring Operational Wave Knight spent 67 out of 74 days at sea after Control from the Responsive Force Task Group leaving UK, an impressive task which demonstrates the (RFTG). The ship has demonstrated the self sufficiency ship’s and ship’s capabilities demonstrating versatile integrated support and value for money. All on board saw the work as a logistical challenge that the professional seafarers of the RFA service took in their stride. Commanding Officer Vernon Ramsay-Smith Captain Ross Ferris’ Intrigue with AH said. “OP COUGAR The AH was secured for her time in Fort Rosalie and proved to be a huge then transferred to HMS Ocean at the next programmed success for Wave Knight. replenishment. We conducted a number This represented a highly successful evolution with of fuel replenishments, a lot of prior planning involved. Aviation standard supporting the COUGAR task group as well as units operating under the NATO banner. As well as fuel Wave Knight delivered essential of the task force for prolonged periods at sea by stores support to ship’s operating in defence of the continually replenishing the Royal Navy and foreign Libyan people”. national warships. “It’s was hard work for the ship’s company, but they As real world events in the region developed the are all very proud of their achievements, as indeed am ship detached from the main task group for a high I.” speed passage to rendezvous with HMS Liverpool and “The hard work continues with a welcome Assisted operating procedures reviews had to be reviewed, risk SPS Menedez Nunez, 60 miles off Misrata, Libya. Maintenance Period in Dubai before again putting to assessments conducted on all aspects of the evolution Successful Replenishments At Sea (RAS) were sea in support of UKMCC operations in the Middle and Fort Rosalie’s flight deck team receiving AH conducted with both ships, which were operating under East region.” familiarisation on board HMS Ocean. NATO and conducting military operations in defence of the Libyan civilian personnel. Contingency Operations didn’t end there. Wave Knight was again tasked for fast passage to both Malta WAVE RULER CALLS INTO GRAND TURK and Crete to consolidate cargo and transfer essential stores and equipment. Returning to the task group FA Wave Ruler made a Regional Engagement With an extensive range of disaster relief stores, RVisit to Grand Turk, from the 16th to 20th June Wave Ruler is capable of providing food, water and 2011. This was the third time the ship has visited the shelter where required. Additionally the ship and her Turks and Caicos Islands, for regional engagement crew can provide medical and humanitarian aid, search with the first visit in July 2008 to Providenciales. and request facilities utilising the Lynx helicopter Wave Ruler has previously been stationed in the onboard, together with technical assistance utilising Far East, Persian Gulf and as APT(S) (Atlantic Patrol their training, skills, knowledge and experience. Task (South) in the South Atlantic, supporting the Whilst at sea working in support of local defence as well as working in territorial and police forces, from a host of nations, waters around the UK. together with United States Coast Guard, Wave Ruler A significant part of the Royal Navy’s presence is, conducts maritime patrols. patrolling the North Atlantic and Caribbean. RFA During the visit to Grand Turk Wave Ruler will be Wave Ruler’s primary role is to provide support to conducting Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief the UK Overseas territories and strengthen the UK visits to enhance awareness of facilities available on Government’s commitment in the region. This role Grand Turk, and assist Wave Ruler in preparing to includes providing regional support in the event of provide future humanitarian aid assistance should the natural disasters such as hurricanes. island require it. Wave Knight conducted an impressive 11 RAS A prime example is in September 2008 when The Captain was quoted as saying “We are evolutions issuing a total of 9516cz of Diesel and 205cz Wave Ruler assisted Grand Turk when hurricane Ike delighted to be in Grand Turk. Our visit confirms the of Aviation Fuel. caused major damage through the island. Teams UK’s close relationship with Grand Turk. Wave Ruler Before departing the Mediterranean, Wave Knight where deployed on various tasks, which included is in the Region to support UK Overseas Territories again returned to Crete for another busy period of restoring power to the islands reverse osmosis plant; provide regional support in the event of natural consolidating Cargo, Crew roulement and uplifting providing temporary roofing and restoring power to disasters and contribute to Law Enforcement. The stores and food levels sailing 72 hours later for the the health clinic as well as distributing bottled water Ship’s Company is looking forward to the visit and Suez Canal. and food. the opportunity to experience Grand Turk”. Gunline - 5 RFA FORT ROSALIE COMMEMORATES WWII SIEGE OF MALTA

uring her recent visit to Malta, Fort Rosalie took event concluded with a wreath laying ceremony at sea, her support ship Fort Rosalie, to assist in the Dpart in commemorations for the 69th anniversary a moving tribute to those who had sacrificed their lives enforcement of the United Nations Security Council of Op Pedestal, the Second World War convoy to in bringing valuable supplies to the island. Resolution to protect Libyan citizens. relieve Malta. Fort Rosalie and HMS Ocean have been visiting The British High Commissioner in Malta invited Malta in order to embark vital stores and conduct representatives from both Fort Rosalie and HMS Ocean maintenance that could not be done at sea, as well as to to attend official ceremonies to commemorate the 69th ensure that both ships’ companies were rested and Anniversary of Operation Pedestal, the key convoy to refreshed. Their short absence from operations was relieve the siege of ‘Fortress Malta’ during the Second coordinated with other NATO units in order to ensure World War, known locally as the Santa Marija Convoy. that the pressure was maintained on the Libyan regime. Captain Phillip T Hanton RFA laid a wreath on behalf of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary at two official ceremonies to mark this historic event.

