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RFA Fort Victoria Falkland Supports Causes More Islands Ice Patrol Disruption Commemorated p3 p4 p11

GunlineGunline – The First Point of Contact | Protecting our Nation’s Interests | Spring 2012 | www.rfa.mod.uk

BMT Defence Services/ DefenceImaging.com - ©BMT Defence Services MARS Fleet Contract Signed ANNOUNCEMENT TO SPEND £452M ON FOUR NEW RFA TANKERS

The RFA has great reason to celebrate after At the event senior staff from DSME, who the fantastic news in late February when the travelled from South Korea to the Filton site, MoD announced that they were to sign a signed the MARS Tanker contract with multi million pound contract to purchase a Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S). They new generation of tankers weighing in at an were joined by members of the Royal Fleet impressive 37,000 tonnes each. This is a clear Auxiliary and UK ship designer BMT Defence indication of the government’s commitment Services, who will work with DSME on the to the RFA and recognises the value of our programme. support to the and will significantly increase our capabilities and Bill Walworth, Head of the demonstrates that we continue to have a RFA, said: strong future in support of the naval service. “This is fantastic news and we are delighted After many months of negotiating, the RFA will operate these world class vessels. Minister for Defence Equipment Support and These fleet replenishment tankers will be Technology, Peter Luff, announced that flexible ships, able to operate with the Royal Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering Navy and Armed Forces in conflict, and are (DSME) is the Government’s preferred bidder designed to allow for upgrades and emerging for the deal. This represents the best value for technologies meaning that they have been taxpayers’ money, with £452 million to be designed with the future in mind.” spent on the four new vessels to support the Being over 200 metres long, the four Royal Navy on operations around the world. 37,000-tonne tankers will be approximately BMT Defence Services/ DefenceImaging.com - ©BMT Defence Services The announcement was described as a the same length as 14 double decker buses “dream” when a delegation of senior and can pump enough fuel to fill two Olympic able to operate helicopters and are planned for taxpayers is for the tankers to be personnel from one of the world’s largest sized swimming pools in an hour. The UK’s to enter service from 2016, replacing the constructed in South Korea by DSME.UK shipbuilders visited Abbey Wood. The award new fleet of refuelling tankers for the naval existing single-hulled tankers. companies will however benefit from £150m of the Military Afloat Reach and Sustainability service will feature naval design expertise A number of British companies took part of associated contracts comprising of £90m on (MARS) Tanker contract marked the new deal from Bath-based BMT Defence Services. in the competition, but none submitted a final contracts for the provision of key equipment, between South Korean company DSME and They will support deployed amphibious bid for the build contract. In light of this, the systems, design and support services and the MOD. land and air forces close to the shore, will be best option for Defence and value for money £60m investment in the UK from Continues on p2 Gunline 1-3_Layout 1 02/05/2012 17:37 Page 2

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The high tempo of last year people who lost their lives and a wider number who survived the continues. Operational demands are attacks on our ships, but who have subsequently suffered. as challenging as ever and this Commodore Bill Walworth Over the past year I have been told that Gunline is losing the edition is full of stories from our and Diligence in support of all the UK naval presence in the region. people stories of the past, in our focus on operations. We have taken ships and people. We are in the All of them are engaged in wider security operations associated with this in and used the opportunity to update it, introducing some new middle of a heavy maintenance the region. sections; including letters, sports and a family section. These will programme with our colleagues in Fort Rosalie is in the West Atlantic and Caribbean to show the develop in time, but we would love to hear about sport at sea and A&P and Cammel Laird and our shore UK’s continued commitment to the region, prepared for hurricane on leave and what our families have been doing while the seagoers staff are busy supporting the and disaster relief and working with the Joint Inter Agency Task are away. It is very much down to you the readers to send in articles, seagoers, while representing the RFA force in the international campaign against illegal narcotics. They letters and helpful comments for Mark Mundy the editor. In the in the relentless challenge for also hosted a number of heads of state at the Caribbean forum in letters page we will publish anything we judge to have wide resources to carry out all this activity. Grenada, with the Foreign Secretary, William Hague present. interest; I will either respond myself or ask one of the management Meanwhile we are meeting the We have the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic Games board subject matter experts. requirement to reduce our running to look forward to this summer and the RFA will be represented in a Since the last Gunline the people who took Voluntary Early costs, working closely with Nautilus number of venues. Mounts Bay will be alongside in Portland as the Release have left and on behalf of the RFA I would like to thank and the RMT. There is no doubt though that the best news from the logistics and accommodation hub. The Secretary of State for Defence, them all for their work over the years, many of then Gunline Spring has been the contract for four MARS Fleet replenishment The Rt. Hon. Phillip Hammond MP recently made a visit to Portland contributors. I hope they all keep in touch through the RFA tankers, to be delivered at six month intervals from late 2015 and to review preparations for the sailing Olympics and visited Mounts Association. We have been moving ahead with the changes needed the promotion boards which are about to start. Bay to look around the ship. If you look closely at the supporting cast to meet our new budgets, we have still got more to do, and we In operational terms there have been a couple of firsts (we in some of the events you will see RFA people, in fact a story or two particularly need ideas from the Flotilla. As I have said many times, think); Fort Rosalie hosted their Royal Highnesses the Earl and from the Olympics would be a great way to open our sports page in this is not a headquarters problem, we all have views on running Countess of Wessex while they represented Her Majesty the Queen the next edition. the RFA more efficiently, and we need to use them. for her Diamond Jubilee celebrations in the West Indies and Fort This is the 30th Anniversary of the Falklands conflict and our Finally, the RFA memorial at the National Arboretum in Victoria is flag ship for the Royal Thai Navy commander of the thoughts are with the families who lost loved ones during the Staffordshire will be opened on 11th October. I hope you will agree coalition task group combating pirates in the Indian Ocean. conflict. It is particularly poignant that we recently learned of the it is important the current RFA contributes to the memorial and there We welcomed Wave Knight home after her extended passing of Chiu Yiu Nam who was awarded the George Medal for is still plenty of time to make a donation. All it needs is £10 a head deployment as the Arabian Gulf Ready Tanker, a title that fails to do his actions when RFA Sir Galahad was attacked. The from everyone in the RFA to cover the cost, but any contribution is justice to the wide number of roles the ship is involved in. She made was the defining event in the modern RFA and we can date the welcome. the national press accompanying two P&O passenger ships transiting increase in investment in our service from recognition of our value So, there is plenty to look forward to. Well done everyone, we’ve the waters in which Somali pirates are operating. Lyme Bay and vulnerability in that operation. We are involved in a number of been under a lot of pressure but we’ve kept our operational standards continues her important work with the mine countermeasures force events marking the anniversary and will be remembering the RFA and reputation, now we can look ahead again. Enjoy the summer. More Success In The Caribbean and Caribbean region. The ship has outlying islands by the ship’s crew. maintained a presence representing the The RFA crew was enhanced with a 20- British Government in the Caribbean and man Royal Naval Humanitarian and Disaster forged close links with the UK Overseas Relief (HADR) team, together with the Lynx Territories disaster relief organizations. helicopter and 13 personnel from 815 Naval “Wave Ruler carried humanitarian aid and Air Squadron based at Royal Naval Air Station disaster relief stores and equipment Yeovilton in Somerset. throughout her time abroad, plus a RN When not on regional visits to overseas specialist detachment that could be called territories Wave Ruler was tasked to work for upon in the event of a natural disaster such the Joint Inter -Agency Task Force South as Hurricane Irene. Additionally, Wave Ruler (JIATFS) in the area on Counter Narcotics contributed to regional law and order Tasking (CNT) Operations. This involved enforcement.” working in support of local defence and police The ship’s crew provided disaster relief forces, from a host of Caribbean nations, help at the request of the Governor of Grand together with United States Coast Guard and Turk. The ship’s Royal Navy Lynx helicopter the Dutch Navy, to tackle drug trafficking from conducted reconnaissance of the islands and South America to the Caribbean, USA and then disaster relief stores were delivered to Europe.

Wave Ruler arrived back in the UK arriving in to provide food, water and shelter when and Portland, Dorset having sailed to conduct a where required. variety of operations since sailing in February Her crew were also capable of offering 2010 and completing 21 months deployed medical and humanitarian aid when called working across hurricane zones and drug- upon, together with technical assistance using trafficking routes. their training, skills, knowledge and The ship’s primary role has been to experience. undertake Atlantic Patrol Task (North), In August last year Wave Ruler was tasked (APT(N)) around the Caribbean, supporting UK to head to the Turks and Caicos Islands after Overseas Territories and underlining Britain’s Hurricane Irene had passed through the commitment in the region. Caribbean. This role includes carrying vital supplies RFA Wave Ruler’s commanding officer at and stores to offer to small territories hit by the time, Captain Bob Allan said: “I am natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornados delighted to be able to bring Wave Ruler and earthquakes. With a wide range of home to the UK. This has been an extremely disaster relief materials, Wave Ruler was able successful deployment to the South Atlantic

Continued from p1 customisation, trials and specialist Groups. They will also support deployed engineering support. The winning design is amphibious, land and air forces close to the being provided by UK company BMT Defence shore, will be able to operate helicopters and Services. are planned to enter service from 2016, The tankers are part of a multi-billion replacing existing RFA single hulled tankers. pound investment programme for the Royal Navy, which includes Type 45 , Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers and Astute Class attack , employing thousands of people in the UK. The new MARS programme is managed by the Afloat Support team in DE&S, headed by Commodore David Preston. The tankers will maintain the Royal Navy’s ability to refuel at sea and will provide fuel to individual BMT Defence Services/DefenceImaging.com BMT Defence Services/ DefenceImaging.com - ©BMT Defence Services warships and seamlessly integrate into Task - ©BMT Defence Services Gunline 1-3_Layout 1 02/05/2012 17:37 Page 3

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completed. Late into the night we party with FOST induced serials and work to make all secure and ship a baby!), along with force protection shape for the FOST staff’s arrival the exercises, with gun battles raging New Look next day. along the dockside. The final The next few weeks pass in a inspection day starts with the main Gunline blur of alarms, early call to hands, crane breaking half an hour before Over the next couple of months RN acronyms, and pipes that we we are due to launch all our boats! Gunline will be undergoing a don’t use in the RFA, but maybe Needless to say we managed to makeover and to assist in should, like “four o’clockers now repair the crane in time and finished creating the new look, all our being served”, cakes and buns in OST with a VSAT on the day, SAT readers, you included, are the mess room. overall was an excellent encouraged to become more RFA Support New Those who remember when we achievement for a ship that had only involved in the content. You are took over Diligence may well recall joined the fleet six months before. invited to submit articles, how frustrating it can be when preferably electronically, Ice Patrol Ship manuals are all in a foreign reporting on life at sea and or on language; well it was just the same land, be it you’re on leave or on Protector. Luckily we had two working ashore. Your articles It all started in July 2011 on a Friday clothing (AWD)? Where’s the Norwegian Chief Engineer’s called should be accompanied by morning in the office with a request nearest RFA? A look at the ship’s Roar and Paul, who translated all the imagery in electronic format. from Captain Graham, “Neil can you locations reveals Gold Rover or hand written notes in the manuals! Imagery needs to be in as high visit HMS Protector in Portsmouth Orangeleaf down in Devonport are Mentoring like mad I set about a resolution as can be emailed from your account and in all Naval Base and have a talk with the the only RFAs which would be able various legacy defects with the ME’s instances accompanied by a Engineering Officers onboard?” The to provide the gear, not real value and WE’s, that the previous crew “who, what, where, when, why” discussion was to determine if the for money (VFM) going that far for had either ignored or had learnt to detailing the content of the RFA with our commercial AWD’s. Several phone calls later and live with. picture. knowledge could in any way assist AWD’s and boiler suits are located Faults on the EM Log, FLES By the evening of the 16th of Please send your articles and the ship’s staff with systems on the by the RFA Waterfront team in (Forward Looking Echo Sounder), November we were all glad to hear images to either of the Portsmouth and I am nearly ready and various other pieces of the pipe “the safe guard rule is no newly leased interim Ice Patrol Ship, following addresses to go. equipment are identified, rectified, longer in force!” HMS Protector. Defence Intranet: FLEET-CAP rewired or spare parts ordered for. AFSUP GUNLINE SO2 My three weeks mentoring time Internet: onboard Protector seemed to pass [email protected] quickly and it was soon time to Over the last few years there leave, or so I thought. With good has been a marked increase in memories and new friends it was the number of articles submitted time to go back to the office and for consideration and thanks to take a well earned summer holiday all those of you who have with the family. forwarded a whole selection of Meanwhile back in the office, articles. The production of the Captain Graham received a letter We spent the next two weeks paper is largely dependant on from Protector’s CO thanking the preparing to deploy, loading snow these articles and whilst it is not RFA for all my help and asking if we shovels and other equipment we possible to guarantee publication will consider loaning me to the ship need down in the ice. We finally this is a request for more people again for OST and the first austral departed the UK for the Antarctic on to write articles from those in summer deployment! the 28th November 2011, sailing ships, shore posts and family and After being given a warm Monday morning comes around into some very unpleasant weather. friends. welcome and having an initial chat very quickly, a short journey to After a week or so of rocking and Articles submitted should with the CO and SMEO of the Portsmouth, the normal wait at the rolling and very little sleep, we ideally be around 250 words and Portsmouth Naval Base I was given main gate pass office for a car pass finally reach calmer seas. With the don’t forget to provide those a tour of the ship to view the and I am onboard HMS Protector. weather improving all the time we images as previously mentioned. various commercial systems With the mandatory safety brief make ready for the crossing the line As part of the refresh a installed onboard. I soon concluded over I am shown to my cabin that ceremony. Neptune’s bear’s and number of new sections are the RFA would be able to help, as will be home for the next few policemen issue his summonses on going to be considered and their most of the systems are similar to weeks. Realising this is a chance in a the evening of the 11th of success is very much dependant those on RFAs. With the ship being I was welcomed by a 26” flat lifetime to get down to the ice; I December. We cross the line around on contributions from the delighted at hearing the news that screen digital television, coffee have no problem with rejoining 8am on the 12th of December, readers. These include – the RFA would be able to help I table, easy chair, sofa, large wooden Protector. Numerous meetings are Neptune arrives at 1pm and his • Sport – Achievements and returned to NCHQ to Brief Capt desk, water colours on the held within NCHQ, terms of court was put in session. events in the future being Graham. bulkheads, en-suite facilities, two reference are drawn up and finally entered. I reported that we would be able portholes; one even opens, but it is decided that I will be Protector’s • Family Noticeboard - Invite families to comment on and to offer suitable assistance to what’s this? A single bunk! Oh well, ETO until she finishes her first austral give opinions on subjects. Protector’s crew in their hour of you can’t have everything. summer deployment to Antarctica. • Letters to Editor – Comment need. It was decided that the I rejoin the ship on the 28th of from individuals on current following Monday morning we August 2011 as ETO. The ship topics. would contact RFA Pers Ops to see if partakes in VIP visits, OST • “Anything to Declare” – a series a suitable System Engineer was preparations, and a Technical Stop of questions for readers to (AMP) in Emden, Germany which available to join HMS Protector for a answer about their connections takes up most of our time, along with Less than a week later we arrive few weeks in a mentoring roll. with the RFA – Monday afternoon the reply the normal trials and equipment fits in Rio for a few days rest; I get some Why and when did you join the came back accompanied by the that you get on a new vessel. time ashore to see the sights. An RFA? following question, “No one is ISSC calls in early October so a official cocktail party is held for local What did you do before joining? available! Neil what have you got Dressed in my newly acquired week ashore being “gassed”; dignitaries and then back to sea What have you always wanted planned over the next few weeks”? AWD’s, down to the Engine Control extinguishing fires, and jumping again for Christmas, next stop is to do but not yet got round to? So with a bit of juggling and a few Room (ECR) I go and meet the ME’s into lakes, as well as plugging holes Montevideo for the New Year then What’s your dream trip? polite requests for others within the and WE’s, who I will be working in the DRIU take up my time. down to the ice and Antarctica. What’s your most memorable office to cover appointments, it was with over the coming weeks. I returned to Protector on the First Officer SE Neil Joly trip? decided that I would join HMS There’s Eddy the EO, Rocky the EO2, evening of the 16th of October, the HMS Protector ETO What do you do to relax? Protector the following Monday as Cheesy, Fozzy, Bungy, Skins, Fitzi, OST Safe Guard rule is put in force One thing nobody else knows her Electro Technical Officer (ETO) for Dinger, Sticky, Yorkie and Roar the early next morning. Numerous about you? three weeks. Norwegian Chief Engineer to name exercises and serials are conducted Which destination surprised you The days go by and the good but a few. over the next five weeks, some of most? natured banter in NCHQ about Lt Cdr Everyone is busy with the serials which we in the RFA What’s your favourite ship and SE Joly and “don’t think you’ll have preparations for the FOST covered would never conduct let alone take why? a team working for you when you Initial Sea Safety Training with part in. A FOST covered reception and Who would you most like to get back” start. Then the realisation securing for Sea State 7, Kill Cards capability demonstration in have a beer with? hits home, how do I get my loan and Aide Memoirs all needing to be Dartmouth springs to mind (cocktail Gunline 4-5_Layout 1 01/05/2012 21:04 Page 4

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This was the third successful disruption of a pirate action group operating from a pirated mothership over a seven day period. This Counter Piracy Success On demonstrates NATO’s capability to track and stop target vessels by using information from the various maritime counter piracy forces Ocean Shield operating in the area.

NATO has contributed to the international counter piracy effort off the Horn of Africa since December 2008. The mission has expanded from escorting UN and World Food Programme Shipping under Operation Allied Provider and protecting merchant traffic in the Gulf of Aden under Operation Allied Protector. In addition to these activities and as part of

Fort Victoria whilst part of NATO’s counter As dawn broke on Friday 13th January, Fort piracy task force Victoria along with her embarked Lynx Mark successfully disrupted a suspected pirate 8 helicopter was tasked to intercept the vessel looking to launch attacks on merchant suspected pirate vessel. At first light, Fort vessels transiting through the Gulf of Aden. Victoria launched her helicopter with Royal Marine maritime snipers to investigate the suspected pirate vessel to ascertain the identity and business of the dhow. In order to stop the vessel, the helicopter fired several rounds of various warning shots at the dhow. This included firing flares, shots across the bow and shots into an unmanned bow section of the dhow.

pirates surrendered, moving to the front of the latest mission, Operation Ocean Shield, their ship with their hands up. A thorough NATO is working with other international On Thursday 12 January, USS Carney also search of the vessel revealed 13 individuals, bodies to help develop capacity of countries part of Operation Ocean Shield discovered and numerous weapons including RPG launchers in the region to tackle piracy on their own. tracked a suspected dhow thought to be a and machine guns. NATO has announced its continuing pirate attack vessel in the Indian Ocean. In a Captain Shaun P Jones RFA, Commanding commitment to counter-piracy by extending combined show of force, both RFA Fort Victoria Officer of RFA Fort Victoria, said: Operation Ocean Shield to December 2012. and USS Carney manoeuvred towards the “I am extremely proud of the way in dhow, with the intention of encouraging her which my crew and helicopter in tandem with to comply with the counter piracy forces. This embarked were able to should have been intimidating, given the size Despite these measures, the dhow failed successfully capture these Somali pirates. To of the two military vessels, but the pirates to comply with repeated instructions to stop manoeuvre such a large ship at speed in close were determined to carry on with their and verify her intentions so a Royal Marines vicinity of a nimble dhow takes extreme activities. RFA Fort Victoria was tasked to take boarding team in fast boats approached the concentration and skill; my team were never positive action to disrupt the progress of the vessel and successfully boarded it. Shortly found wanting. The 13 Somalis certainly found vessel. after the Marines approached, the suspected Friday 13th unlucky for them!” WARM MEXICAN WELCOME Fort Rosalie visited the important port of During Fort Rosalie’s visit, Admiral Victor Naval School cadets, the school was renamed including the Beatles and Land of Hope and Veracruz in Mexico, following on from Deputy Manuel Gamboa, commander of Mexico’s the Heroic Naval Military School of Mexico in Glory. Teachers and school children from the Prime Minister Nick Clegg’s visit to Mexico in Third Naval Zone and Captain Ross G. Ferris their honour. Bachillerato Veracruz turned out in force to March 2011 and a commitment made by OBE, Commanding Officer RFA Fort Rosalie laid While in port, some of the ship’s company see the ship displaying a banner of British and FCO’s Secretary of State William Hague almost a wreath in remembrance of the defence of attended a climate change seminar where Mexican Friendship. two years ago. Veracruz on 21 Apr 1914 against the American among other notable speakers, Group Captain occupation during the Mexican Revolution. Maurice Dixon addressed the seminar which The defence of Veracruz by naval academy covered topics on sustainable development cadets is a significant event for the Mexican and greenhouse gas emissions. Navy, where Lieutenant Azueta and a Naval Other activities included a series of Military School onboard work shops on International cadet, Cadet Maritime Search and Rescue, Humanitarian Midshipman Assistance and Disaster Relief and Oil Virgilio Uribe, Pollution. This involved presentations and an 10 Feb 2012 - Capt Ross Ferris OBE, Cadet Laura McA- died during the exchange of information between RFA Fort ree, teachers and pupils of the Bachillerato Veracruz. Dockside Farewell to RFA FTRO. Vice Admiral Víctor Manuel Gamboa Carvallo of the fighting and are Rosalie’s Officers and about 20 Officers and Mexican Navy , Capt Ross Ferris OBE and Mr Richard now part of the Senior Rates of the Mexican Navy. RFA Fort Rosalie is currently in the Barlow UKFCO at a wreath laying event to commem- list of honour A party of school children from the Caribbean supporting UK Overseas Territories, orate the defence of Veracruz in 1914. read by all Bachillerato Veracruz were given a tour of the providing the UK Government’s presence in The purpose of the visit was to strengthen branches of the ship and children presented a book on the region and strengthening bonds with our ties and maximize exchange of ideas in areas Capt Ross Ferris OBE and Vice Mexican Armed Mexican history and school baseball caps as allies as well as acting as a deterrent to drug like innovation, technology, education, Admiral Víctor Manuel Gamboa Forces. In presents to the crew. smugglers. RFA Fort Rosalie is ideally suited climate change and sustainable development Carvallo of the Mexican Navy memory of the There was a grand departure from to demonstrate the RFA’s military, logistical following a wreath laying event as well as foster good relations between to commemorate the defence of brave defence Veracruz with the Mexican Navy Band playing and specialist skills having recently returned RN/RFA and the Mexican Navy. Veracruz in 1914. put up by the a mixture of British and Mexican music from operations off the coast of Libya. Gunline 4-5_Layout 1 01/05/2012 21:04 Page 5

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“You have to have a certain temperament to succeed, a certain Argus’ Fond Farewell Fleet Air Arm ethos, but the pilots, observers, aircrewmen, they are all Knight of individuals. There’s no one trait and To Merlin Mk1 we’re certainly not trying to produce carbon copies of ourselves.” Cdr Gavin Richardson, 824’s Chivalry Commanding Officer, added: “The embarked period is what the squadron team effort works toward. It is the crowning glory of a long an arduous road for our students which provides that opportunity to show the investment was worthwhile and that they have metamorphosed into naval aviators, able to operate and fly from that most demanding environment: the sea.” On two separate occasions, both on presentations to passengers, on the Students who come through the beautiful flat-calm days, Wave Royal Navy and international navies’ training, earn their Wings in June Knight on the 19th January whilst response to the piracy. and go on to join one of three front- conducting counter-piracy and Captain Clarke, said, “The line Merlin squadrons based at security patrols in the Gulf of Oman passengers onboard, and the crew Culdrose. In doing so, they will be met P&O cruise liner MV Oriana themselves, know what such the last of scores of Merlin crews to steaming at 23 knots in the Gulf of important work we, the Royal Navy pass through the squadron and the Aden en route to Muscat. Only a few and the coalition effort are impressive simulator and training days later, on the 26th January, she undertaking in this part of the complex at the air station on the met Oriana’s sister ship MV Arcadia world for their benefit and that of Lizard peninsula since the late in the Gulf of Oman steaming at the international maritime 1990s. 21knots towards Dubai. community…’ Merlin was originally introduced as a hunter to replace the venerable Sea King. It has since grown into a general purpose helicopter capable of interdicting pirates and drug runners, saving the lives of stricken mariners, delivering stores and people as well as fulfilling their original anti- submarine mission. The first next-generation naval Pictures: LA(Phot) Dave Sterratt, RNAS Culdrose Merlin, the Mk2, arrives in Cornwall this summer. Although outwardly A final spot of wizardry from the The six pilots, observers and the helicopter is almost identical, The open decks and balconies of Before ‘signing off’ from the Navy’s trainee Merlin crews saw the aircrewmen – were the last crews of inside the cockpit and command both ships were packed with encounter, Wave Knight, paid a final batch of Merlin aircrew Merlin Mk1s to join the Fleet Air consoles are entirely new. passengers for the sail-past, many verbal salute by sounding the ship’s completing years of arduous Arm, on passing five demanding “There is no comparison with waving their hand-held Union Jack whistle. Oriana passengers were training off the Cornish coast in weeks of training. other aircraft out there,” said Lt Cdr flags given to them at an earlier reported to be ‘over the moon’ with Argus before the Fleet Air Arm gets They had already completed Currie, who has 1,800 Merlin flying ‘Great British Sail-away’ Party! the photo opportunity at close its hands on the next-generation of between two and four years of hours under his belt. “It’s pretty quarters. the Merlin. training and instruction both on awesome when it comes to what it Wave Knight was one of a large simulators and the genuine article. can do - especially the variety. number of Royal Navy and Royal Their stint on the 28,000-tonne “Things have moved on since Fleet Auxiliary vessels engaged in training ship - which doubles as the the Mk1. It has served us well - and operations in the Gulf region. Wave Navy’s casualty treatment vessel in still serves us well - but it’s time to Knight’s presence and that of other times of war - was their first taste of move on.” coalition warships in the region is a operating the Merlin, which is the clear sign to the passengers and mainstay of the Royal Navy’s anti- crew of Oriana and Arcadia that the submarine and counter-piracy international effort to contain piracy operations around the world. Captain Chris Clarke, the and crime at sea is ongoing. The Aboard Argus, the trainees go Commanding Officer of Wave Knight passengers were hugely from the basics of landing on and said, “…what a wonderful appreciative of Wave Knight coming taking off from a flight deck at sea opportunity it was to meet such to say hello. to practising search and rescue drills, fabulous ships. There is a real sense then on to tactical missions such as of self-belief onboard in that we are hunting submarines or surface ships. making a demonstrable contribution “You learn so much more in the to the safe passage of these, and real world than you do on a other, vessels of the mercantile simulation,” said student pilot Sub community. It is clear they are Lieutenant Will Legge. thankful for the work that the UK The students of 824 Naval Air “The real world provides 100 and others are putting into the Squadron left their home base of times more variation, things that maritime security effort.” RNAS Culdrose to joined aviation you can never plan. And if things go Captain Clarke has two special training ship RFA Argus off the wrong, you cannot just press ‘reset’. links with Arcadia. Firstly, with Cornish coast. Eighteen trainee “Completing the first deck Commander Martin Ewence, pilots, observers and aircrewman landing is a milestone. You are Arcadia’s on-board Royal Navy from 824 Naval Air Squadron at pretty nervous beforehand, because Liaison Advisor and counter piracy Culdrose spent five weeks flying on, the deck looks tiny.” advisor whilst she transits the high off and around the aviation training Sea Flight Commander and risk areas. The pair worked together ship RFA Argus - the last crews to do senior 824 instructor aboard Argus, in 1997 when undertaking specialist so before the Merlin Mk2 joins the Lt Cdr Mike Currie, said of the five- 824 Squadron will learn the ins warfare training. Secondly with 2nd Fleet Air Arm later this year. The last week training spell. and outs of the new helicopters first Officer Andy Walker who had of the first generation of men and “This is where we put into before the rest of the Merlin trained as a Deck Cadet with his Only days earlier, Wave Knight, women to fly the Navy’s newest practice all that has been taught community gets to grip with them step-son several years before. was involved in the rescue of 10 helicopter completed their flying previously - it is almost the final and it begins front-line Whilst onboard Arcadia, Cdr people from a capsizing vessel off training off the South Coast. hurdle. deployments. Ewence gave talks and the Omani coast. Gunline 6-7_Layout 1 01/05/2012 21:04 Page 6