Wreath laying on board the wooden sailing vessel “Gulet” The ceremony on the evening of the 15 August was an annual event organised by the Royal Naval Officers’ Association supported by their Patron, Her Excellency Ms Louise Stanton the British High Commissioner in Malta. The evening consisted of a cruise of the Grand Harbour in Valletta, departing from Sliema seafront on A retired RFA Radio Officer laying a wreath on a wooden sailing Gulet, a wreath laying ceremony and behalf of the RFA Service supported by Captain buffet meal. As well as officers from Fort Rosalie and Phillip Hanton, Commanding Officer RFA Fort HMS Ocean, the event was supported by Rosalie representatives from the , the Merchant Since her last port visit to Malta in early July, HMS ‘At the going down of the sun and in the morning we Navy and the United States Navy. Ocean has had an intensive period at sea launching her will remember them’ Fort Rosalie and HMS Ocean left the UK in April, Apache Attack Helicopters from 656 Squadron Army The ceremony on the evening of the 12 August forming part of the UK’s Response Force Task Group Air Corps into Libya in support of the NATO led consisted of an open air service at Barriera Wharf in to conduct a series of pre-planned amphibious operation. The Apaches have been ably assisted by other Valletta’s Grand Harbour. The solemnity of the exercises in the Mediterranean, known as Cougar 11. helicopters embarked in HMS Ocean namely Sea King occasion was enhanced by the choir, the World War With the escalating events in Libya, the UK Mk 7s of 857 Naval Air Squadron providing maritime Two Living History Group, who fired a salute, and the Government took the opportunity in May to re-task surveillance and Lynx Mk 7s of 847 Naval Air Squadron presence of veterans involved with the Operation. The HMS Ocean and her embarked helicopters, along with providing force protection and logistic support. RFA WAVE KNIGHT AND THE LYNN RIVAL ome of our readers may recall the incident last year too – equally fraught and interesting – but wholly during their captivity. They both looked very well and Sinvolving Paul and Rachel Chandler and their yacht unconnected to the Paul and Rachel piece. showed no signs of any psychological trauma albeit – the ‘Lynn Rival’. The couple were kidnapped in the Paul and Rachel subsequently wrote a letter of Paul had not fully recovered his physical fitness. Indian Ocean during Oct 2009. RFA Wave Knight appreciation to the Prime Ministers’ Office for the Refreshingly, they have not lost any enthusiasm became involved in the incident, inaccurate details of Government’s assistance and specifically requested whatsoever to return to sea in ‘Lynn Rival’ – except which subsequently appeared in the press. The they’ll probably go ‘west-about’ next time around..!! Chandler’s wrote to the Prime Ministers’ Office late Amusingly, they thought that the MoD would ‘bill’ last year and said: them for bringing their yacht home. Sorry people – no ‘… We would be grateful if you could pass our salvage! thanks to the Royal Navy for recovering Lynn Rival and Paul and Rachel have spent much of their time since transporting her to Britain. It was wonderful to be late 2010 writing memoirs of their experiences. The reunited with her…’ book is now with the publishers and should be available The Prime Minister replied and agreed to pass on in the not too distant future. I have little knowledge of their sincere appreciation to the 1st Sea Lord, Admiral what it will say about Wave Knight’s involvement – Sir Mark Stanhope so that he could communicate the especially as the text was submitted before I met them. kind words to those involved in the recovery. So we shall see if it is an accurate representation from Those involved on Wave Knight know exactly what our perspective. If it is not, don’t be too surprised, as I occurred and what they tried to achieve on behalf of the found out that they were kept ‘below decks’ for the vast Chandlers. They should be proud of their actions. majority of their time on the yacht and thus could not It seems a long time since the Wave Knight team of see what we were about. 2009 were involved in the piracy incident concerning The funds from the book will be ploughed into the Paul and Rachel Chandler and their yacht ‘Lynn Rival’. renovation of ‘Lynn Rival’ – a passion which is as As a reminder, they were captured by Somali pirates 50 strong now as it was back in 2009. I sense therefore, miles off the Seychelles toward the end of Oct 2009 and Paul and Rachel Chandler with Lynn Rival at that anyone who decides to purchase the book will be subsequently endured an horrendous journey of captivity Bucklers Hard after hull renovation work and prior helping them in that endeavour. in Somalia. They were released over a year later. to transportation to Dartmouth For those serving onboard at the time – you know Wave Knight was briefly involved in the operation that thanks be passed to the First Sea Lord and to those how proud I was of your breath-taking professionalism to delay or prevent their transfer to a pirated under his command who were involved in the and courage; I now add Paul and Rachel’s thanks to you container ship – the ‘Kota Wajur’. We were operation. I pass these thanks to you now. too. For information, it was later confirmed that the unfortunately unsuccessful – but not for the want of On the request of 1SL / CINC, I met Paul and subsequent press leaks did not emanate from any RFA trying and exposure to risk as many onboard will recall. Rachel Chandler in person back in June. I met them in person onboard. BZ. Many will be unaware of the following night’s activity Paul’s late fathers’ house in Dartmouth, he passed away Capt Chris Clarke 6 - Gunline RFA ORANGELEAF BONDS MISSING DIVER OFF LYME REGIS - WITH TS EASTBOURNE GOLD ROVER TEAMS UP WITH RNLI hilst taking advantage of a show the cadets the galley were their n April, RFA Gold Rover and the diver receiving timely medical Wquieter period as Flag Officer lunch had come from and the fridges Icrew of an RNLI lifeboat were treatment... the missing diver has not Sea Training (FOST) station tanker and freezers onboard. alerted to an incident involving two been located. RFA Orangeleaf was able to welcome Then it was time for the highlight of individuals who had been diving off the “At this stage, it would be wrong to TS Eastbourne onboard for a day at sea the day for many of the cadets – a Blue Turtle boat off the Dorset coast. speculate about the cause of this off Portland during the Easter holidays. Gold Rover in conjunction with the particular incident. The cadets travelled to Portland for their RNLI lifeboat carried out a search for “But this is the second serious diving exciting day at sea, bright and early two divers which went on into the nigh. accident to have occurred off the Dorset ready to embark onboard Orangeleaf. The search was eventually called off at coast already this season and I would After their initial safety briefs and 2100 with one of the two divers being like to take this opportunity to remind all shipboard tour they were ready and all airlifted to hospital after getting into divers to make sure they are well stationed on the bridge deck to watch difficulties off Lyme Regis. prepared, fully trained for the level of the ship sail into Weymouth Bay. The initial alarm was raised at about dive they are about to undertake and With a proportion of the ship’s Winchex, courtesy of the Search and 1730 when one of the divers became ill their equipment is properly maintained.” company having changed over and Rescue Helicopter from Portland. The after a rapid ascent. The man was airlifted A spokesman for the RNLI said: “It gone on leave whilst alongside the cadets standing on the bridge wing to a specialist unit in Poole while a search was a widespread search by at least next task for the cadets was a Whole were suddenly silenced and spellbound began to find the other male diver about eight vessels. Ship Emergency Stations Muster and as they watched the helicopter crew go three miles off Lyme Regis. “Our lifeboat was joined by other Lifeboat Muster. On completion of the through their paces – followed by Andrew Jenkins, coastguard watch vessels including Weymouth RNLI muster the cadets spent an interesting some frantic cheering as the aircraft manager, said: “Although prompt search lifeboat, the Sidmouth rescue boat and morning spilt into three groups crew enjoyed their moment of glory and rescue action has resulted in one the RFA Gold Rover.”

COMMENDED FOR COMMANDER IN CHIEF COMMENDATION his year the Naval Secretary was ceremony for all the recipients. Tpleased to learn that the The citation read, Commander-in-Chief Fleet has awarded “On behalf of Admiral Sir Trevor a CINCFLEET’s Commendation to Soar KCB OBE, I would like to Steward James Britchford for congratulate you on your award outstanding service to the Royal Fleet of a Commander-in-Chief Fleet Auxiliary. Congratulations to James Commendation for outstanding learning some basic first aid, whilst flying abeam to the bridge. from all in the RFA on his achievement. performance in the Royal Fleet exploring the gigantic engine room All too soon it was time to depart James along with two guests was Auxiliary. Only a small number of and learning a little more about the ship, although not before a final invited to the presentation in front of all Commendations are awarded annually replenishment operations. chance to ask questions of the the families and friends at Admiralty and you can take immense satisfaction After a well deserved and very Navigator and the Captain. Indeed House, Northwood on 3 June where in knowing that your outstanding welcome lunch the cadets then threw Captain Worthington took the Admiral Soar held a formal presentation contribution has been recognised. themselves into the afternoon’s opportunity to turn the tables on the activities – literally in the case of poor cadets, asking some questions to see ‘Manoverboard Fred’ who was who had paid the most attention repeatedly thrown overboard by very during the day! The two lucky cadets RFA BENEVOLENT FUND BENEFITS enthusiastic cadets – thankfully it was proudly receiving baseball caps the FROM CALENDAR SALES big thank you to all those who bought a 2011 RFA Calendar, as a result of Athis year’s calendar sales, which totalled 287, the RFA Benevolent Society has benefited to the tune of £300 to go towards supporting a suitable event in the future. Details of next year’s calendar and how to purchase your copy can be found in this edition of Gunline and let’s try and surpass last year’s sales and beat the £300 contribution in 2012.

49TH RFA CHARITY GOLF EVENT

he RFA annual golf tournament Duncan Lamb. In total £1302 was for training purposes to enable the ship had recently received from some Twas again an excellent event at raised for The RFA Association crash boat crew to maintain their Canadian “customers”. Waterlooville Golf Club and well including £240 in gift aid. capability. The PO(Q) and engine The cadets had a wonderful time attended. After an overcast start the I would like to say a big thank you room team also gave the team chance onboard, certainly it was a pleasure to weather improved becoming warm and to our supporters and to those who to learn about Thermal Imaging continue the relationship between sunny with many excellent scores. It ensured the day went with a swing Camera’s and fire fighting equipment RFA Orangeleaf and TS Eastbourne – was evident that the standard of golf including Louise, Elaine, Julie and with a large show of hands from the final words came from the smallest continues to increase! Colin Stokes, Robin and The Club. cadets wanting to try a BA Set on. Not of the group ‘My Mum’s never going The evening dinner was excellent Another successful event with next year to be left out the LSO was able to to believe this!’ and saw the Joe Dines Trophy being the events golden jubilee! presented to Fred Roberts by Capt Roger Robinson Brown Gunline - 7 LIFE AT SEA THROUGH THE EYES OF A FIRST PHASE CADET

s a first phase RFA deck cadet you taking a wide range of amphibious craft. intense period of the programme I was different areas and not forgetting to Ajoin your first ship after almost five During OP Cougar the dock has been able to get out in one of the landing craft maintain a safe navigational watch at all months at Nautical College where a basic used for loading and unloading personnel air cushions and go for a spin. I have times. understanding of navigation, and equipment as well as vehicles both to never been in a hovercraft before and it At the minute the role of the officer of meteorology, cargo and ship construction and from various types of landing craft. was amazing to experience their the watch seems daunting, however being is achieved. The aim of our first phase at For each different craft that enters the capabilities and how they manoeuvre on able to observe and take an active role in sea is to develop our knowledge and gain stern dock different procedures take the water as it is very different to a the process has given me more an increased amount of additional conventional boat. One of the main knowledge along the way. It is a steep advantages of the hovercrafts is that they learning curve but at the same time there do not have to worry about the depth of are a lot of interesting and fun things to water they are in and can land troops right get involved in during our time in the up on to the beach unlike the raiding craft ship. which have to be wary of not running the Not long in to my time onboard RFA boat aground. The speed that each of the Cardigan Bay, the ship began to prepare landing craft can achieve and their to take on her role as amphibious support manoeuvrability is what makes them Sea King Mk 4 on deck preparing to during OP Cougar based in the The Dock fully flooded and crew quite spectacular to watch on the water launch having just loaded 11 Royal Mediterranean. The preparation period preparing to lower the stern door conducting their amphibious assault Marines was a busy time for all onboard RFA place, for example the stern door needs to serials. Cardigan Bay and as a cadet it gave me a be lowered to different levels depending It is not very often that you get to see confidence that in the future when I am great opportunity to see how much on the type of vessel and its draught. I Royal Navy helicopters in action qualified I will be able to successfully planning and organisation has to go in to was able to get involved in lowering and transporting troops, equipment and stores undertake the challenge. raising the stern door for vessels entering As I mentioned before it was quite a and leaving the dock as well as getting daunting prospect going from being on a involved in securing them in the dock if ship which has an average crew of eighty they stayed for any prolonged period of personnel to having over four hundred time. There are three ships left in the RFA and fifty personnel onboard. However, with this capability and I am glad that I my initial worries were unfounded and have had the chance to experience the the wide range or ranks and rates from a ship working at its full operational variety of specialisations, has given me the preparation for a deployment. During capability so early in my career. A LCVP arriving in the dock to take the opportunity to learn skills from the preparation phase I was able to get OP Cougar comprised of a busy away members of 40Cdo to assault people who I would not usually get a involved in everything from craning programme comprising amphibious “red beach” chance to work alongside or integrate boats on to the deck, to loading the ship drills, flying serials and other ship but during OP Cougar RFA Cardigan Bay with. Everyone has had experiences that with vehicles, loading ammunition and has been used as a landing platform on have taught them something and by winching a Mexeflote (machinery numerous occasions both during the day working with such a vast range of people propelled floating platform) on to the side and at night. I have been lucky enough to and by talking to them I have been able to of the ship. The final stage was to embark witness the flying serials from the bridge learn how and why they complete tasks in the military force that for the duration of as well as see how the deck crews work a certain way. Learning from a wide OP Cougar was to be part of the ship. when they have an aircraft landing and range of people means that I will be able Having just got used to a relatively small taking off. The most important factor is to take the best from everyone and can crew onboard, it was quite a daunting constant communication between the use their ideas and experiences to prospect to suddenly have over three bridge, the flight deck, the helicopter develop a way of working which best hundred additional personnel onboard Part offload of the Cargo by MexiFlote. controller and the aircraft. Without suits me. and what a sight it was to see that amount There is now room to move for the first effective communication the safety of the OP Cougar was based in the of people arrive on the jetty. time in weeks aircraft could be jeopardized. It has been Mediterranean so immediately it fulfilled RFA Cardigan Bay is specially evolutions. Despite this incredibly busy an eye opener to see how hard the officer my desire to travel with the RFA, designed for amphibious support and her period there has still been the occasional of the watch has to work to continuously allowing me to spend time in Gibraltar main features allowing this capability is moment which has enabled me to get monitor all the environmental factors that for some well earned time ashore. I look her floodable stern dock and her vast involved in a slightly less intense side of could affect the flight safety as well as forward to being able to visit more vehicle deck. The dock is capable of the exercises and drills. During a less constantly communicating with the countries throughout my RFA career. RFA COM UPDATE - AUGUST 2011 he RFA’s Community Website not intended to replace or duplicate the an unclassified nature can be published Crew Lists (updated monthly) Twww.rfacom.mod.uk is for RFA Deployment News that units currently on the pages. The site is moderated, and Frequently Asked Questions Personnel, families and friends and publish on their official pages of the strictly forbids the inclusion of Emergency Contact Details offers a wide range of information on a Royal Fleet Auxiliary website information such as forthcoming port BFPO and UIN numbers wide range of topics covering RFA www.rfa.mod.uk This is aimed at a visits and other aspects of a ships’ Liberty Boat routines matters. much wider audience, including the programme. Appointers contact details Connecting and supporting the RFA general public, potential recruits and The current topics being discussed MOD Forms 305 and 306 Community worldwide every day, this journalists. on the website include: ‘Where to save Promotion Notices internet based Community Support The RFA Community website has 10 % within the RFA’, ‘The RFA 18 Pay, Policy and Conditions Bulletins facility is for all of us in the Royal Fleet 1787 registered users up to and Review Team’, ‘Queen Diamond Gunline and Cascade Briefs Auxiliary Community. If you are, or including August 2011. Jubilee Medal’, ‘VERS deadline’ and More information and views are were, a member of the RFA, a family The member’s area is only open to ‘Breaking News’. appearing all the time, and the service is member or friend, this site may be of personnel and their families who have The following information is rapidly expanding. interest to you. registered to use this facility. This is a available to those who have registered Register for an account today and It should be noted that this service is protected area and only information of for an account: keep up to date! 8 - Gunline THE RFA MEMORIAL CAMPAIGN: MOUNTS BAY STRENGTHENS TIES TO REMEMBER THE PAST WITH AFFILIATED LIVERY COMPANIES AND LOOK TO THE FUTURE ounts Bay recently hosted the first would be making an annual presentation Mmeeting of the three Livery to a member of the service in recognition Companies who hold affiliations with of an individual’s commitment. The e are all aware of the RFA’s the National Arboretum and build an RFA ships. The Worshipful Company of presentation comprises of a medal and a contribution to global maritime RFA memorial. The cost is expected to W Fuellers, affiliated to Wave Knight and rose bowl, the rose bowl will be retained security and humanitarian support that be of the order of Thirty Thousand Wave Ruler; the Honourable Company by the recipient for a year. This year’s we have delivered for our country for Pounds, and if we all make a donation of Master Mariners affiliated to award goes to CPO(D) Peter Quirk. over a hundred years. The RFA has been we can build a lasting memorial to the Cardigan Bay and Largs Bay, until 14 Captain Rob Dorey, the recently in the thick of things, supporting and memory of those RFA seafarers who October when she departs the service appointed DACOS AFSUP, delivered an delivering in conflicts, environmental have made the ultimate sacrifice. The and the Worshipful Company of Carmen overview on current ship’s tasking and disasters, peacekeeping and memorial would also be a tribute to our affiliated to Fort Victoria. The intention the wider effect on defence and Captain humanitarian relief. Regrettably, when heritage, reflecting on our past and is to hold an annual reunion and details David Buck outlined Mounts Bay’s undertaking this work we have suffered looking to the future. will be announced about future events as capabilities and deliverables in support casualties and loss of life. The tasks Please send a cheque for Ten Pounds details are confirmed. of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and undertaken in the past and in the future, or more to the RFA Association The visit by the Livery Companies to host nations. by their very nature carry varying memorial Fund, PO Box 52, Barnard Mounts Bay was as an opportunity to Two of the affiliated ships were degrees of risk. Castle, County Durham DL12 2 BA. Or strengthen the links with the RFA and represented by their commanding officers We have a unique opportunity to log onto: www.rfa-association.org and build on raising the awareness of the and Captains David Buck and Shaun remember and contribute to the past and make a donation through the Virgin unique capabilities of the service and Jones Commanding Officers of Mounts look to the future by donating Ten money giving page. our work to a wide range of professional Bay and Fort Victoria respectively were Pounds towards the RFA Memorial Thank you organisations. present to talk about the ship’s previous Fund. Our target is to purchase a plot at Bill Walworth A total of 46 guests embarked the ship activities and to answer questions from from the three companies and the visit members of the audience. commenced with a buffet lunch, which On completion of the presentations was served on the bridge. On completion, the guests were divided into three groups RFFAA MEMORIAL CAMPPAAIGN the guests were invited to the officer’s and taken on tours of the ship. Despite National Arboretum lounge and Cdre Bill Walworth there being numerous seafarers amongst welcomed everybody to the ship and by the group, it was evident that many of TO REMEMBER THE PPAAST AND LOOK TO THE FUTURE way of reply the Chairman of the those on the tour were intrigued and Worshipful Company of Fuellers thanked often surprised at the ships’ versatility. the Commodore and demonstrated the We look forward to developing the strength of the affiliation with the RFA by bond between the Livery Companies announcing that through Husband’s and are keen to receive the thoughts and Shipyard in Marchwood and the yard’s ideas of their members to consider for past association with the service they future events. WAVE RULER VISITS THE PEOPLE OF ANGUILLA ave Ruler and her Commanding commitment to the region. WOfficer, Captain Norris hosted The role includes providing regional VIPs at an official reception on July 1 in support in the event of natural disasters Anguilla. The ship’s company such as hurricanes. With an extensive participated in a disaster relief training range of disaster relief stores, Wave exercise and provide guided tours of the Ruler is capable of providing food, ship for local school children. water and shelter where required. Captain Norris said: “We are Additionally, the ship and her crew can Can you make a donation to the RFA Memorial to be built at delighted to be in Anguilla. Our visit provide medical and humanitarian aid, the National Memorial Arboretum, Alrreewas, Staffffordshire to confirms the UK’s close relationship with together with technical assistance honour the men and women of the RFFAA Servrvice? Anguilla. Wave Ruler is in the region to utilising their training, skills, knowledge support UK Overseas Territories, provide and experience. All donations no matttter how large or small will be gratefully regional support in the event of natural While at sea working in support of received. A donation of £10 or more will assist in the build disasters and contribute to law local defence and police forces, from a and maintenance of the Memorial. enforcement. The ship’s company looks number of Caribbean nations, together forward to the visit and the opportunity to with the US Coast Guard, the ship experience Anguilla.” conducts marine patrols. ILI Making a donation is easyy,, log on to: X AR U A Y

T A S E S E O Wave Ruler has been stationed in the The Royal Navy will continue to

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O O O O wwwwwwww..RFFAA-ASSOCIAATTION.ORG O Y Y Y Y Y Y