6 | Gunline | Spring 2012 CARIBBEAN FORUM’S NEW VENUE Fort Rosalie was in the Caribbean to Grenada and said his country was event declaring that Fort Rosalie supporting UK Overseas Territories, delighted to be hosting the Forum. had exceeded the standards providing the UK Government’s Captain Ferris, said that he and the expected of British hospitality. presence in the region and Ship’s Company are honoured to be The ship’s officer’s took the strengthening bonds with our allies involved in such an important and opportunity to speak with guests as well as acting as a deterrent to high profile event and look forward and reaffirmed the UK’s support to drug smugglers. She visited to continuing the good work, the region, before the evening Grenada between 20-22 January to providing assurance and support as concluded and preparations were support the seventh UK-Caribbean well as disrupting the drug underway for Fort Rosalie to Ministerial Forum taking place on trafficking routes in the region, over continue on her deployment. the island. forthcoming months. Fort Rosalie is currently The Forum which was attended Captain Ferris said “I can’t deployed in the Caribbean providing by the Foreign Secretary, Rt Hon emphasise enough how significant the UK Government’s presence in William Hague MP, and three other or important the reception was, I’m the region supporting UK Overseas UK ministers, unites politicians and immensely proud of what was Territories and developing relations business representatives from both achieved whilst in Grenada”. in the region. Representatives of David Weekes receive their award from the Hon. Jeremy Browne MP regions to look for new ways of The reception provided the During her recent visit to working together and to improve opportunity for Mr. Browne to Grenada, Fort Rosalie also hosted ties. present the prizes to the winners of Mr Alan Duncan MP – Minister of Following busy discussions at the afternoon’s Dragon’s Den style State for the Department for the UK-Caribbean Forum after the competition ‘Break Point’. The International Development (DfID). Falkland’s Veteran forum many of the delegates winner of the event was ‘SMAKS’, a The visit included a tour of the attended a reception held onboard company from Trinidad and Tobago, vessel where the ship’s capabilities Fort Rosalie. The event unites specialising in bespoke tea and during Hurricane and Disaster Relief - Sir Galahad Hero politicians and business ‘David Weekes Associates’ of Operations were demonstrated. representatives from both regions Barbados who have developed a Mr Duncan was accompanied It was with great sadness that the realised that there was no one left to identify ways of working container security device. Mr. Kiran throughout by Mr Harry Hagan; RFA learnt of the death, in Hong alive. Only then did he obey the together to improve business ties Akal, creative director of SMAKS and Head of DfID (Caribbean). They Kong, of Mr Chiu Yiu Nam, GM who order to abandon ship. In all, 48 between the countries. David Weekes of ‘David Weekes arrived on board following a UK- died aged 62 on 14 Feb 2012. Chiu seamen and soldiers were killed Amongst the visitors welcomed Associates’ were presented with Caribbean Forum and were met by Yiu Nam was a modest and and many more badly burned. Of on board by the ship’s Commanding certificates and will travel to the UK the Commanding Officer, Captain unsung hero of the Falklands those who survived, at least 10 Officer Captain Ross Ferris were the in May to meet with venture Ross Ferris. They were briefed by conflict. He was cremated at a owed their survival to Chiu. Foreign and Commonwealth capitalists and advisers regarding the Logistics Supply Officer, Chief private ceremony on 24th Feb. Chiu was remarkably modest Minister for the Caribbean, the Hon. their products. Officer Iain Goodchild and the On the afternoon of June 8 about what he had done: on the Operations Officer, First Officer Dave 1982, Chiu Yiu Nam was serving in journey home in the tanker British Grace on the ship’s capabilities RFA Sir Galahad, one of five Test, Capt Roberts quizzed his crew before being taken on a tour of the Landing Ships Logistics which about their role during the ship. ferried troops and stores around bombing of Sir Galahad without Mr Duncan was shown the flight the . Chiu, who discovering Chiu’s heroism. It was deck, the work boats and support was additionally one of the only later that the Commanding infrastructure for disaster relief helicopter flight deck party, was Officer 1st Battalion , work in addition to a visit to the also trained in firefighting. Lt-Col Johnny Rickett (who had main storage area of the ship where In an attempt to outflank disembarked the night before the Supply and Transport Officer (Naval) Argentine positions, Sir Galahad air attack), interviewed his Mr Steve Brown and Mr Duncan and her sister ship Sir Tristram had guardsmen and heard about an discussed the present emergency been sent to Port Pleasant, on the unknown rescuer whose identity stores carried by RFA FORT ROSALIE. south coast of East Falkland, and had been hidden behind a On completion of the tour they elements of the Welsh Guards protective hood. Further inquiries rejoined the rest of the delegates at were waiting to disembark when revealed that this had been Chiu. a reception held onboard and co- the ships were attacked by five He remained reluctant to be hosted by Captain Ferris and The Skyhawk jets of the Argentine air recognised officially for his bravery. Hon Jeremy Browne MP, Foreign and force. In 1983, however, he agreed to fly Capt Ferris and the Hon. Jeremy Browne MP welcome the Grenadian Prime Minister the Commonwealth Minister for the Three aircraft dropped bombs from Hong Kong to London, where Hon. Tilman Thomas Caribbean. on Sir Galahad, one of which the Queen invested him with the Jeremy Browne MP, the Hon. Tillman After the presentation the As he departed the ship Mr penetrated an open hatch, its George Medal. Thomas, Grenadian Prime Minister visitors and ship’s officers attended Duncan said “Apart from the explosion generating a fireball Chiu Yiu Nam was born in 1949 along with representatives of Fort Rosalie’s first reception of her fabulous hospitality it was great to which swept through the tank in Guangdong province, mainland fourteen of the regions current deployment. Several guests visit the ship. She is highly deck, where many troops were China, and little is known of his governments and industries. remarked how delighted they were impressive and an enormously and where ammunition and petrol background. He represented one As part of the event, Foreign and to be onboard and were most important contribution to any were stowed. A second bomb of the last generations of locally- Commonwealth Minister for the impressed with the ship and the disaster in the region.” exploded near the galley area, recruited sailors (others were from Caribbean Hon Jeremy Browne MP killing Chiu’s friend, the ship’s places such as Goa and Malta) who and the ship’s Commanding Officer, butcher, Sung Yuk Fai, and injuring had helped man the Royal Navy’s Captain Ross Ferris, will officially many others. ships for hundreds of years. welcome the delegates onboard for As the stores on the tank deck He retired from the RFA in 1989 a reception during which Mr began to ignite and explode, for health reasons, and lived quietly Browne will present an award to causing intense local fires, the with his mother and younger the winner of a competition held master of Sir Galahad, Captain brother in Hong Kong. He declined during the Forum to identify Philip Roberts, was reluctantly an invitation to fly to London for the Caribbean entrepreneurs. The considering whether to give the 25th anniversary of the Falklands competition known as ‘Breakpoint’ order to abandon ship. Chiu, conflict, but was flattered to receive is a Dragon’s Den Style event which meanwhile, realised that there a handwritten letter from Margaret will send two winning Caribbean were soldiers trapped inside. Thatcher at a reception organised entrepreneurs on a working visit to Wearing a protective asbestos suit, by the local branch of the Royal the UK. Caribbean dignitaries will be he fought his way through the British Legion. He also met the treated to some of the first class smoke and flames into the bowels Duke of York, who visited Hong hospitality that the RFA has to offer. of the ship, where he was Kong in 2010, and last year the Earl Captain Ferris and Mr. Browne confronted by scenes of confusion of Wessex, speaking to both princes gave a short welcome address and devastation. After leading out through an interpreter. before Grenada’s Foreign Minister one man, he went back for Chiu Yiu Nam, born 1949, died the Hon Karl Hood, as the Forum’s another. He continued to return, February 14 2012. He was host, thanked everyone for coming C/O Iain Goodchild with Alan Duncan MP bringing men to safety until he unmarried. Gunline 6-7_Layout 1 01/05/2012 21:04 Page 7

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They’re On The WAVE KNIGHT RESPONDS TO MAYDAY Radar The keen and eager officers selected to undertake the almost four month+ SE Long Course last August arrived at HMS Collingwood, Fareham. Third Officers Dave Betts, John Bryson, Jim Hopps and James MacCormick began the 15 weeks of training that covered radar, radio communications, gyros and navigational systems under the guidance of First Officer Bob Kemp, the course officer. This was to be Bob’s last tutorage of the long course before moving on to pastures new. Included in the course were visits to Abbeywood, MoD Main Building in London, Navy Command Headquarters and PJHQ Northwood, while social events such as the SEMC dinner and Trafalgar night provided an opportunity to take part in mess functions and meet other officers, Royal Navy and Internationals. A week long Junior Officers Leadership Course (JOLC) presented the team with an initial unwelcome change from technical training in the form of command tasks, dog watch sport and a Royal Naval Fitness Test that placed further physical demands on the In mid January Wave Knight responded to a The rescued crew was subsequently Captain Chris Clarke, the Commanding unfit, forty-something SE officers! Only mayday distress call from a 70-foot (21m) transferred to an Omani Coast Guard cutter Officer of Wave Knight, reported the crew safe joking; we all passed and our times were pleasure craft sailing in the Northern Arabian that sped to the scene to rendezvous with and generally well, albeit feeling a little shell- assessed as either Good or Excellent. And we Sea during a storm and helped rescue the Wave Knight. shocked after their frightening experience. He all agreed that on finishing the week it had nine-person crew. said: actually been an enjoyable experience. On Saturday, 14 January 2012, “Once again, the mettle and The final weeks of the course covered the pleasure craft Princess Melisa stamina of my ships’ company has cryptographic equipment and fibre optics, and found herself holed in her bottom shone through; this was another culminated in a 40 minute project plates, taking in water and in highly professional job executed in presentation on laser communications danger of capsizing in rough seas challenging circumstances. They attended by guests including Commodore off the north east Omani coast. should feel very proud of Walworth and Captain(SE) Parsley. Wave Knight was the first vessel themselves.” In summary, everyone on the course on the scene and co-ordinated with Wave Knight is one of a number considered that it was excellent in delivering two SH-60 Seahawk helicopters of Royal Navy and Royal Fleet focussed training for the needs of SE officers from USS John C Stennis that were Auxiliary vessels engaged in in the Bridge and Radio Room environment airborne investigating the incident. operations in the Gulf region. The and has given us a platform to build on and RFA Wave Knight rescued the rescue operation demonstrates the consolidate in future appointments. captain along with the Indian and close co-operation and co- 1/O Steve Taylor Kenyan crew of nine using the ordination between international ships’ boat during the night. maritime agencies in the region. A ROYAL APPOINTMENT For a period of 11 days from the 21 Feb Fort and Museum before visiting the Royal Trinidad and Tobago, the Earl inspected a Rosalie was the de facto “Royal Yacht” Barbados Police Band. That evening Their Guard of Honour from the Trinidad and Tobago becoming home to the Earl and Countess of Royal Highnesses hosted an official reception Coast Guard, and were received by Minister of Wessex for Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond on board Fort Rosalie. Among the guests was National Security John Sandy and Minister of Jubilee Tour of the UK Overseas Territories and Barbadian cricket legend Sir Garfield Sobers. Foreign Affairs and Communications Dr Commonwealth Nations of the Eastern Fort Rosalie sailed to St Vincent and the Surujrattan Rambachan before meeting Caribbean. Grenadines. On arrival in Kingstown after President George Maxwell Richards at Their Royal Highnesses embarked Fort inspecting the Guard of Honour, Their Royal Knowsley House. They were guests of the In the photo L to R - 3/O Dave Betts, 3/O Jim Hopps, Capt Gil Parsley, 1/O Bob Kemp, 3/O Jim Bryson, 3/O Rosalie in Rodney Bay, St Lucia. Their Highnesses were received by Prime Minister President’s Award ceremony where the James MacCormick. programme on St Lucia included attending the Mr Ralph Gonsalves. They visited the Botanical achievements of youths in areas from St. Lucia’s Independence Day Parade and Gardens at Old Montrose and Captain Bligh’s community service to sport were honoured. In Montserrat Their Royal Highnesses were Celebrations with the Governor General, Dame Breadfruit Tree before sailing a short distance Their Royal Highnesses visited the received by the Governor and his wife, His Pearlette Lucy. In the evening they attended to Port Elizabeth on the island of Bequia, Diplomatic Centre for lunch with the Prime Excellency Mr Adrian Davis and Mrs Sujue an Independence Day Reception before where the Earl and Countess were greeted by Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar before visiting Davis. After inspecting the Guard of Honour The rejoining Fort Rosalie and sailing for Barbados. The Hon. Friday, Director Snagg and Deputy the British High Commission to be received by Royal couple went to Government House for an In Barbados, Their Royal Highnesses’ Belmar and Louise Mitchell prior to an evening the Deputy Head of Commission, Head of UK Investiture. The Earl and Countess visited the inspected the Guard of Honour followed by a reception at the Frangipani Hotel. Trade and Industry and Manager of The British Montserrat Volcano Observatory where they visit to the Barbados Parliament where they The next port was St Georges, Grenada Council. Next day they attended the Belmont were introduced to Dr Paul Cole the Director received addresses from both Houses. They where the Earl inspected the Guard of Honour. School and met with Trinidad and Tobago and and met the staff. In the afternoon Their Royal visited the University and opened an exhibition The reception committee was a steel pan band UK Students at Sandwell Academy, by video Highnesses were invited to unveil a plaque showcasing education and achievements in and dancers dressed in colourful costumes on link. The Earl then visited the Trinidad and officially opening the Montserrat National Barbados. The Earl and Countess attended a the quayside. Their Royal Highnesses visited Tobago Defence Force HQ to watch a parade Museum. In the evening they attended a state dinner at Government House before the Laura Herb and Spice Garden where they while the Countess visited the Princess Elizabeth reception and dinner as guests of the Governor. retiring to the ship. took a walk before planting a tree and Centre. The Earl and Countess were guests of On arriving in St Kitts, Their Royal The second day in Barbados, the Countess sampling teas. That afternoon, official visits to honour at the British High Commission Dinner. Highnesses transferred to Sir Donald Gosling’s of Wessex visited the Albert Cecil Graham the Governor General and Prime Minister and On passage to Montserrat, Prince Edward MY Leander and Fort Rosalie’s period as the Development Centre for special needs. The issued Duke of Edinburgh Gold Awards. Their conducted a tour of Fort Rosalie to meet the “Royal Yacht” came to an end although we Earl went to Government House for the Duke Royal Highnesses attended an evening ship’s company. After a tour of the upper were to continue providing guard ship duties of Edinburgh Gold Award Ceremony. The Earl reception at the Cruise Liner terminal with Fort deck, the tour finished in the Sick Bay where to the royal couple for the remainder of the and Countess unveiled a Diamond Jubilee Rosalie a floodlit backdrop. His Royal Highness was shown the dispensary Diamond Jubilee Tour with visits to Anguilla Plaque and toured the Nidhe Israel Synagogue After an overnight passage to Port of Spain and ward areas. and Antigua. Gunline 8-9_Layout 1 01/05/2012 21:05 Page 8

8 | Gunline | Spring 2012

GRAND WELCOME IN GRAND CAYMAN Remembering

During her visit to Grand Cayman, Fort Rosalie The 10-person team was accompanied by Fort Rosalie was built by Scott-Lithgow, an Old Friend had the opportunity to host 30 children from Mr. Benjamin Seymour, supervisor of the and entered service as RFA Fort It is the first anniversary of the passing of the Red Bay First Baptist Christian School. George Town section. The crew began Grange in 1978. Her name was changed to John Joyce who passed away on the 23 Leaving the harbour to join the ship on a tug cleaning the beach shortly before 8am at the RFA Fort Rosalie in 2000 to avoid confusion April, aged 90. and climbing the accommodation ladder was Governor’s Beach and even worked through with RFA Fort George. When fully laden, she Gibraltarian John an experience in itself for some of the the rain. Then Mr. Seymour took the crew to displaces 23,384 tonnes and with her Scott- George Joyce joined children and one kissed Fort Rosalie’s deck in Smith Barcadere where they also raked the Sulzer RND90 22,300 horsepower main the RFA in 1939 as a celebration of arriving on something steadier beach and picked up debris along the engine, can achieve speeds of up to 22 knots. seaman serving on than the transit tug boat. coastline. She is fitted with a bow thrust unit for slow RFA’s Prestol, Viscol, The sailor also described the clean up as a speed manoeuvring. Thermol and Mixol “a nice break from the routine of the ship” as She can replenish warships and other RFAs during the war years well as giving something back to the at sea from a cargo of stores, victuals and and after the war on community. ammunition. The flight deck is capable of other RFA’s. George Acting deputy in the ministry Jonathon operating four helicopters came ashore from the Jackson was grateful tp the sailors for their and when carried, up to 45 Royal Navy air Service in 1955 when he was the Bosun time and effort. “Ugly trash on our beautiful crew are embarked. on RFA Eddy Beach. beaches is not a good sight to see. The The present Fort Rosalie is the second to After his time at sea George joined in Recreation, Parks and Cemeteries Unit works bear the name. The first Fort Rosalie was a the Victualling Yard in for a hard to keep our beach clean. It is always WW2 standard ship built by United further 25 years retiring in 1970 when he good to get help and we thank the crew for Canada. She entered RFA service in 1945 and was awarded the Imperial Service Medal. doing their part.” served until 1973. His war time service however was not As such, we thought it might be a nice idea Fort Rosalie served in the Falklands recognised and he never received any The excitement was evident amongst the to see if some of the crew could do something Campaign in 1982, Operation Desert Storm medals for that time of conflict including children once the party was onboard. They constructive on land to improve a small part 1991 and Operation Telic 2003. taking part, while on RFA Viscol, in were met by the XO, Martin Sayer and the of Cayman, whether it is building, painting, Operation Torch – the Allied landings in Officer of the Day who gave them a guided tour repairing or general tidying up. Plus, this was Prison team leaves guests lost at North Africa in 1942 - when his ship around the ship. Other parts of the tour included a nice break from the routine of the ship and sea received a Battle Honour. PO(Q) Martin Ball demonstrating some of the we give back to the community,” he said. The crew of the vessel Some two years ago the RFA Historical fire fighting equipment and the children used Fort Rosalie has been deployed in the Fort Rosalie enjoyed diverse activities during Society arranged for George to receive the a fire extinguisher. STON Steve Brown talking Caribbean as part of Atlantic Patrol (North) their visit last week, including a football Veterans Badge which he wore with about the ship’s stores and holds while1/O since the beginning of December, carrying out match against Her Majesty’s Prison Northward pride. It then learnt that he had never Susan Cloggie-Holden and the cadets guided official duties (e.g. relating to the recent team. received the medals he was entitled to for them around the bridge, which for most was UK/Caribbean Forum in Grenada) and his service during the war. the highlight of the tour as they were able to activities related to drug interdiction. She has Historical Society members Peter see their beautiful island through the bridge also made stops in the United States, Jamaica Robinson and Chris White researched binoculars and sit in the captain’s chair. The tour and Grenada. George’s entitlement with visits to the ended in the crew mess for ice lollies, cake and Acting Deputy Chief Officer for the Ministry National Archives at Kew and in liaison squash, and they really liked the cake! of District Administration, Works, Lands and with the Maritime and Coast Guard Meanwhile the Fort Rosalie football team Agriculture Jonathon Jackson on behalf of the Agency at Cardiff and with considerable assistance from Commodore W. Walworth played against a team from the local prison Ministry thanked the Fort Rosalie crew for OBE RFA and the team on Whale Island which beat the ship’s team by five goals to their time and effort. secured the medals to which George nil. Cadet James Piggot who had captained “Ugly trash on our beautiful beaches is not should have received 63 years ago. the team said that it was a close game where a good sight to see,” he said. “The Recreation, On Friday 6 November 2009 in the either side could have won. Parks and Cemeteries Unit works hard to keep courtyard of The Tower, HM Naval Base, Finally in a busy visit to the island the our beaches clean. It is always good to get RFA Fort Rosalie players, in yellow, greet the HMP Gibraltar and to much acclaim, before 40 ship’s company helped staff from the parks help and we thank the crew for doing their Northward team members plus serving Service personnel of all ranks and cemeteries unit spruce up Governor’s part.” and rates, his relatives and friends, the beach and Smith Cove despite the rain. For Governor Duncan Taylor said he was A select prison side comprised of prisoners, an officer and members of the Commander - most sailers R&R means time lounging on a delighted that the sailors had offered to Commodore Adrian Bell Royal Navy – beach, cool drink in hand watching the babes help. prison’s football team, known as the Transformers, won the game against Real presented George with the 1939 Star and go by. For the crew from Royal Fleet Ancillary “They prove they are good stewards, not the 1939 War Medal. The Citation was Rosalie, which was held within the prison Fort Rosalie who were in the only by doing their part to protect the borders, read by Lieutenant Commander Nick compound. last week, it meant some cleanup time. but in wanting to keep the environment Chapman Royal Navy, Queen’s Harbour “The prisoners thoroughly enjoyed the The visit to Grand Cayman was clean,” Mr. Taylor said. “We in the Cayman Master, Gibraltar. The RFA Historical spirited and lively match,” said Prison Director recreational; however, whenever the RFA Islands are grateful for their assistance.” Society was represented at the Dwight Scott. “This was the first such football ships visit, no matter their purpose, they are presentation by Chris White. match involving a visiting ship in many always willing to assist with community FYI George’s entitlement hadn’t projects,” said Third Officer (Systems) George Fort Rosalie has a crew of 149, including 10 years.” previously been recognised due to him Counsell. “We thought it might be a nice idea women. She is captained by Captain Ross He added that the prison’s indoor five-a- never holding a discharge book and lack to see if some of the crew could do something Ferris, who was born in 1954 in Feock in side football team has won the Cayman of proper record keeping during the war constructive on land to improve a small part Cornwall. He joined the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Islands Westel 5-a-side championship for the and the Historical Society are pleased to of Cayman, whether it is building, painting, in 1972 as a deck cadet, initially aboard TS past two years. “It is well established that have been able to put the record straight. repairing or general tidying up.” Worcester at Greenhithe on the Thames. sports help to increase prisoners’ self- The RFA Historical Society is actively esteem,” said Mr. Scott. “Players are allowed researching and seeking out other RFA to participate based on factors including good crew members who are entitled to behaviour and their commitment to sentence- medals or awards from their time in the planning measures.” Service where they have not received the RFA Fort Rosalie also hosted a school visit recognition due. and assisted the government’s Recreation, Parks and Cemeteries Unit with painting and repairs at a children’s playground in George Town. Mailing List Fort Rosalie is currently in the Caribbean With GUNLINE now available in electronic supporting UK Overseas Territories, providing format on the RFA page on the the UK Government’s presence in the region www.royalnavy.mod.uk website and the RFA and strengthening bonds with our allies as Community website www.rncom.mod.uk there is now the opportunity to reduce the well as acting as a deterrent to drug amount of unwanted mail. If you would like smugglers. The ship is ideally suited to to read GUNLINE on line and stop receiving it demonstrate the RFA’s military, logistical and in the post please e.mail me at specialist capabilities and skills having [email protected] Fort Rosalie crew members assist Government’s Recreation, Parks and Cemeteries Unit to clean up beaches. conducted operations off the coast of Libya. Gunline 8-9_Layout 1 01/05/2012 21:05 Page 9

Spring 2012 | Gunline | 9

Around the World

DILIGENCE

FORT ROSALIE

FORT VICTORIA LYME BAY

GOLD ROVER

WAVE KNIGHT Undergoing a refit in Birkenhead.

WAVE RULER Alongside the west coast of Scotland loading cargo.

BLACK ROVER Undergoing a refit in Birkenhead.

GOLD ROVER Conducting APT(S) duties in the South Atlantic.

ORANGELEAF WAVE RULER Running as FOST tanker in support of training serials.

FORT VICTORIA Deployed east of Suez in support of coalition forces.

FORT AUSTIN MOUNTS BAY Alongside in Birkenhead undergoing refit.

FORT ROSALIE WAVE KNIGHT BLACK ROVER On APT(N) tasking. FORT AUSTIN CARDIGAN BAY Completing a training package prior to deployment east of Suez.

MOUNTS BAY Conducting training serials in support of the Royal Marines off SW Scotland.

LYME BAY East of Suez in support of naval assets prior to returning to the UK.