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O O O O O Caribbean for over a year. It was provide a permanent presence in the

R R R R R R R R R previously deployed in the Far East, Caribbean, able to respond to the full fleetgraphicscentre 11/129 Persian Gulf and as an Atlantic Patrol range of foreseeable contingencies. In Task vessel in the South Atlantic, the event of a humanitarian disaster, it supporting the Falkland Islands as well will deliver initial military assistance. MAILING LIST as working in territorial waters around During 2011 this will be provided by a the UK. Royal Fleet Auxiliary ship enhanced ith GUNLINE now available in electronic format on the RFA page on the A significant part of the Royal with a naval party and helicopter during Wwww.royalnavy.mod.uk website and the RFA Community website Navy’s presence is patrolling the North the hurricane season which runs from www.rncom.mod.uk there is now the opportunity to reduce the amount of Atlantic and Caribbean. RFA Wave June 1 until November 30. This will unwanted mail. If you would like to read GUNLINE on line and stop receiving it Ruler’s primary role is to provide provide a broadly comparable capability support to the UK Overseas Territories to previous years, albeit with one ship in the post please e.mail me at [email protected] and strengthen the UK Government’s rather than two. Gunline - 9

RFA FORT ROSALIE RFA WAVE RULER

RFA BLACK ROVER

RFA RFA WAVE KNIGHT LYME BAY RFA FORT VICTORIA RFA DILIGENCE

RFA GOLD ROVER

WAVE KNIGHT Deployed as the Arabian Gulf Ready Tanker (AGRT).

WAVE RULER Conducting duties as ATP(N) in support of allied nations and UK dependant territories in the Caribbean.

GOLD ROVER ATP(S) tanker duties currently escorting fleet assets in the operational theatre.

BLACK ROVER Returning to the UK after ATP(S) duties,

ORANGELEAF FOST Tanker duties in support of operational training.

FORT VICTORIA Undergoing a period of maintenance in Dubai.

FORT AUSTIN Alongside in Birkenhead prior to commencing refit.

FORT ROSALIE RFA FORT AUSTIN In Valetta, Malta undergoing a period of maintenance.

CARDIGAN BAY Undergoing a refit in Falmouth.

MOUNTS BAY Operating in the south coast exercise areas in support of naval assets.

LYME BAY At sea in support of naval assets east of Suez.

ARGUS In UK territorial waters conducting continuation training. RFA RFA ARGUS CARDIGAN BAY RFA ORANGELEAF DILIGENCE RFA MOUNTS BAY In Bahrain continuing in support of coalition assets.

Provided courtesy of The U.K. Hydrographic Office 10 - Gunline HOLLYWOOD COMES TO ARGUS

s you may or may not know, ARGUS has recently deck personnel behaving as if a Merlin was landing in facilitate all of the cameras and sound equipment, to Abeen the setting for a major upcoming Paramount order to make it more realistic when they add them in pallets full of empty suitcases to be used as props for Pictures movie starring Brad Pitt. later. the refugees, to fake barrels of oil for the background The ‘filmies’ as the ship’s crew have dubbed the Once all of the aircraft sequences were shot, the scenes. We loaded some twenty to thirty containers film crew spent an intense 12 days of filming onboard. crew moved to the starboard pilot door to film the worth of gear between Friday afternoon and Saturday When I say intense, I mean intense. The first calls for ‘body bag’ scene. It’s exactly as it sounds, cameramen night. The Hangars were absolutely full and the set the extras and crew was at 0430 most mornings and on the ship and an airborne camera helo filmed as body dressers spent the whole day on Saturday and Sunday arrival onboard normally between 0600 and 0700 for bags with dummies in them were dropped from the building the sets and getting things in place for filming filming to commence between 0730 and 0830. Despite ship. The bags all had a hole cut in the bottom and a to begin in earnest on the Monday. the long days which were required by certain members piece of rope tied around the ankle of the dummy to One of the biggest disruptions to the ship’s routine of the ship’s company, all aboard appeared to was the requirement to use both the galley and have had a great time taking part in what must the crew cafeteria for filming. This resulted in be one of the most unusual taskings five days of the galley being shut down during undertaken by an RFA to date. which, the ship’s company were catered for by It all began a little over six weeks ago with the film company caterers. After the first day what was thought to be a wind up pipe by the there were few complaints due to both the quality CO; ‘the ship is to be used as a location for an and quantity of food provided, it was an upcoming Paramount Pictures movie starring American catering company after all. Eating Brad Pitt!’ But sure enough, on arrival to whilst rubbing shoulders with various actors, Gibraltar post OP HUNT, there were three movers and shakers from Hollywood also took gents from the film company waiting to scout the sting out of the walk to the catering tent! around the ship for potential locations. “So what did we do with the Galley staff whilst A few days later, we got the news that the the galley was out of action?” I hear you ask. Well Director was very impressed and definitely we put them to good use as extras for the Galley wanted to utilise ARGUS. More meetings scene! If you watch the movie when it comes out, were set up and as the finer details of what you may recognise a few individuals. The galley would be required began to emerge, we very staff were not the only extras used; the flight deck quickly realised that the scale of the operation 2/O(X) Steve McMenemy the Enemy; Mr Brad Pitt; and Captain Paul crew were used in scenes with the helicopters, would be beyond initial expectations. In the Kehoe even thought they are dressed as American flight usual RFA way, we met the task head on and deck crew, I’m sure a few faces will be recognised! quickly came up with a deliverable plan. enable recovery, however, the last one was so water Without doubt though, the stars from ARGUS, who The film is based on the book, World War Z by Max logged that the extra weight caused the ankle to snap were used in almost every scene filmed onboard were: Brookes. It is set in the near future where a virus has off- the first we knew of it on the bridge was one of the 2/O(C) Gary Barrowcliffe; PO(LOGS) Joe Dwyer; broken out which kills people and causes their bodies watch keepers stating, “severed foot off the starboard Ass/Ck Cameron Simpson; and Stwd Eric Bourne; all to re-animate. The story follows a UN representative bow!” On completion of the body bag scene, the last of chosen for their particular American marine look. They travelling the world to find out how various countries the light was used to capture more background horizon will be seen in background shots as both Navy Seals are managing the effects and ultimately to find a shots whilst we made our way to Falmouth. and US Marines in no less than six of the scenes! solution. The last of mankind has taken to sea in a huge On the pilotage into Falmouth the next day, we were The ship itself did not escape the transforming fleet of ships to flee from the zombies and that is where greeted by the sight of the SD Salmoor, converted into effects of Hollywood. Initially, the plan was to CGI out ARGUS makes her filming debut! a Russian refugee ship and with none other then Mr all of the accommodation and turn ARGUS into USS The first stage of filming began when we embarked Brad Pitt watching our arrival from the bridge wing. HARRY S TRUMAN. However, the film makers ended the ‘Second Unit’ consisting of 11 men at Portland. The Salmoor was sailing to film some shots at sea for a up using scenes of extras pouring down the external This team go around with their own director, stairwells and decided that the ship would cameraman etc and film the various ancillary become a LPH named USS MADISON. This scenes and background footage to be edited involved stencilling a new , 19, into the film later or layered onto the main onto the ship’s funnel as well as adding all the action using CGI graphics. little ‘Americanisms’ to the superstructure. The As we sailed, we were joined by a fleet of quote of the week though, came from the Set four small catamarans which were being used Director, who had an extra radome craned onto as markers for the cameras so that warships the ship to make it ‘look more shippy’!! could be added in with CGI at a later stage. I With transformations of both ship and crew took great pleasure in calling for the ‘Zombie complete, sets dressed, extras in place and Fleet’ to close up over VHF! Our ‘Fleet’ in principle actors onboard, minus Brad who would place, we sailed out beyond Portland Bill and not arrive until required midweek, the filming headed for clear water in order to allow the commenced. The first scene was the revised cameras to capture some unbroken horizon ‘body bag’ scene. No longer taking place at the shots from the deck. pilot door, it was now to be dropped from By mid-afternoon, we were joined by the between the lifeboats on the starboard side. film company’s Dauphin, which had been re- Ass Ck Cameron Simpson, PO(LOGS) Joe Dwyer, Actor David Andrews There was hush amongst the crew and cast; the painted to look like a US military helo and the (total legend of a guy- incredibly funny!!), 2/O(C) Gary Barrowcliffe, call ‘Rolling!’ rang out, then, camera helo. Unfortunately, a combination of Stwd Eric Bourne ‘Standby…and…ACTION!’ And with that, serviceability and weather conditions at filming had begun. Culdrose prevented the 820 NAS Merlins from joining day whilst we in earnest got ARGUS ready for filming At this point it is worth noting who the major actors us so they will be added via CGI during editing! The in onboard. are. Firstly there is, of course, Brad Pitt. The leading lady helos were flown by two of Hollywood’s best stunt After mooring and getting rid of the Second Unit, is Mireille Enos of CSI: Miami and The Killing fame. pilots and some of the manoeuvres were simply the real work began. The next two days were spent Matthew Fox, best known as Jack in the series, Lost; breathtaking to watch. They filmed various sequences loading the film crew gear and dressing the various Casualty’s Elyes Gabel, better known as Dr Guppy of the Dauphin lifting and landing and in between sets. This ranged from scaffolding and rigs for the Sandhu; David Andrews, probably best known for JAG shots, they filmed our deck crew dressed as US flight lighting of the hangars, to major electric gear to and Terminator 3; and John Gordon Sinclair from the Gunline - 11