ARGUS Commencing FOST training package prior to her deployment

DILIGENCE On passage to the UK having completed her support to coalition ORANGELEAF assets in Gulf. ARGUS CARDIGAN BAY Gunline 10-11_Layout 1 01/05/2012 21:05 Page 10

10 | Gunline | Spring 2012

ARGUS SUPPORTS MEDICAL ENDEAVOUR

More than 150 Royal Naval personnel took exercise will reinforce the enhanced capability operating theatre coupled with a 10-bed part in a major medical exercise off the South of this unique facility.’’ intensive care unit, 20-bed high dependency West Coast onboard Argus between 3 and 25 Commander Neil Wagstaff, Commanding unit, two 35-bed general wards and the full March. Officer of the medical unit within the ship, range of clinical support services, including Exercise Medical Endeavour 2012 saw said: “The primary casualty receiving facility imaging, pathology, pharmacy and Argus operating in her primary role as the delivers deployed hospital care to members physiotherapy. Royal Navy’s Primary Casualty Receiving Ship. of the UK Armed Forces, from the sea. The A wide variety of expertise is embarked The training involved a series of exercises on primary casualty receiving facility aims to including consultants, nurses and allied health board Argus on Thursday 15 March. A Role 3 deliver outcomes of treatment which equate professionals and they provide a full spectrum medical facility provides deployed hospital to best practice and evidence based medicine, of clinical capability, including emergency capability that is similar to the facility in Camp offering the highest level of care to the medicine, general surgery, trauma and Bastion, Afghanistan. It has many similarities deployed Service personnel. The principal orthopaedics, burns and plastics, anaesthetics, with an acute District General Hospital. objective of Exercise Medical Endeavour 12 is general medicine, psychiatry, radiology, The commanding officer of Argus, Captain to ensure that the casualty receiving facility pathology, general practice, dental, intensive Ian Johnson said, ‘’This is an excellent can deliver first-rate healthcare to those care, operating theatre practitioners, opportunity for the ship to exercise its primary deployed on future operations.’ physiotherapists and pharmacists. In addition, role. We are proud to be the Royal Navy’s Many of the medical personnel embarked members of Her Majesty’s’ Royal Marines primary casualty receiving ship and this on Argus for the exercise had only just Band from Scotland will be undertaking their returned from operational role as stretcher bearers. Afghanistan. The Royal The officer commanding the band, Captain Navy Medical Service Ian Davis said,”I am delighted that my team the same organisation and validation process, provided all the have the opportunity to work alongside the used to assess personnel at the Camp Bastion medical support on primary casualty reception facility staff, in hospital in Afghanistan. The final phase will Afghanistan operations their operational role as casualty handlers”. be a healthcare Governance Assurance Audit, last year on Operation Exercise Medical Endeavour allows military to ensure that National Healthcare Standards Herrick 14. Their ability medical staff the chance to work together (Common Assurance Framework) are to adapt and work in a whilst afloat in what is essentially their delivered and maintained on board. variety of different operational role. The exercise occurs in three Both Regular and Reserve personnel man environments only parts; in the first phase, training will the PCRF. The Regular personnel normally serves to demonstrate concentrate on allowing the primary casualty work in Ministry of Defence Hospital Units their versatility and receiving staff to work together as a team ashore. These are integrated military units continued utility to when dealing with emergency situations within NHS hospitals, allowing secondary care defence. onboard, such as fighting fires and floods. (hospital) personnel to maintain their clinical The medical The second phase has medical exercise skills between deployments. MDHU complex within Argus scenarios, based on likely casualty incidents, Derriford (Plymouth), MDHU Portsmouth is a fully-equipped 100 in what could be future tasking. The tempo of (Portsmouth) and Royal Centre for Defence bed-hospital facility the training will increase with Argus receiving Medicine (Birmingham), have supplied the including a four-bay simulated casualties while being assessed by majority of the medical staff for the exercise. FOST TANKER UNDER RETIRING BUT WITH A TOW COMMENDATION By Cadet(X) Jodie Meades reached a towing speed of around 4.5 Jerry Collings has recently retired from the at HMS Raleigh in Torpoint teaching deckhands In February an Algerian Tug, El Moundjid, knots, El Moundjid began the tricky task of service after a career spanning four decades. how to work and operate safely on board ship towed Orangeleaf in the South Coast turning us out of the wind. With a bollard In recognition of his work in developing including the routines required to transfer vital Exercise Areas. This was not because we pull of around 96t and bags of power she training over the last seven years at HMS supplies from ship to ship while at sea. By the had broken down; it was because Flag had no problem in doing so! Raleigh where he has helped to design and time he left Raleigh he had delivered the Officer Sea Training (FOST) was putting one The following day during a second tow implement a new entry course for RFA seven-month course to 140 new recruits. of three brand new Algerian tugs and her exercise an opportunity arose for personnel deckhands, Jerry was presented with a The commendation was awarded by the crew through their paces with an intensive from Orangeleaf and El Moundjid to Captain’s Commendation by WO1 Dave Deakin. Commanding Officer of HMS Raleigh, Captain training package. The tugs are destined to transfer ship. Three RFA personnel went to Steve Murdoch, recognising take station along the Algerian coast in an the tug and one member of the tug’s crew CPO Collings’ “exemplary” emergency/ contingency role in one of the came over to Orangeleaf to observe the service. world’s busiest shipping lanes. working end of the tow. The citation reads: “He Although these towing exercises were From the bow of the tug, it looked like a has been an excellent role designed for the Algerians to demonstrate luxury super yacht, albeit a dull grey super model and superb they can tow a vessel of substantial size, yacht, but a super yacht nonetheless with ambassador for the Royal they also gave the deck crew of Orangeleaf fine lines and an expensive finish. The inside Fleet Auxiliary within the the opportunity to experience connecting was just as luxurious with the furnishings wider defence community up a towline, a process that some and fittings resembling something you and as he nears completion individuals had not previously undertaken would expect from a cruise ship. The towing of an outstanding career he before. The process of connecting the tug’s gear was equally as impressive, with the can be immensely proud of towline went remarkably smoothly. towing winch taking up a huge amount of his achievements at HMS The procedure started with Orangeleaf space; it was certainly the biggest winch Raleigh and throughout his being reported as being “dead in the water that I had ever seen! The Bridge was most time in the RFA.” and drifting”. El Moundjid then observed definitely where everything happened on CPO Collings said: “I feel our set and drift before making an approach the tug. The XO drove the winch from a very humble to receive this on the starboard bow. She fired a gunline, position at the aft end of the Bridge commendation. to our forecastle and this was attached to a overlooking the towing deck; this was next HONOUR: Warrant Officer 1 Dave Deakin (left) presenting CPO Jerry Collings “There are a lot of with a Captain’s Commendation huge towline that we connected to our to the Captain’s position where he drove the words there I wouldn’t anchor cable. We had broken the anchor ship using a sophisticated dynamic Jerry joined the RFA in 1977 and over the have used about myself and a lot of good guys cable earlier in the day so that our deck was positioning system. years he served on countless RFA ships seeing out there, but it is very nice to be recognised. ready to receive the tug’s line. Once the All in all the towing exercises were very active service in the Falklands conflict, the first “At times during my career I’ve thought tug’s line was connected to the anchor valuable experiences and what made it all and second Gulf wars and in the Adriatic. He ‘blimey not another day’, but looking back I cable the tug paid out around 200m of wire the more valuable for me was having the was also involved with operations to enforce have been very, very lucky. and began to tow Orangeleaf slowly into opportunity to see it from both ends of the UN sanctions against Iraq. “I’ve visited places most people will never the wind. After a mile or so and having tow. In the last seven years Jerry has been based see and met some fantastic people.” Gunline 10-11_Layout 1 01/05/2012 21:05 Page 11

Spring 2012 | Gunline | 11

CHIEF’S FINAL VOYAGE ENDS AT WEYMOUTH

Captain Christopher Leigh Forrest had mixed feelings when he was welcomed home by his family at Portland Port back in March after what was his last voyage. Chris, 55, also a Falklands veteran, was born in Cowes but lives in Weymouth where he returned from his last trip on Wave Knight whilst she was stationed east of Suez. He returns to take up a new career afloat after a life at sea. He said: “The opportunities to Capt Chris Forrest with MEO Roger Stevens follow the seafaring life and travel to foreign parts with the RFA have reduced steady progress through the ranks of the RFA. significantly over the last few years and I have He visited North and South America, the decided to take early retirement in order to Caribbean, many Pacific islands and New FALKLAND ISLANDS follow a new career before the mast. I will Zealand. One highlight was a visit to Pitcairn shortly be flying to Capetown to bring the Island, a place rarely visited by ships. Europa back to the Northern hemisphere. Chris said: “After serving on RFA Diligence COMMEMORATED Following that I will also be working on in the last , by now a Chief Engineer, Weymouth’s own tall ship the Pelican of we visited Pakistan where I took part in a London.” dinghy race organised by the Royal Karachi On Monday 2 April Prime Minister David solemnly re-affirm today.” In 1972 he joined the RFA and started Yacht Club. This rekindled my love of sailing Cameron saluted the men and women who A series of events to commemorate the college at Southampton School of Marine and on my return to UK started crewing on a liberated the Falklands and reaffirmed conflict will take place throughout May and Engineering. During his first trip to sea in 1974 32 ft yacht. Shortly afterwards I rejoined Britain’s commitment to the islands, 30 years June and includes events in Portsmouth he visited many distant places like South Castle Cove Sailing Club. My involvement in to the day since they were invaded. Historic Dockyard on Saturday May 5 and Africa, Singapore, Hong Kong, Kenya and also sailing grew over the last few years and I A series of commemorative events in the Sunday May 6 – with York and her successor, a unique opportunity to support a joint forces have crewed in keelboats during a number UK and the Falklands themselves will be held new Type 45 HMS Dragon, open to expedition to Danger Island in the Chaigos of regattas at Weymouth and Dartmouth. over an 11 week period which commenced the public. Archipelago which included the little known, During that period I also started crewing for on the 2 April at the National Memorial The history group Forces 80 will be in RN at that time, David Bellamy. a friend in her Scorpion dinghy and we have Arboretum in Staffordshire. and Argentinean uniforms of the era, In 1982 he served on RFA Sir Tristram now competed in three national events and Some 18,000 Royal Navy and Royal Fleet displaying infantry kit and numerous when it was lost to enemy action in the will be competing in this year’s event at Auxiliary sailors and Royal Marines took part weapons and will set up a command post Falklands. His career at sea continued making Paignton.” in the 11 week campaign to re-take the with documents, radios and Falklands’ maps. islands, which saw a force of more than 100 Nicci Pugh, Senior Nursing Officer for the warships, support vessels and merchantmen Queen’s Alexandra’s Royal Naval Nursing dispatched to the South Atlantic at short Service, who served on the hospital ship notice. Uganda will give talks on the crucial work of Six vessels never returned home, four medics during the conflict. TONY GOODALL (1962 to 2012) Royal Navy warships, one RFA landing ship, On Sunday May 6, there will be a service and the supply ship Atlantic Conveyor. of remembrance in Portsmouth’s Anglican It was with the deepest regret that Gunline He was recognised throughout the RFA and Of those who perished 130 sailors and Cathedral attended by serving RN personnel learned of the death of Tony Goodall, 49. RN as a brilliant Logistician, always seeking commandos accounted for more than half and Falklands’ veterans, and will include a He was widely known across the Flotilla, a more cost-effective way to deliver the 255 British dead; in addition, 257 men performance by the Royal Marines Band. both from his time as an appointer and capability and sustainability. Customer from the Naval Service were wounded. Those Following the service there will be a civic from his sea-going life in the STO(N) service was his prime consideration. sacrifices were honoured at the National procession, to the Falklands’ Memorial in department. At the time of his untimely His man-management skills were Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, where nearby Broad Street for a ceremony where passing, he was working in Navy remarkable. There was never any doubt as a short service of remembrance was held. the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, Lord Command HQ, where his great expertise in to who was boss, yet he socialised at all A Falklands flame was lit in the Mayor of Portsmouth, the leader of the City Solids Support was enhancing his levels while retaining maximum respect. arboretum’s chapel for the first of the 74 Council, representatives from the Royal Navy reputation. He took a genuine interest in the welfare days of the conflict. Up until Thursday June and veterans’ organisations will all lay of every team member. To some he may 14, the anniversary of the Argentine wreaths. have appeared to have run a quite relaxed surrender, visitors can use this to light their After the ceremony the Royal Marines regime, but that was his defining skill. He own candle of remembrance. The first Band will lead Falklands’ veterans in a march demanded great professionalism from his commemorations come as the Government past along Broad Street in front of the people, while still recognising the need to reaffirmed its commitment to the islander’s Falklands’ Memorial where the Lord equate the importance of work, rest and right to determine their own future. Lieutenant and Lord Mayor will take the play. In a message marking the anniversary, salute. Away from work he was recognised as Prime Minister David Cameron said, “it was Commemorations then return to an authority on Portsmouth Football Club. a day to remember all those who lost their Staffordshire for the dedication of the During the recent travails of the club he lives in the conflict, the members of our Falklands Memorial at the National used his great passion and communication Armed Forces, as well as the Argentinean Arboretum on May 20. The monument, a skills to rally people to the cause of saving personnel who died. Today, we salute the curved wall of rugged stone facing a rock the club from extinction. It was a role that heroism of the Task Force which set sail to from the Falklands and two benches has was recognised not just within the free the islands. been erected thanks to a £62,000 fund- footballing fraternity, but across the wider “We are rightly proud of the role Britain raising drive by SAMA82 which represents community too. Many well-informed played in righting a profound wrong. And the Falkland conflict veterans. people believe that without his various people of the Falkland Islands can be justly Falkland Islanders will hold their annual interventions, the Club would have gone to proud of the prosperous and secure future liberation day ceremony on June 14, while the wall. they have built for their islands since 1982. there’s a service of remembrance at St Paul’s Our thoughts are with his Mum Joy and “Britain remains staunchly committed to Cathedral in London organised by the sons Sam and Nick. He is a great loss to upholding the right of the Falkland Islanders Falklands Families Association on June 16. It was in his two spells as STO(N) in RFA Navy Command but a much greater one to and of the Falkland Islanders alone, to The last major commemorative event Fort George that he really established them. A collection for Tony in aid of Help determine their own future. That was the takes place the following day, June 17, with himself as a progressive and strong leader. for Heroes raised a total of £600. fundamental principle that was at stake 30 the annual service at the Falklands Memorial years ago: and that is the principle which we Chapel in Pangbourne, near Reading. Gunline 12-13_Layout 1 01/05/2012 21:06 Page 12