Scottish classic, Gregory’s Girl were also onboard. There were also a few notable names amongst the ROYALROYAL FLEETFLEET AUXILIARYAUXILIARY COMMUNITYCOMMUNITY WEBSITEWEBSITE film crew themselves with the double Oscar winning For , their and Director, Marc Forster of James Bond: Quantum of For ServingServing MembersMembers, their FamilyFamily and FriendsFriends Solace, Monsters Ball, The Kite Runner at the helm and Bob Richardson, Director of Photography, again double Oscar winner known for Platoon, The Aviator, JFK, Kill INFORMATION  ADVICE Bill, and many more. Amongst the other talent were the  COMMUNICATION people responsible for the Harry Potter Series, Gladiator, Avatar, Titanic and many more blockbusters. The best thing was that not a single one amongst them carried any airs or graces and a good rapport quickly built up between ship’s staff and film crew. www.rfacom.mod.uk The day finally came when Brad Pitt appeared onboard and started filming. The bizarre thing was that once he’d walked by a few times, everyone became A SUCCESSFUL VISIT TO KINGSTON JAMAICA very relaxed about it and he was just another actor ave Ruler continued her busy programme of walking back and forth. Regrettably, due to his Wregional engagement in company with HMS schedule we were unable to arrange a whole ship photo York when they both made a successful visit to with Brad. He did meet with Captain Paul Kehoe in Kingston, Jamaica. The visit began with local Jamaican passing to wish him a happy retirement what a task to television and radio stations undertaking a tour of HMS end your career with! The CO, in return, presented Mr York where crew members were interviewed together Pitt with a ship’s crest to hang in his production with the Public Relations Officer from both ships and company’s office as a reminder of his time in the I/C of the dedicated Humanitarian Aid and Disaster ARGUS. Relief Team onboard Wave Ruler, Lt Cdr Atkinson. As midday on Friday approached, the de-riggers Whilst here, Captain Norris and the Commanding were poised and waiting until finally the call rang out, Officer of HMS York, Commander Simon Staley gave HMS YORK and RFA WAVE RULER football teams in two brief yet comprehensive live television interviews. action The first interview took place at TV Jamaica the Meanwhile a football competition organised by the number one and oldest television station on the island Foreign and Commonwealth Office enabled teams with 80% of the viewing population. They appeared on from Wave Ruler and HMS York to test their skills Smile Jamaica a morning programme hosted by Neville against each other and the Jamaican Defence Force. and Simon, two sports presenters. The games concluded in victory to the Jamaican The second television interview took place on Live Defence Force and Wave Ruler beating HMS York 7-3. 7 at CVM the second largest station in Jamaica. Initial On departing Jamaica a disaster relief brief and lunch reports from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office were held onboard Wave Ruler with the Chief of reported that the interviews were well received by the Defence Staff and Major General Anderson. This was people of Jamaica. well received and provided an opportunity for them to During the visit Wave Ruler hosted 40 personnel experience a replenishment at sea. from the Jamaican Defence Force and 20 cadets from In all it proved a very successful visit delivering a From left to right, Stwd Eric Bourne, PO(LOGS) Joe the Caribbean Maritime Institute. Both visits proved to busy; wide reaching regional engagement event that Dwyer, 2/O(C) Gary Barrowcliffe, and Ass/Ck be informative with all enjoying Wave Ruler’s continues to strengthen the Royal Navy’s and Royal Cameron Simpson hospitality. Fleet Auxiliary’s relationship with Jamaica. “That’s a wrap!” The extras poured off the ship, the actors were whisked away and the crew weren’t far Seafarer Support do the hard work for you! behind which left the ship and the de-rigging crews to get on with the offloading. The ship’s company made a Sally, our Welfare Officer, is on hand to commendable effort, working through the weekend to answer your queries, so why not give her a have the ship back in working order and ready to call on: 0800 121 4765 or visit: commence AMP on the Monday morning. www.seafarersupport.org to see how And now the film crew are gone, the early morning Seafarer Support can help you. madness is over and the ship feels like an empty house. As anyone who has been onboard in the lead up to and 0800 121 4765 during filming will tell you, nothing that FOST, AMP, www.seafarersupport.org Sudoku by Chris White or even Navy Days has thrown at us in the past will Answers on page 16 Seafarer Support, a confidential come close to the chaos that is the film industry. Freephone service (operated by the So in finest Hollywood tradition, I’d like to thank 1 8 Merchant Navy Welfare Board,) has God, the little people, etc etc…But in all seriousness, successfully assisted over 600 Seafarers special recognition has to be given to our ‘Zombie 31 2 or their families with welfare enquiries, Watch’ which were supplementing duty watch since its launch in 2009. 586173 throughout to look after the film crew. Also the Engineering Department for bringing the flight deck The referral service, much like directory 5 2 4 lift back online ahead of schedule and generally being enquiries, puts callers in touch available to move the lift as required and damped with organisation(s) that machinery noise for the sound people. And lastly the can provide specialist Bosun and his men for being available at all sorts of support and guidance. 24 5 random times to forklift this or crane that! With over 100 maritime 6 5 4 7 3 1 The film company have now moved north to charities offering descend on Glasgow and Grangemouth and later on to assistance, knowing 391 Aldershot as filming continues into the New Year. The where to start can be film, WW Z is currently due in a cinema near you in challenging, so let 7 2 December 2012. 12 - Gunline RFA ASSOCIATION

Chairman's Dit

Lots to talk about in this issue, the that has not seen the light of day since Nelson line if you like, but it is where we did most of AGM, the next AGM,the RFA Memorial, was a lad...although I don’t know). our business when we were at sea. On the 19th the recent Reunion, the next Reunion and The recent Reunion, held at the Crowne August I will be meeting the Chairman of the CONTACT last, but by no means least, the way forward Plaza Nottingham, is highlighted elsewhere in RNA to discuss the possibilities. INFORMATION with the Association. this issue, with some of the photographs. The This is not a merger with or takeover by the The last AGM in Nottingham just before the next Reunion will be hosted by the Solent RNA but an exercise in co-location in order to RFA ASSOCIATION Reunion saw some changes to the Board of Branch on Saturday 19th May 2012 and held at reduce overheads and make the archive more Headquarters Trustees. Brian Waters and David Bass both the De-Vere Grand Harbour Hotel accessible. 01434 220000 E-mail: stood down having completed their Southampton, have a look at their website- I hear from my ‘Moles in the Madhouse’ (I [email protected] constitutionally allotted period, Brian is http://www.devere.co.uk/our-locations/grand- will get rocks for that) that Gunline is to revert however continuing as Chairman of the Solent harbour.html. It does look ‘dead posh’ (exclam). to 3 issues per year; bit of a bummer but that is CHAIRMAN Pat Thompson Branch. On behalf of the Association, I offer Rumour has it that entertainment will include a all they are funded for. So this issue, which 01833 640045 our thanks for all their efforts during their performance by the entire cast of the latest West would have been the ‘Summer 2011’ will now 07879 254168 period of Trusteeship. I am hoping that some End smash hit ‘Das Boot, the Musical’ singing be the ‘Summer/Autumn’ edition. Skype Captain.Pat new blood will be forthcoming very soon to a selection of their greatest hit...’Underneath the From a purely selfish point of view and E-mail: [email protected] replace them on the Board. Oceans’ and ‘I’ve got that sinking feeling’. given my need to fill two pages each quarter The line up of trustees now stands at :- More details in the next Gunline and of course this leads me to my usual ‘Cri de Coeur’ (That’s ADMIN Pat Thompson Chairman, on our website. your actual French doncha know, that last 01434 220000 E-mail: [email protected] Alan Roach (Northern Ireland), The way forward. I have made it very clear wasn’t), so do have a look in the loft, the Mike Day (), that I intend to stand down next year (2012) in shoebox under the bed, the suitcase in the MEMBERSHIP Richard Fernley (London) both my 2009 and 2010 Chairman’s Annual garage unpacked since you retired, or even the Dawn Reay 01434 220000 George Mason (S&N) Report, and as a consequence I will not offer one in the back bedroom under the bed that 07522 551628 Frank Andrews (North West) myself for re-election at the next AGM. So the never made it to loft, you know the one, the one E-mail:[email protected] Pam Axworthy (Midlands) search for my relief is on. The the missus continually drips about....’What it Chris Locke (Plymouth) Chairman/lady.ship is open to all members of we have visitors, if you don’t sort that out today TREASURER Vacant The RFA Memorial Fund continues to grow the Association. The procedure involves short I’m going to my mothers’ etc etc. Perhaps I albeit very slowly, at the time of writing it listing by the Board of Trustees and then should wind my neck in here as I think I might stands at £4863 which is not as much as we election (if there is more than one candidate) or be getting into seriously shallow water (2 would have hoped. There are a couple of endorsement (if not) at the AGM by the metres (6 feet, nay a fathom in real money...(If SECRETARY & FINANCIAL sponsorship deals in the offing but more about membership. If you reckon you are up for this the good lord had wanted us to be metric he SECRETARY those when the deals are struck and we do have demanding and rewarding job now is the time would only have had 10 apostles)) under the Under consideration a few substantial promises from members. The to put yourself forward. keel at all time whilst underway (BR875 Vol 3 design has been agreed and the masons have put Other news from HQ. It has been clear for Part 1 Chapter 8 Page 8 refers)). Incidentally PLYMOUTH BRANCH their work in hand. By late summer we hope to some while that whilst Bellingham has served when I retired I took medical advice with a view John Halford 01752 659942 have a life-sized mock-up on site. This will us very well as an Association since our to having BR875 surgically removed but was E-mail: formation years, it is time that we looked for told that the operation was not available on the [email protected] alternative accommodation for the HQ and also NHS and I should try Prozac. Again I the archive. To this end I have had discussions approached the NHS and was told that the dose SOLENT BRANCH Brian Waters with the Trustees on the options open to us. rates necessary to totally obliterate all 01722 320562 Obviously remaining at Bellingham is one references to BR875 would be fatal. So come E-mail : option. A second is the concept of a Virtual on Chaps, and of course, Chapesses, you must [email protected] Office with the Archive deposited with a have a tale to tell, as ever one that your Granny LONDON BRANCH University perhaps. The third option is to would smile over as she sips her cup of tea and Lt Cdr James Wyatt relocate the whole organisation to new premises well dunked Bourbon Cream and contemplates Richard Fernley (Vice Chairman) that are more accessible to the membership as a a slice of her special Victoria Sponge. So here’s 07778 780872 whole. The Semaphore Tower Building in the deal, I will send you a ‘Bic’ (Please specify E-mail Portsmouth Dockyard is, in my opinion, a left or right handed) biro and a pad of Basildon [email protected] coincide with a site visit from RFA, RFAA and suitable candidate as it is co-located with, but Bond if you get in touch and threaten me with a SCOTTISH & NEWCASTLE the Memorial Arboretum (NMA) to confirm the totally independent of, the Royal Naval suitable dit, somewhere around 250-500 BRANCH entire project meets all the criteria. The target Association. It is at the other end of the distance words(ish), for publication preferably with John Roddis date for completion and dedication of the photos. (This epistle is running at 1154 words) 01786 821379 E-mail: Memorial is September 2012...sooner than you (No it isn’t, it’s 1183 so far!! - Malcolm) so it is [email protected] might think. Please have a long hard look in not as onerous as you might think. your piggy bank and see if you can help the Enough for now or I will have Malcolm MIDLANDS BRANCH John Sail appeal as we have a very long way to go yet and (Dawn’s dad), our tame typesetter, snapping 01476 594034 all contributions will gratefully received around my ankles and muttering about quarts [email protected] (except perhaps the ancient shrapnel so into pint pots yet again. NORTHWEST tarnished you cannot identify the country of Frank Andrews origin lurking at the bottom of your piggybank OBITUARIES 01722 685427 E-mail: [email protected] Since the last edition of Gunline the following members and ex-RFA non Office Address: members have sadly "Crossed the Bar" 3-4 Station House STOP PRESS SITUATION VACANT Bellingham Tom Dunn Naval Architect 4th January aged 68 Hexham NE48 2DG National Chairman. Captain(E) James (Joe) Davis I am delighted to announce the receipt 27th Feb 2011 aged 74 Mailing Address I will be standing down at the next AGM PO Box 52 of a very generous donation of £5000 Signalman TE Wright 8th April 2011 aged 80 Barnard Castle DL12 2BA and we are looking for someone to take from the Royal Navy Royal Marines my place. CPO (Plumber) Arthur Brewster Web Sites: Charity and a further very generous Trustee. 8th May 2011 aged 78 www.rfa-association.org donation of £250 from the Worshipfull We are always looking for new blood on Vicky Barton PA 25th June 2011 aged 86 Plymouth Branch Company of Fuellers. These donations the Board of TrusteesBoth National Captain(E) Srikrishna (Kris) Awati www.rfaaplymouth.org Chairman and Trustee positions are open 13th July 2011 aged 85 bring the fund up to £10,113. Further Solent Branch to all paid up members of the Association. James Wilson In Pensioner Aged 85 www. donations are still needed and having If you feel you have something to offer First Officer Peter Homan freewebs.com/rfaasolentbranch/ made a donation already is not a bar please get in touch with me at: 10th August 2011 aged 75 London Branch to making another one. [email protected] PO Deck(DSK) Frank Armiger www.rfaa-london.org.uk/ or at home on 01833 640045 21 August 2011 aged 73 Gunline - 13 FOR SERVICE, SEAFARERS AND FAMILIES REG CHARITY NO. 1093950. PATRON: HRH THE EARL OF WESSEX, KG KCVO ADC REGISTERED IN SCOTLAND No. SC039054

REUNION AT NOTTINGHAM Scottish & Newcastle Branch

This year’s Reunion was held at the The raffle was drawn by the Sea Cadets For our first meeting of 2011 and in Crowne Plaza Hotel, Nottingham hosted by and the winners were as follows:- almost sub-Tropical conditions, on 10th the Midlands Branch. Despite a lower than Tickets for Southampton Boat Show– April over thirty members enjoyed a splendid usual turnout the attendees had a terrific Gil Forth (S&N) Sunday lunch at the Riverdale Hall Hotel at evening with the usual pre, inter and post Tickets for Royal Ascot– Bellingham, Northumberland. prandial lantern swinging. Alex Redpath (Plymouth) Tickets for the Eden Project– Rev Peter McCarthy (S&N) Hotel Vouchers (£200)– Alasdhair Silcock (S&N) The Nottingham Book– Roxburghe Hotel for lunch. Set in idyllic John Wilkins (Solent) surroundings of the Duke of Roxburghe’s Robin Hood's Bow and Arrow– Estate, near Kelso, the hotel was formerly the David Pevier (London) home of the Duke’s Eldest Son, the present Tickets to Goodwood Revival– Duke being its last family occupant. Ian Thompson (North West) Tastefully adapted, it retains its Ducal Teatowels– Again we were given the Hotel’s splendour and is well worth a visit. Included Nottingham Sea Cadets from RS Orion Alison Thomas (North West) conservatory overlooking a picturesque organised coats, sold raffle tickets and Hamper– stretch of the River Tyne, which passes entertained us with a demonstration of Tony Holmes (Midlands) through spectacular countryside on its way to Hornpipe Dancing and Indian Club becoming the River we all know from past Swinging. Refit visits!

with the cost of lunch are a complimentary visit to Floors Castle and use of the Garden Games at the hotel. Other activities, such as The following morning there was a coach fishing, golf, mountain bikes to hot air trip to the National Memorial Arboretum at ballooning (POA!) are available. If this The Master (or should it be Mistress) of Alrewas to view the site for the RFA National Encouraged by the weather forecast a few tempts you to join us let me know at Ceremonies was Alison Thomas, a first for Memorial and also the RFA Sir Percivale made it an excuse to stay over the weekend [email protected] or on 01786- both her and us and what a splendid job she Anchor that would be dedicated in the to explore the Northumberland National Park 821379. Details will be sent to members on did too, it can’t be easy keeping a load of Merchant Nave Convoy Area, there are some and all it has to offer. our mailing list in June. lantern swinging retired RFAs in tow pictures of the dedication ceremony Our next planned event will be on Sunday Best wishes to all. (exclam). elsewhere on our pages. 14th August when we return to The John Roddis

This Memorial was consecrated on the 8th June 2011 in the Merchant Navy Convoy RFA ‘Sir Percivale's Anchor’ Memorial Wood at the National Memorial Arboretum not far where the RFA National Memorial will be built. During the short ceremony two plaques were unveiled by Captain Tony Pitt and Captain Phil Roberts and the date of the consecration maked the date on which RFA Sir Percivale's sister ships, Sir Galahad and Sir Tristram were hit at Bluf Cove during the Falklands Conflict.The Merchant Navy Wood consists of 2535 Oak Trees representing the 2535 Merchant Ships sunk during the Second World War.