12 | Gunline | Spring 2012 RFA ASSOCIATION Chairman's Dit

The Chairman’s Dit.Or more increases to postal charges and I think we will ships was the restoration of the teak bridge wing accurately, this chairman’s ultimate dit. As have to revisit the option to use email whenever lifebelt racks. I would have them taken to you will all be aware I will be standing and wherever possible. chippie’s shop and then I would strip them, CONTACT down, after four years, at the forthcoming AGM. John Roddis, chairman of the Scottish and linseed oil them and varnish them back to their Amazingly I have been nearly trampled to death Newcastle branch has decided to hang up his former glory. Mick, like George Mason, would INFORMATION by hordes of members sticking their caps in the spurs at the end of the year after many years of not only tolerate/humour me, often displaying the ring to relieve me and we all know what that first class service to both the RFA and latterly the despairing look a father might give a son, but RFA ASSOCIATION means don’t we? It’s a bit like trying to fill the RFA Association. So we now have another key would make the necessary repairs to the racks, Headquarters places on a mess committee only this time we position soon to become vacant. As with all posts replacing wood as required etc. During these 01833 640045 (This number for RFAA don’t have the luxury of sanctions (ie closing the in the Association it will be open to any fully paid periods in the workshop I got to know Mick well Headquarters is temporary until we bar) until all the places are filled. up member of the Scottish and Newcastle Branch and considered him to be more than a shipmate. are assigned one in Portsmouth.) But enough of me dripping all over you, we who meets the criteria of the Board of Trustees Now these two sad events could have a E-mail: [email protected] have one candidate for Chairman in our current and is acceptable to the membership of the positive outcome. A question I asked some while CHAIRMAN Deputy Chairman, Frank Andrews, and I will Branch. Could you please ‘trample’ me with ago was ‘how do you want to be remembered ?’ Pat Thompson stand down to the post of Deputy Chairman. volunteers this time to fill a unique position so I ask it again, ‘how do you want to be 01833 640045 These changes were approved by the Board of which would allow the successful candidate to remembered’? As you will know I spend quite a 07879 254168 Trustees at a Trustees meeting in February in the set his/her mark on the Branch. If we, as an lot of time posting information of members who Skype Captain.Pat E-mail: [email protected] full expectation that we would struggle to find a Association, are going to go forward, APATHY have ‘Crossed the Bar’ but it is not very often I replacement, as in fact we have, and this decision IS NOT AN OPTION. can recount the life of ex RFAs and wouldn’t it be DEPUTY CHAIRMAN was designed to be reviewed had any other I have already reported the passing of Captain good if I could. Come on Chaps, and Chapesses Frank Andrews members come forward which in fact they John McCloughlin and CPO(Carp) Mike Smailes drop me a potted history and a photograph that 01772 685427 email: [email protected] haven’t. on the website and in the ‘Crossed the Bar’ can be kept on file for future reference. Constitutionally Frank and I will both have to section on these pages but in both cases I feel the I think we are about done here and I have, as ADMIN stand down from the Board of Trustees in two need to mark these sad events in my dit. I never ever, been saving the best until last..... 01833 640045 years time, AGM 2014, which isn’t that far away. sailed with John although I often met him during “And now, the bitter end is near; E-mail: [email protected] Remaining on the topic of the board of his time ashore in ESB (the Madhouse), usually And so I face the final deadlight. MEMBERSHIP trustees Mike day is also standing down at this during ship inspections. He, with a team from My friend, I'll say it clear, Dawn Reay AGM having completed his Constitutional tour HQ, inspected RFA Stromness out in the I'll state my case, of which I'm certain. 07522 551628 of duty. I am sure I speak on behalf of the Mediterranean in 1976. For the MOB drill the (Yeaaaaa, a civil servant certain of something E-mail:[email protected] membership of the RFA Association in thanking Chinese crew had prepared ‘Fred’ from a blue now there’s an oxymoron) TREASURER him for all his efforts on our behalf to the pussers boiler suit stuffed with polystyrene chip I've lived a life that's full . Peter Fry Association as a whole and his many packaging generously provided by the Stonnery I've travelled each and ev'ry SLOC; 02392 524625 contributions to Gunline especially during my lead by (STO(N) Ken Pearn. (Now there’s a But more, much more than this, E-Mail: [email protected] period of office. There are a couple of names in name to conjure with). Fred was so light he I did it ....wait for it...... strictly in accordance SECRETARY & FINANCIAL the melting pot and we will be having discussions would have passed any ENG1, even from the with BR875 Vol44, Section 99 para 3445 sub SECRETARY with them at the next trustees meeting with a most rigourous Doc’ (Arun). All went well until para (iiiii)" Under consideration view to co-opting them onto the board. the Crash Boat crew tried to put Fred alongside I told you I was saving the best until last. The move to Portsmouth was completed very but of course he just bobbed away. Eventually, Colleagues, shipmates, and friends (I would PLYMOUTH BRANCH recently and there is more on our Gunline pages frustrated and after many attempts fed up with never dream of using the rather pejorative term John Halford in this edition on new contact details etc. the whole business the bowman took a boathook, ‘Board of Trade Acquaintances’), I consider 01752 659942 Also the RFA National Memorial Fund is with heaving line attached, and harpooned Fred these last four years have been a privilege for me E-mail: [email protected] doing very well indeed and there is more about so technically whilst the operation was a success but you must remember the RFA Association is SOLENT BRANCH that in these pages. the patient died. On their return to Stromness, an association of old shipmates, colleagues, Brian Waters The yearbook/Members Handbook has John remonstrated with the boat crew who comrades and friends be we retired or still 01722 320562 finally made it, again there is more on these steadfastly refused to be able to speak English. serving. Importantly within the realm of the E-mail: [email protected] pages about that but worthy of comment here are John’s sang froid came to the fore as he retired to Association we are all chaps and chapesses LONDON BRANCH the costs of postage of both the Yearbook and Captain’s (Joe Logan) cabin. Scores on the door, together with the common aim of maintaining the Lt Cdr James Wyatt mailings in general. With some 650 members Chinese Crew - 1....Marine Superintendant - 0. comradeship we enjoyed afloat. Bearing this in Richard Fernley (615 UK based and 35 abroad) ergo 650 I sailed with Mick Smailes a number of times mind, and to preserve this comradeship, we need (Vice Chairman) yearbooks to post out the costs were some £0.92 over the years and always found him to be a members to come forward prepared to donate 07778 780872 per book (UK) which amounts to very nearly gentle and delightful man and his passing, after a some of their time to run HQ, branches, E-mail: [email protected] £560 for UK stamps and £65 overseas. Add some long battle with cancer, must have been a fundraisers and, especially, to offer support to SCOTTISH & NEWCASTLE £40 for envelopes and a figure of around £670 is blessing for him, but it leaves me with a sense of other members who are not perhaps blessed with BRANCH reached. In the case of an AGM mailing, the loss of a good shipmate. Latterly we were the good health that we are fortunate enough to John Roddis same 650 members with the same UK/overseas together in RFA’s Fort Grange and Rosalie and I enjoy and, never to let this wonderful 01786 821379 E-mail: [email protected] split tots up to £220/35 or a total of £255. As used to enjoy my almost daily visits to the organisation, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, that we Cilla would say “ thats a lorra lorra money”. ‘Chippy’s Shop’ at the forward end of the served or are still serving in, fall below the public MIDLANDS BRANCH Couple that to the proposed, and significant, clearway. One of my projects in a number of radar. Pat Thompson John Sail 01476 594034 [email protected] The RFA National Memorial. NORTHWEST Frank Andrews The Royal Fleet Auxiliary National Memorial right". They were on the right track but not as 01722 685427 currently under construction at the National right as their authors thought. They took the line E-mail: [email protected] Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire is now well about the making of a Brad Pitt Zombie movie, Office Address: on course for completion from both the “WWZ" that was filmed, in part, on board RFA The Semaphore Tower construction and financial aspects of the project. Argus in Falmouth. In that respect they were PP70HM Naval Base It is hoped that the memorial will be dedicated in dead right but what they didn't know was that Portsmouth PO1 3LT October (date still to be confirmed) 2012 at a Paramount Films, the parent company for the Mailing Address ceremony to be attended by our Patron, the Earl film makers had agreed to make a MASSIVE PO Box 52 of Wessex. The date of this ceremony is yet to be donation to the memorial. Well the cheque Barnard Castle DL12 2BA confirmed and will be published on our website arrived a week or so ago bringing the fund to well Web Sites: when known. over £30,000. That figure and the expected www.rfa-association.org On the financial side of things the fund is donation from the fleet will cover all the Plymouth Branch looking very strong indeed and any concerns I anticipated costs associated with the memorial www.rfaaplymouth.org might have had about where the money for the and it's ongoing expenses (insurance & project would come from are receeding into maintenance etc) for the period required by the Solent Branch www. history. Royal British Legion. freewebs.com/rfaasolentbranch/ Followers of the website news may remember The place to watch for developments, as they that some time ago I asked the rather arcane happen, is the website: London Branch question viz. "Confused ?????". I received a www.rfa-association.org. www.rfaa-london.org.uk/ couple of replies both of which were "almost Gunline 12-13_Layout 1 01/05/2012 21:06 Page 13

Spring 2012 | 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

THE HEADQUARTERS MOVE The Year Book Hits the Streets

Following the move from Bellingham to Portsmouth the next important questions to be answered are:- After nearly four tortuous years the new What is the new address? What addresses are GUARANTEED NOT How do I contact HQ by phone? Member’s Handbook and Year Book has For the moment please continue to use:- TO WORK The Bellingham HQ phone number finally made it onto the streets. My thanks go RFA Association The old PO Box in Hexham is (01434 220000) is now discontinued. All to Method Publishing, whose offices are in 3-4 Station House So, other phone numbers remain extant Golspie, Sutherland, for their stalwart efforts Bellingham Hexham I say again, including the mobile number 07879 in bringing the production of it together. NE48 2DG SO last year. 254168 OR my home number 01833 Method Publishers have been specialist (That will get you to Dawn via the It is discontinued, 640045. publishers to the MOD for 40 years and I am Royal Mail Redirection Service) It has ceased to be, How do I contact HQ by email? very pleased to have established this OR it has shuffled off this "mortall coile" Nothing has changed the options are :- association with them. It is declared as RFA Association and joined the choir invisibule. Me:- [email protected] 2012–2013. Really there are not enough PO Box 52 IT IS AN EX ADDRESS Dawn:- [email protected] changes to the content to warrant an annual Barnard Castle All other email addresses remain publication and, of course, there is an awful DL12 2BA unchanged but watch the website for future lot of work in getting sponsors to fund the (That will get you to me) developments. production costs. Realistically an annual book is a non starter. So the plan is that the next edition will be out in 2014 and in the interim a ‘Notice to Mariners’, probably an organically produced sheet, will be sent out with any mailings, AGM, etc for you to make corrections to your Handbook. This will contain membership changes and any other information relevant to the membership. A number of pages had to be omitted from this edition to keep size and costs down and one in particular is reproduced here. It indicates