Further memories of the War Tankers -‘RFA War Sudra’ 1945

After leaving the RFA War Brahmin and with one of his books that he had published It was a very cold and bleak area but we amused ourselvesby taking one of the lifeboats warmer climates, I was posted to the RFA and signed as attached. The War Sudra was ashore and doing a bit of mountain climbing, we also laid lobster pots out, which our Chippy War Sudra in Scapa Flow as Third Officer. later transferred to the Faeroe Islands to be had made, so enjoyed many a supper of fresh lobsters. Unfortunately one day I developed tooth When I joined, she was at anchored in the stationed in a fiord near to the town of ache and had to go sound close to the remains of the scuttled Thorshaven, here we were to refuel escort ashore for treatment at German Navy from the 1914 war. A few days ships from Atlantic and Artic convoys that an army camp and was after joining her, VE day was declared and were still operating. treated by the dentist our Captain, Captain C.H. Noel presented me using a pedal operated drill. Later we were transferred to Rosyth for oiling duties and where I was given a weeks leave. After the leave I was posted to the RFA Airsprite as Second Officer, which is another, and last, story of my time in the RFA. Ian Hawkes Ian [L] & Second Officer Collecting pots 14 - Gunline

The Marine Society: a one-stop shop for personal and professional development No organization has more experience of delivering learning at sea.

he Marine Society provides a range of event in London attended by Gunline Society added benefits, which cannot be Twell-managed services exclusively to demonstrated how seafarers and shore- applied retrospectively. seafarers to enhance learning and well based maritime professionals could get a being, and to facilitate professional degree in short order which did not cost Those benefits include: development. the earth and allowed academic credit for • possible scholarship to reduce further The London-based charity has professional qualifications, skills and very competitively priced tuition costs encouraged, enabled and educated many competencies and which could be • an interest free loan for remainder of generations of RFA personnel and is a completed without the need to even step the cost of tuition recommended first point of contact for all ashore. • Marine Society can enrol seafarers on matters relating to personal and The event was hosted by the Marine the programme thereby reducing the professional progression. Society in association with the Institute for administrative burden The Society works with a range of Work Based Learning (IWBL) at • provision of any reading materials or mainstream education and training Middlesex University. study resources providers to deliver opportunities for The focus was a re-launch of the • MS acts as honest broker between the personal and professional development partnership between the world’s most learner and the IWBL, interceding in that are seafarer-friendly and focused on experienced seafarers’ charity and the any queries and sorting any glitches. the needs of the individual in the context IWBL and to showcase the possibilities of of the maritime sector. the work-based learning route that has Professor Jonathan Garnett, Dean at It caters for all levels of learning, and already bestowed graduate status upon Middlesex University, said: "Middlesex is accommodates all ages, abilities and well over 500 maritime professionals. pleased to be working with the Marine aspirations. So whether you simply wish to Each is now the proud possessor of a Society to benefit maritime professionals. With the launch in June of ratings’ improve those GCSE grades from school qualification that’s widely recognised and Work Based Learning is a flexible and apprenticeship programmes that will boost or whether you're a senior officer seeking transferable within and beyond the tailored learning experience combining the number of UK ratings in coming years, civilian recognized qualifications in maritime sector. individual aspiration with achievement there is expected to be an increasing preparation for coming ashore, The In his address Marine Society director delivered through work, in work and for number of seafarers seeking advancement Marine Society will have something to Brian Thomas told representatives from all work”. to their first OOW. All will benefit from offer. sections of the maritime industry that Next intake is this autumn. If you’d this new Maths up-skilling programme. work-based learning offered two attractive like to find out more email education@ms- And the Maths knowledge demanded GCSE/A Level pathways to graduate status, each offering sc.org for an information pack. Marine at nautical college, with aspects of algebra, A reminder to all who need to improve an opportunity to gain academic Society will look after all the paperwork, geometry and trigonometry, is becoming their GCSE and/or A Level grade that the equivalency for seafarers’ vocational enabling you to focus on the learning. increasingly specialised, it being no longer Marine Society ought to be your first qualifications and accrued competencies. Marine Society lifelong learning a part of many GCSE syllabi. The Marine choice to provide first class tutor- An HND or FD can be topped up to a manager Wendy Monaghan told Gunline: Society’s programme addresses this supported study programmes. Bachelors degree with honours or, for ‘Feedback received indicates seafarers rate knowledge-gap. The result will be greater The Society will help you achieve the seafarers holding a Class 1 CoC, there’s a this work-based learning pathway highly. self-confidence amongst learners and best possible examination result in the pathway to get a Masters degree. Either We’re pleased to have made it possible. improved retention rates for companies shortest possible time. As you’d expect, route is achievable in under a year, but It’s what we do best: supporting seafarers and colleges. there is full support for email and typically takes around 15 months. and incentivising them to self- The MathsatSea programme is free of telephone, and all staff are familiar with Both routes are seafarer-friendly, by improvement.’ charge to end users – offered as part of the your commitments with the RFA. which is meant they don’t require Marine Society’s broad range of services As a registered exam centre for GCSE attendance at a college, they’re fully tutor- Maths@Sea in support of seafarers. and A Levels, the Marine Society can enter supported, and internet access is not a The Marine Society has just launched a www.MathsatSea.com. and register students for their exams and precondition. new web-based Maths up-skilling arrange for them to take place at sea Brian emphasised that the role of programme designed to address the needs Facebook if necessary. The next available Marine Society throughout is to support of ratings who seek advancement to first The Marine Society has embraced social opportunity to sit GCSE and A Level the individual during every aspect of the Officer of the Watch (OOW) ticket. media. It now has a Facebook page and examinations will be November 2011 and programme, from initial enquiry through The Marine Society’s Maths at Sea we hope Gunline readers will pop January 2012. Contact the Marine Society to graduation. offer is at: www.MathsatSea.com. by and take a look at to find out more or visit It was therefore important that those This easily accessible learning package www.facebook.com/marinesociety marine-society.org/rfa who express interest in the programme is an up-skilling programme covering the should do so through the Marine Society. basics of Maths. Key features are that it Advice Work Based Learning If they don’t and go direct to the IWBL, has been designed from bottom up by Advice on all matters of concern to RFA On 14 July a well-attended early evening they risk losing out on some Marine specialists in nautical education and that seafarers is free, independent and the entire programme has been marine confidential.         contextualised – in other words, it uses Last year the Marine Society dealt with examples and language to which seafarers 6,500 queries from maritime           can relate. professionals. 39% of those were about     The charity worked closely with South issues related to continuing professional Tyneside Marine College to identify development with a view to coming We've more experience in Working with education and Supporting seafarers is common areas of weakness and a ashore. the field of distance learning training providers to deliver our strength. specialist maritime eLearning provider to The Marine Society remains the only than any other maritime seafarer-focused opportunities create the content and manage online maritime sector organisation to hold the sector provider. for quality-assured personal and professional development. registration and assessment. coveted Matrix Standard - the national The Marine Society recognises that quality standard for any organisation that Find out more at: marine-society.org many ratings have not been in a formal delivers information, advice and/or learning environment for some time and guidance on learning and work. that the prospect of returning to a 202 Lambeth Road classroom can be daunting. Evidence Visit www.marine-society.org to find London SE1 7JW Telephone shows that lack of self-confidence, out more or email [email protected] 020 7654 7050 Email particularly as far as tackling Maths is to request a free information pack. A charity registered in England and Wales [email protected] 313013 and in Scotland SC037808 concerned, can be a formidable barrier to And don’t forget to check out Facebook career progression. : facebook.com/marinesociety Gunline - 15 NEW 5 TONNE HEAVY REPLENISHMENT AT SEA

ollowing years of design development work, the operational scenarios in a safe and controlled the most hazardous seamanship tasks the Royal Navy FAfloat Support team at Abbey Wood has signed a environment before undertaking it at sea.” engages in and so the training we provide must be of £21 million contract with Rolls-Royce Power The Heavy RAS project is collaborative across the highest standard. Engineering Plc based in Filton, Bristol to develop a many sections of Defence; Defence Equipment & “This is not only to maintain the safety of our ships’ new range of replenishment-at-sea (RAS) equipment Support at Abbey Wood, including the Afloat Support crews but to ensure that vital supplies are transferred and training facility. A land based demonstrator for the and Marine Equipment teams, Navy Command at successfully. Heavy RAS system, a new 5 Tonne capacity system, Portsmouth, Defence Estates and HMS Raleigh, RN will be built at HMS Raleigh as part of a new shore School of Seamanship. Each will provide projects based seamanship school providing essential safety expertise and support to deliver this exciting new training for personnel. In the future, once tested and capability through the single contract. The contract to proved, the HRAS system will be fitted to ships deliver this new capability involves the design and directly supporting the future carriers. build of the associated civil infrastructure and the RAS equipment. Rolls Royce will contract for the design and construction for the new facility at HMS Raleigh which will feature a new classroom block and RAS systems built around a 25m steel mast and steel ship structures. The RAS equipment is being designed by RR in Newcastle and will be manufactured in sites around Europe before being assembled and factory tested in “This new training facility will allow us to properly the UK. HRAS system demonstration trials are due to and safely prepare our crews for the challenges they take place in 2012 and will be followed by the will face at sea particularly in our new Type 45 equipment’s down rating from 5 tonnes to 2 tonnes in Destroyers and new class of aircraft carriers before RAS is a method of transferring fuel, munitions, and order that it forms a key part of the new RAS trainer they undertake the task for real.” general stores from one ship to another while afloat and delivery systems capability for the RFA. On current Challenges to be met by future RAS capability for takes place during day or night and in all weather plans the trainer will hand over to the RN School of the QE Class Carriers include jackstay tensions in conditions. Seamanship in 2014. excess of 20T, physically larger and heavier RAS On letting the contract Commodore David Preston, Loads and inboard RAS reception points in the QEC Head of Afloat Support team at Abbey Wood and RFA HMS Raleigh’s Commanding Officer, Captain Steve underneath the external aircraft lifts and day/night Commodore(E) said: Murdoch, said: operations in high sea states. The demands on the “We are delighted that the contract for this vital “Replenishment at Sea is a vital capability that enables parent supply vessel design have been fully recognised training facility has been signed. This equipment will our ships to restore without coming back into port and and will be progressed in line with future ship help train Royal Navy and RFA crews in real time therefore stay on the operational task. It is also one of procurement programmes.