Presentation at Plymouth Chiu Yiu Nam GM Gordon Monks Branch Meeting

the spread of membership in the UK and shows that our membership profile extends virtually from ‘Muckle Flugga to the Bishop Rock and Bridlington to ’, it does not During the Arentinian attack on RFAs Sir At a recent Plymouth Branch Meeting, show the world wide distribution of Galahad and Sir Tristram at Bluff Cove, Mr CPO Steward Charlie Rogers was presented ‘ex–pats’. Not bad at all for a membership of Chiu, a sailor, realised that many Welsh with his retirement gift by Capt Maurice The "Oxford Mail" of 2nd April 2012 around 650.With my tongue still smarting Guards were trapped after the ship was Mann. carried a full page article about Gordon from all the envelope and stamp licking I attacked, but that his detailed knowledge of Charlie served with RFA for 40 years after Monks, our London Branch Standard Bearer have to ask if anybody has not received their the ship and training as a firesuitman gave 3 years commercial. It was Maurice who and his service during the Falklands capaign. copy. So if your doormat is looking him a chance to save lives. Notwithstanding signed him up to a contract long ago. Copyright prevents me from reproducing it decidedly void of the Yearbook please drop the order to abandon ship, he put on his fire here but is can be read on our website at me a line at [email protected] suit and went back into the troop areas. After http://www.rfa- and I will send you a copy post haste. bringing out one man, he returned to save as association.org/cms/index.php?option=com_ many guardsmen as he could find. Several, content&view=article&id=758:gordon- OBITUARIES perhaps 8 or 10, owe their lives to the bravery monks-london-standard-bearer-in-the- of Mr Chiu Yiu Nam. He flew from his home news&catid=2:generalnews&Itemid=7 in Hong Kong to be invested with a wery well Since the last edition of Gunline the deserved George Medal by Her Majesty The following members and ex-RFA non members have sadly "Crossed the Bar" Queen on 26 July 1983. Solent Branch to hold next Reunion Terry Tanner CPO(Deck) Chiu Yiu Nam seen here on the 3 13/12/2011 aged 82 November 2011 attending a reception at the All eyes will be on the Solent Branch next Bob Rose SOG(D) British Consulate to mark the 90th month (May) as the hosts of the 2012 21/01/2012 aged 61 Anniversary of The Royal British Legion. Chiu Yui Nam GM They were delighted that Prince Edward Reunion to be held at the De Vere Grand 14/02/2012 aged 62 (our Patron and Commodore in Chief of the Harbour Hotel on the 19th May. Reports and John Fearns (Engineer) RFA), who was in HK at the time, took time photographs on the website and in the next 22/02/2012 Michael Smailes CPO(Carp) out of his busy schedule to attend the event edition of Gunline.Branch Chairman Brian and was personnally introduced to Mr Chiu. 26/02/2012 aged 64 Mr Chiu was also introduced to Prince Waters and his team have put a lot of work John McLaughlin Captain. 26/03/2012 aged 83 Andrew when he made a visit to us in and effort into the preparations which should Brian Hooper (CPO(Cook) October 2010. turn out to be a terrific evening. 2010 (no more details) Gunline 14-16_Layout 1 01/05/2012 21:06 Page 14

14 | Gunline | Spring 2012

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

The Marine Society is the leading and most Seafarers though, need not despair. The experienced not for profit supporting the well Marine Society has some help available. being, professional development and lifelong MathsatSea is an award-winning learning needs of maritime professionals. e-learning programme distinguished for The London-based charity has encouraged, having been designed and written by enabled and educated many generations of professionals in nautical education. It uses RFA personnel and is a recommended first credible maritime examples which engage point of contact for all matters relating to students, leading them intuitively to apply personal and professional progression. basic yet key maths concepts. It covers The Society works with a range of aspects of algebra, geometry and mainstream education and training providers trigonometry: essential skill sets at nautical to deliver opportunities for personal and college but often not covered at school. professional development that are seafarer- Used in its entirety it comprehensively friendly and focused on the needs of the refreshes the basics; used selectively it individual in the context of the maritime identifies areas of weakness. As a reference sector. resource it can be dipped into as and when It caters for all levels of learning, and required throughout professional training. accommodates all ages, abilities and Maths at Sea is available to all. Visit aspirations. So whether you simply wish to www.mathsatsea.com improve those GCSE grades from school or whether you’re a senior officer seeking Slater scholarship civilian recognized qualifications in Considering career progression? Slater preparation for coming ashore, The Marine scholarships are available to ratings to fund Society will have something to offer. their progress towards first certificate of competency. Degrees @ Sea Marine Society Lifelong Learning Manager Wendy Monaghan (right) and Education Administrator Carla Rockson The fund can be used to help offset the Enrol now for May or Sep 2012 start with the knot board so patiently crafted by grateful RFA student Ryan Palmer. costs of obtaining first OOW through any of Need an academic qualification that opens the UK nautical colleges. In March trustees of doors ashore? currency they deserve without having to reminder that the Marine Society ought to be the Slater Fund increased the value of Can’t afford the time or money to come attend college.’ your first choice to provide first class tutor- individual scholarships to £17k. ashore to study? The Marine Society can look after your supported study programmes. One such beneficiary from the RFA is Ryan The Marine Society offers a seafarer- enrolment and administration. With the The Society will help you achieve the best Palmer. Marine Society also helped him get a friendly pathway to a degree from a UK experts taking care of the paperwork, you’re possible examination result in the shortest GCSE in Maths along the way. So grateful was university without the need to step ashore. free to focus on ramping up your cv with a possible time. As you’d expect, there is full he that at Christmas time he presented us A pathway that has been especially made universally recognised qualification. support for email and telephone, and all staff with a knot board which he made whilst on for seafarers and shore-based maritime The society has worked with Middlesex are familiar with your commitments with the his last trip. professionals - one that has been mapped to University to create these pathways. It RFA. The detail in the knots is remarkable and seafarers’ professional qualifications and believes they offer seafarers a great As a registered exam centre for GCSE and the care and patience involved truly experiential learning and allows academic opportunity. That’s why they’re prepared to A Levels, the Marine Society can enter and magnificent. Thank you, Ryan! credit for them. offer a scholarship to reduce the cost of the register students for their exams and arrange Visit www.marine-society.org to find out Marine Society director Brian Thomas told course even further. for them to take place at sea if necessary. You more or email [email protected] to Gunline: can enrol at any time of the year – so don’t request a free information pack. ‘The Work Based Learning degree courses What’s on offer? delay! at Middlesex University represent a cost- No matter what your age, rank or rate, there’s Contact the Marine Society to find out And don’t forget to check out Facebook: effective opportunity for RFA seafarers a programme for you. more or visit marine-society.org facebook.com/marinesociety and Twitter present and past to gain the academic • Bachelors degree: top-up an HND/FD to an @MarineSociety honours degree Maths at Sea • Masters degree: trade on your Many of us struggle with Maths. It was professional qualifications and recently revealed that 17 million people in the experience to get an academic UK have Maths ability no better than that of masters degree an 11-year old – that’s half the working population. Find out more? Take a look at the programmes on offer. For an overview visit: www.marine-society.org         Each programme is described           in detail and downloadable as a PDF at     www.mdx.ac.uk/marinesociety Alternatively you can contact We've more experience in Working with education and Supporting seafarers is the Marine Society using or the field of distance learning training providers to deliver our strength. telephone 020 7654 7050 and than any other maritime seafarer-focused opportunities sector provider. for quality-assured personal and they’ll send you the information. professional development. Either way you put yourself under no obligation. But this Find out more at: marine-society.org could be a life-changing move for you. And the Marine Society

will support you every step of 202 Lambeth Road the way! London SE1 7JW Telephone 020 7654 7050 GCSE / A Levels Email A charity registered in England and Wales To all who need to improve their [email protected] 313013 and in Scotland SC037808 GCSE and/or A Level grade a Gunline 14-16_Layout 1 01/05/2012 21:06 Page 15

Spring 2012 | Gunline | 15

ANAN INDIANINDIAN OCEANOCEAN Orangeleaf Welcomes RFARFA RENDEZVOUSRENDEZVOUS Fareham College

3/O(E) Dave Swinbanks fields some tough engineering questions from the students in the MCR

By Cadet(X) Jodie Meades average family car to drive around On Tuesday 17 January 2012 whilst the world 8,000 times!! After the Two of the largest ships in the RFA chance for many good friends to alongside in Portland, 15 students presentation the students were Flotilla met in the Indian Ocean, for wave and say hello albeit at 40 from Fareham College visited RFA taken on a tour of the ship where 24 hours to conduct a series of joint metres!” ORANGELEAF to find out more about highlights included visiting the manoeuvres and consecutive RAS The two ships then parted what the RFA has to offer. The ages Bridge and seeing the new WECDIS serials. company and continued on their of the students ranged from 16 to fit; the Engine Room and MCR RFA Fort Victoria, commanded by separate tasking. 18 and all were enrolled in a BTEC where 3/O(E) Swinbanks gave an Captain Shaun Jones and RFA Wave RFA Fort Victoria has been on course studying the Uniformed excellent tour and fielded some Knight, commanded by Captain Chris task on NATO’s Ocean Shield Services. engineering questions; the main Clarke MBE met early on the operation as part of the UK’s The organised programme of deck where the Bosun and deck activities saw the students visit team were deploying the derrick rig various departments around the and then lowered a lifeboat; a quick ship, giving them the opportunity to whiz round the hospital facilities; a ask questions about the different demo of the fire-fighting equipment career paths that were potentially carried which included some of the open to them. 3/O(X) Holloway students trying out an EDBA set for organised the programme for the size and of course ended with a students and following a welcome famous RFA lunch. and safety brief from Ops, the day The students were very began with a presentation by Cadet impressed and were very Meades in the Officer’s Bar about appreciative of the opportunity to the RFA in general and some visit a working ship and fingers statistics about ORANGELEAF herself. crossed we may have an extra Some were astounded to find that application or two to join up out of the ship carries enough fuel for the it!

morning of Dec. 19 under glorious contribution to the counter piracy blue skies and tropical sunshine patrols in the Indian Ocean. In this whilst Wave Knight was replenishing role she has proved to be highly stores to HMS Somerset. effective conducting several After exchanging greetings via successful Pirate Action Group (PAG) signal flags and flashing light, they disruptions. The ship’s traditional then continued on a joint patrol, role is to replenish the stores of stopping briefly to investigate a other vessels in the Coalition fishing dhow returning home with Maritime Force. its catch, until the next morning when Fort Victoria transferred stores Pictures - A variety of stores being trans- to Wave Knight. ferred during a two day handover with Fort Victoria. Fuel pump-over, RAS(S), On completion of the transfer, RAS(A), RAS(Rotor Blades), RAS(2 ton Me- the two ships engaged in close chanical handler), VERTREP, PMC transfer manoeuvre exercises whilst the and Navy 321 (229Flt Lynx Mk8) x-deck embarked Royal Marines boarding evolution. teams practised their boarding drills under the watchful eye of the A student tries out an EDBA for size watched by 3/O(X) James Holloway and CPO(E) Commander Task Group, Capt Gerry George Hay. Northwood from the Royal Navy. Wave Knight performed a high speed pass down the Fort Victoria’s port side, responding to Victoria’s Fost Tanker Stands By flag signal of ‘Merry Xmas’ with her own ‘Happy 2012’. Officers at Portland Coastguard were yacht Starship, communications Captain Jones said:- “It is vital in action in the early hours of were established, relayed via the that we fully utilise these Saturday 7th April amid concerns for Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel opportunities to hone our skills in crew on a yacht off the coast. Orangeleaf, which stood by the replenishment and Officer of the They made broadcasts on VHF yacht. Watch manoeuvres. Operating large radio and enquiries with One of the crew was badly ships in very close proximity is a neighbouring stations after a series seasick and the other was unable to very enjoyable but a hard earned of weak distress alerts were sail the boat alone. Torbay RNLI All skill and it is vital that we train our received at 2.40am. When enough weather lifeboat was sent to help, young officers for the future. The information had been received to and took the vessel in tow into meet also provided a welcome identify the vessel in distress as the Torbay. Gunline 14-16_Layout 1 01/05/2012 21:06 Page 16

16 | Gunline | Spring 2012 COMMODORE IN CHIEF OLYMPIC REVIEW BY SECRETARY VISITS DILIGENCE OF STATE Historic ties with Britain were under launch of Tomahawk missiles in In January Mounts Bay hosted The The Defence Secretary said: community, this summer’s Olympic the spotlight as HM The King and support of the NATO mission to Secretary of State for Defence, the “It is a pleasure to visit Weymouth and Paralympic water sports events the Prime Minister both received protect the Libyan population. Rt. Hon Philip Hammond MP. He today to see the benefits that the will be a great spectacle for Britain TRH The Earl and Countess of Wessex Having been served lunch visited the South West to hear and 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic and the world to enjoy. The Royal in Manama, Bahrain literally ‘fit for Royalty’, a tour of see first-hand how Weymouth is games is bringing to the town and to Navy will form an integral part of the Diligence gave the Earl and Countess already benefiting from London the wider South West region. The security operation around Weymouth the opportunity to meet some of the hosting the 2012 Olympic and Sailing Academy here is without during the Games with HMS Bulwark crew and to see first hand how a RFA Paralympic Games this summer. doubt a world class facility and, and RFA Mounts Bay and a contingent Ship differs from a Royal Navy vessel. Mr Hammond met with a local together with local businesses and of Royal Marines assisting the Dorset Chief Officer Chris Mackenzie RFA MP, Dorset police and port services and the backing of the local Police in securing the area. “ said: “To have our Commander-in- authorities onboard to hear about Chief onboard Diligence is a rare local plans for the Games and to privilege. The ship’s company has discuss security of the Weymouth worked very hard preparing for the Olympic venue. He then visited the visit and I know that they have all Weymouth and Portland National been looking forward to the day Sailing Academy in Dorset where since it was confirmed.” Olympic and Paralympic water sport The popular royal couple visited Whilst touring HMS Triumph The events will take place during the the island state after a two day visit Countess managed to get some 2012 London Games. to Afghanistan where they visited tuition in the use of the submarine’s Mounts Bay will be assisting in their regiments in Nahr-e-Saraj, the periscope and during a tour of the the games where she will provide Role 3 Hospital in Bastion and many missile compartment. accommodation and support to a of the military personnel based in That evening, the British number of the different service who Kandahar. In Bahrain they visited Ambassador to the Kingdom of will be working to ensure the Diligence whilst she was based in Bahrain, HE Mr Iain Lindsay, hosted Olympics are a great success. Bahrain. Commodore-in-Chief of a reception for the royal couple, Whilst in Weymouth, Mr the RFA, Prince Edward and his wife attended by Bahraini officials, Hammond also saw how the 2012 toured Diligence and HMS Triumph servicemen and women based in London Games is inspiring a and received briefs on the United Bahrain and local expatriates. The generation to be more active and Kingdom Maritime Component Ambassador spoke of his admiration creating a sporting legacy by visiting Commander (UKMCC), the Royal of the work the armed forces do in the Weymouth and Portland Navy’s headquarters in the Middle the Middle East and took the National Sailing Academy. The Secretary of State for Defence Boarding Mounts Bay East, and Triumph’s recent opportunity to present awards to contribution to Operation Ellamy off Naval and RAF staff from UKMCC in the coast of Libya where the recognition of their Security and submarine was involved in the Force Protection duties. OCEAN CRUISING CLUB AWARDS