RFA OFFICER TURNED PC SUPPORTS COUGAR

aving worked for the RFA as a deck officer several training he had received and the experience he had experiences by working with a range of individuals Hyears ago Craig Pearson left the service to join an developed. including the ship’s officers, embarked Royal Marines, alternative one, Hampshire Constabulary in 2006. As part of his role in the RNR Craig is usually embarked Royal Navy personnel and soldiers of the However keen not to lose all his connections with the deployed for a couple of weeks every year aboard an Army’s Port and Maritime Regiment based in sea Craig decided to join the Royal Naval Reserve Marchwood. The STOM objective is to make sure the (RNR). Having already served in a number of RFA’s in personnel and combat equipment onboard is configured the last few years Craig couldn’t resist the challenges of correctly for the next mission or any other contingent being part of this year’s biggest deployment – OP tasking. When the ship is conducting a full amphibious COUGAR. landing his team co-ordinate and control all of the On Saturday 21st May, two days earlier than above elements to get the Royal Marines, their kit, planned, just as day was breaking he left home to travel weapons, vehicles and stores from the ship to the shore, to RAF Brize Norton in time for his mid morning flight in the correct priorities, using various different landing to the British base of Akritiri in Cyprus. From there he craft and helicopters. was transferred by Royal Marine landing craft to Cardigan Bay, which was to become his home for the next three weeks. This was not a normal day in the life of a police VICKY BARTON officer, but for the next three weeks Craig wasn’t doing icky Barton who was PA to a number of his normal job. He had deployed in his military role as Vsenior RFA and Civilian officers throughout an Amphibious Warfare Officer in the RNR as part of her long career, sadly passed away peacefully in Operation Cougar the largest deployed amphibious her sleep on 25 June 2011 aged 86. exercise of 2011 in the Mediterranean. He had been Vicky worked for DST(SF) and latterly provided with limited details before he left but Craig COMRFA and retired about 21 years ago. Since the was acutely aware of the number of NATO forces that demise of the RNSTS and then the evolution of had deployed to the area as part of the Libyan incident. amphibious ship as part of the Royal Navy’s UK Task COMRFA it is likely that the majority of people Prior to starting his police career Craig was a Group. Hampshire Constabulary provides him with six who will remember Vicky will be retired RFA and navigating officer with a cruise ship company before days of leave every year to assist in meeting that Civilian personnel who served at Empress State joining the RFA as a warfare officer. After a few more commitment. building. years at sea he decided to hang up his sea boots and Within the ship he now works as a watch keeper as A memorial service was held on Monday July head ashore to start a new vocation be not wanting to part of the Ship to Objective Manoeuvre (STOM) cell 11th at Mortlake Crematorium, Kew Meadow entirely relinquish his life at sea he joined the RNR as within the Amphibious Operations Room (AOR). As Path, Richmond. a way to use and maintain the years of professional part of the planning process he relives his past RFA 16 - Gunline LOOKING FOR A CHALLENGE - JUBILEE SAILING TRUST

he Jubilee Sailing Trust (JST), based in permanent crew who share the same values of promoting the integration of people of all physical TSouthampton own and operate the only two square teamwork, sharing and integrity and would be delighted abilities; a voyage on one of our ships is where sympathy rigger tall ships in the world. The uniqueness of the ships to consider applications for supernumerary positions for gives way to understanding. This is done by challenging is that they have been designed and built suitably qualified RFA personnel. For example voyage the perception of disabled people’s ability, both of to enable able bodied crew member, Barry themselves and the perception of those around them, via and physically says: the challenge of tall ship sailing with a mixed ability disabled people to sail “As a visually impaired crew, who take responsibility for sailing the ship alongside as each other person I was refused throughout a voyage. on equal terms. entry to the Royal Navy The JST’s tall ship voyages visit a mixture of interesting The two tall ships are 45 years ago. All these and exotic places ranging from the UK in the summer both British flagged years later the JST has months, to the Mediterranean, Canary Islands and and Lloyds registered. given me the chance to Caribbean in the winter. They are MCA and fulfil my lifelong There are opportunities for RFA personnel to sail in a ISM compliant and dreams and ambitions professional capacity on board JST vessels as Deck permanent crew on a ‘level playing Officers, Engineers, Cooks and Medical Pursers consist of eight STCW field’ with other people covering leave for our permanent crew, tours being certified, officers: – as well as observing between two and six weeks. Formal qualifications are a Master, 1st Officer, others with far more requirement in most cases but strong people skills, 2nd Officer, Bosun serious disabilities than promoting the values of the JST, interaction with our (Officer of watch my own, reach their customer’s, diversity and disability awareness are also qualified and general seamanship duties), Chief engineer own personal goals. Thank you, JST!” extremely important in all roles. and 2nd engineer, Medical Purser and a cook. The JST ‘Change Lives’ by breaking down barriers For more information please contact Andy Spark on t. As part of our ethos, the JST are always looking for between the able bodied and the physically disabled, 02380 44 3113 or e.mail [email protected]

SEAMEN’S HOSPITAL SOCIETY PHYSIO SUPPORT

orking at sea is one of the most challenging jobs help merchant seafarers as well.” employers to publicise the scheme to all UK merchant Win the UK and the time spent offshore means it The new physiotherapy service is being run by navy ratings. Together they hope to raise awareness of can be a problem getting treatment for the work-related Connect Physical Health on behalf of the Seamen’s the health needs of seafarers across the country, and injuries many experience. This has prompted the Hospital Society. All merchant navy ratings need to do is show that physiotherapy treatment can help them at Seamen’s Hospital Society (SHS) to fund free ring 0191 247 5000 and arrange to speak to a chartered work and in their physiotherapy for merchant navy ratings across the physiotherapist. Any treatment required will be provided everyday lives. RMT country. locally. National Secretary SHS is promoting easy-to-access physiotherapy Merchant seafarers can experience considerable Steve Todd said: treatment for serving merchant navy ratings who are UK physical problems doing their work. A recent “This is a positive residents. This follows the success of several pilot questionnaire found that 20% of merchant seafarers move which is very projects set up by SHS to promote physiotherapy reported a recent back or neck injury and an additional much welcomed by services to fishermen in Newlyn, Kilkeel, Brixham and 13% had suffered a back or neck injury that was bad RMT. It will lessen Peterhead. enough to prevent them from workingi. the financial loss for Peter Coulson, SHS General Secretary, explained: SHS Health Development Manager, Sally seafarers and enable “The original pilot for fishermen in Newlyn highlighted Hampshire, said: “Because seafarers spend so much time them to get back to that by raising awareness of the benefits of at sea it’s difficult for them to get help from the usual sea quicker than physiotherapy treatment, and making a service sources in normal working hours. That’s why the Society would have been the accessible, we can improve the health and wellbeing of is funding private physiotherapy for merchant seafarers; case without access those working at sea. Physiotherapy has already helped it’s fast, flexible and responsive to their needs.” to these specialist more than 100 Newlyn fishermen and we now want to SHS is working in partnership with the Unions and services”.

FORT GEORGE DONATION TO RNLI Sudoku Solution aptain Martyn Bunker as Commanding Officer of donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. CFort George, having recently been taken out of Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews service, presented the crew of the Eyemouth RNLI and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. 17352 4 6 98 Lifeboat with a donation of £244.21. Eyemouth The donation, from the officers and crew of Fort lifeboat station has been operating since 1876. George, was handed over by Captain Bunker and was 8967314 25 The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers received on behalf of the RNLI by Eyemouth lifeboat provide a 24-hour search operations manager, James 5 4 2869173 and rescue service around Tarvit, who thanked the and Captain Bunker and the 3 6 5 1 9 2 8 4 7 Republic of Ireland coasts. crew of RFA Fort George The RNLI operates over for their generous donation. 4 87356219 230 lifeboat stations in the 9214 87536 UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard 6 5 4 2 7 3 9 8 1 units on beaches around the Captain Martyn Bunker UK. The RNLI is presenting the cheque to 23891576 4 independent of Coastguard James Tarvit, Operations and government and Manager for RNLI 71964 8352 depends on voluntary Eyemouth