The Ocean Cruising Club – or OCC - is distance cruising in all its forms. awards in a number of different LEADING HAND RAISES THE FLAG an international club of happy Members sail the oceans of the categories. sailors, administered from the UK world and send in detailed reports This year, the RFA was asked to Leading Hand Steward Matt Burton team welcome ceremonies taking and identified by the distinctive and information for the benefit of present the ‘OCC Award of Merit’ to is on Fort Victoria and currently place on the days leading up to the blue and yellow burgee with a other members. It has no premises, Paul and Rachel Chandler, of deployed in the Indian Ocean in opening ceremonies of the Olympic stylized Flying Fish. regarding the oceans of the world Somali pirated fame. Capt Chris support of Royal Navy operations in and Paralympic Games. To qualify for membership you as its clubhouse. However, it enjoys Clarke was duly invited to this the region. Victory ceremonies take place “simply” have to sail no less than visitors’ rights with a number of year’s event and is seen here Matt has been chosen to be a when a medal event finishes; after 1,000nm non-stop, measured along major clubs world-wide. presenting their award. It is quite Flag Raiser at the London Olympics the awarding of medals, the flags of the rhumb line, in a vessel under 70 The Ocean Cruising Club remarkable, that after all their this summer. He was selected the gold, silver and bronze medal- feet. How simple is that!! maintains an active and vibrant terrible experiences, the passion through a Ministry of Defence winning athlete’s countries are Membership is open to anyone network of over 150 Port Officers and love for the sea and for sailing nomination process highlighting raised while the national anthem of still burns as brightly for them those with sporting or operational the country or territory of the today as it did back in late October achievements, or those who are winning athlete is played. 2009 when they were first involved in their local communities. Matt decided to join the RFA kidnapped. We of course wish from the civil service after he spent them well when ‘SS Lynn Rival’ is time on an RFA ship as part of the finally repaired and made ready – Supply & Transport Office (Naval) hopefully this summer when they Department embedded within RFA will again take to the oceans. stores ships. He said: “Serving in the The journal ‘Flying Fish’ is RFA has enabled me to visit many published twice a year, along with a different countries whilst quarterly newsletter and an undertaking a wide variety of electronic e-bulletin, and it has a tasking. Being chosen to be part of Facebook page. Much worthwhile the Olympics will add to one of the information is available for both many fantastic experiences that this members and non-members to He will be part of a team job continues to offer.” review on the website consisting of six flag-bearers and He competed at National level in www.oceancruisingclub.org. This one flag-manager. There will be Judo and represented the country in material includes the archive of the eight Royal Navy teams, nine Army 1998 in Holland. He is now the journal ‘Flying Fish’ since 1991, teams, eight RAF teams and an senior coach in Bath Judo Qwai. He Rachel and Paul Chandler being presented with the OCC Award of Merit by Captain covering first hand experiences of Chris Clarke overall commander who will sit also keeps himself fit onboard with cruisers over most of the navigable centrally with the London 2012 circuits and teaching Judo to the aboard, from skipper or individual worldwide to assist members in waters of the globe. Team Welcome and Victory ship’s company. certified as competent by the their undertakings, and also has a To draw members together, the Ceremonies Team. RFA Fort Victoria is currently skipper. Membership is about what number of Roving Rear OCC organises a number of cruises, Team welcome ceremonies are operating with the Combined the applicant has done rather than Commodores worldwide tasked to rallies and rendezvous in different designed to formally welcome the Maritime Force, a coalition of 25 who he or she is. “fly the flag”. areas of the world: much athletes and team officials to the nations invested in maritime Founded in 1954 by the late Each year an annual awards appreciated and a great place to Games and include the protocol of security operations in the Indian Humphrey Barton, the Ocean ceremony is held where the meet like-minded people. raising flags. There will be over 100 Ocean and Arabian Gulf. Cruising Club exists to promote long- Commodore of the OCC presents Captain Chris Clarke. Gunline 17-20_Layout 1 02/05/2012 17:34 Page 17

Spring 2012 | Gunline | 17

Anything to Declare GOING DOWNUNDER This is your opportunity to feature in Gunline and to promote your talents and skills and to reveal something about yourself that nobody else knows, but THE FINAL CHAPTER should. The information you provide will be for the sole purpose of appearing in the down quietly, the RFA made sure the “Anything to Declare” feature in Gunline Australians new they were taking on the and will not be released by the RFA to any Pomms, and the uniforms donned other source without your written represented various British sporting victories. consent. Completing and signing the The Australian tradition of ‘Movember’ form, which will be widely available and (the recognition of Cancer support every then submitting it via the above means November and now an international charity), will authorise it only to be used in where men can pay to stop shaving, women Gunline. to wear lots of pink, and the money given to Please complete the form in block the ships charity, was also taken on. This capitals and return it to: culminates in some silly shavings to win Intranet: FLEET-CAP AFSUP GUNLINE SO2 prizes for the wildest moustache, biggest Internet: [email protected] growth, and puniest effort, etc. After a short stop for fuel in Cape Town, Postal: 1/O Mark Mundy, Fleet CAP AFSUP, she then arrived a few days early into MP 4-3, NCHQ, Leach Building, Whale Fremantle on 06 December after 5 weeks at Island, Portsmouth PO2 8BY sea. True to the end, the ex-Largs didn’t let You are encouraged to accompany your us down and kept going all the way to article with a photograph of you, Australia, despite efforts to break her with the preferably head and shoulders. many RAN drills and exercised enroute. We look forward to hearing from you and The ship was Commissioned HMAS many thanks for revealing your inner Choules by Minister for Defence Mr Stephen secrets. Smith on 13 December 2011 at Port of Fremantle, Western Australia. The The Commissioning Ceremony, 13 December 2011 Fremantle, Australia. The RFA Advisory Team, from left to Commissioning was attended by the Chief of right: 3/O(E) M Lacy, 1/O(SE) M Mitchell, C/O(X) S Wood, C/O(E) P Greenough, 3/O(E) R Miller, 3/O(E) J Loftus Surname: Walworth (2/O(SE) D Dobson had returned home) Navy Vice Admiral Ray Griggs, AM, CSC, RAN First name: Bill and the Guest of Honour, Mrs Jennifer Hesford Last year whilst sitting quietly in Portsmouth Royal Australian Navy. He was Australia’s last (Claude Choules’ granddaughter), Minister for (and any name by which you are known) NB, Largs Bay was visited by the ship’s Lady living link to those who served in World War Defence Materiel Jason Clare and Rank/Rating: Cdre Sponsor, Lady West accompanied by many One. It is therefore fitting that Largs Bay bears Parliamentary Secretary for Defence David Age: Feels very old VIPs and dignitaries from several countries, as the name Choules to represent the vessel’s Feeney joined the Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Home Town: Langstone well as calls from VIPs in MOD and other links to both the British and Australian Navies. Ray Griggs at the ceremony. The acquisition of interested parties. The numerous visits and The ship carries the L100, this ship will help ensure that the Royal Date joined: 1978 presentations culminated in a conference on 9 reinforcing the link to the centenary of the Australian Navy has the amphibious capability Where serving: RFA HQ February 2011 where the Australian Royal Australian Navy and those who have it needs for operation and humanitarian Present job title and job description Government announced it had been successful served in it throughout our history. In the support in the region for the period leading (in laymen’s terms): Head of the RFA in purchasing the ship, RFA Largs Bay for £65 centenary year of the RAN, it honours all of up to the arrival of the Landing Helicopter Why and when did you join the RFA? million (approximately Aus $100 million). those men and women who, like Claude Dock Ships in 2014 and 2015. I was fed up with VLCCs, in 1998. Nigel Rather than de-storing the ship, Choules, delivered quietly and with great Following her commissioning in Western Jones told me I would get more rugby and negotiations followed to agree what stores dedication, loyal service to the Royal Australia, HMAS Choules then transited to the parties with the RFA. He was right. and equipment were to stay with the ship. Australian Navy. East coast to her home port at Fleet Base East Largs Bay finally slipped from HMNB in Sydney on 21 December. What did you do before joining? Cadet and officer BP Tankers for ten years. Portsmouth on the19 April 2011 for her final With HMAS Choules, the Royal Australian voyage to Falmouth, prior to expiry of her Navy now has the following amphibious What have you always wanted to do but certification. Although a package agreement capability if required to provide humanitarian not yet got round to? was not signed, work started almost and disaster relief during the current cyclone Play drums in a jazz band. immediately before her final RFA refit season: What’s your dream trip? commenced in July last year. The contractual l HMAS Tobruk Fly first class to Dublin for a long weekend, agreement was to complete all certification l SOV Windermere – leased from P&O until watch Bath stuff Leicester in the Heineken and deliver the ship as if it were to be 31 January 2012, with the option to Cup final at the old Lansdowne Road returned to RFA service, before handover to extend to the end of February 2012 ground, celebrate in Temple Bar, fly back the Royal Australian Navy as Australian l HMNZS Canterbury – under Australia’s and take the week off to recover. Defence Force Ship (ADFS) Choules. Commander Australian Fleet, Rear Admiral Steve agreement with New Zealand it would be What’s your most memorable trip? Gilmore, AM, CSC, RAN presents the Australian White Angola in Sir Galahad, great crowd, great An informal service was held onboard Ensign to Commanding Officer, HMAS Choules, made available as part of the joint Pacific- culminating in the lowering of the RFA Ensign Commander John Cowan, CSC, RAN. focused Ready Response Force, subject to ship, important and fulfilling job. and raising of the RAN Ensign at 1200 on 14 any operational requirements in New What do you do to relax? October with the final contract being signed. The ADFS Choules left the UK on the 21 Zealand, and Relax, have you seen my diary?? l After presentations and speeches, the ‘keys’ October for a period of training with FOST A number of Landing Craft, Heavy (LCH). One thing nobody else knows about you? were exchanged between Commanding before departing from Falmouth on 31 Its cargo capacity is the equivalent of the Everyone knows everything, apparently! Officers from Chief Officer(X) Shane Wood to October. The ship went straight into storm Manoora (II), Kanimbla (II) and Tobruk Which destination surprised you most? Commander John Cowan RAN. The RAN crew force winds and battled across the Bay of combined, and 158 personnel will be Leach Building had already completed many of the OEM Biscay and although we may have mentioned embarked in Choules, including a Ships Army training courses, BISC and other RN courses in passing that these ships have a tendency Department. What’s your favourite ship and why? such as FRC and Air 233, and also 3 weeks to roll, that lesson was well and truly stamped A lot has been said of the capabilities of Hard one, it’s all about the people. Fort Vic with VT Flagship, so transfer of responsibility into the Choules’ crew minds. After many the Bay Class, and the role Largs Bay has because she’s a great ship and we had a was relatively seamless. Many of the ship’s sleepless nights and broken equipment, they played since coming into service in 2006, but great deployment, but really Sir Galahad because I stood by her build, she was my systems had been shadowed by the new understand where the term ‘rolling on wet the RAN know they have a good ship and will first command and we went to Angola. crew, and after responsibility shifted to them, grass’ comes from. ensure she continues her valuable the RFA crew then assisted with training and A small team of RFA personnel remained contribution to amphibious and humanitarian Who would you most like to have a beer over seeing in the safe operation of the ship. with the ship, called the RFA Advisory Team, operations. Having assisted with the build with? The ship has been renamed after the who was to support and advise on all matters, and being connected with either the Largs Sisyphus, we’ve got similar terms of former Chief Petty Officer Claude Choules, including procedures, drills, operations and Bay or Lyme Bay since 2005, it is a shame to reference, from my rugby days Steve Smith, Bill Beaumont and Erika, Jim who sadly passed away in May 2011 at the maintenance. Whilst crossing the line, even see her go, but strong ties have been formed Naughtie from Radio 4 and Ernest age of 110. Claude Choules saw service in though Neptune had met all of the RFA crew, with her new crew, who have promised to Shackleton my maritime hero. World War One and World War Two, as a it appeared that we were not exempt as this look after her. member of both the Royal Navy and later the was under a different flag. But not to go C/O Shane Wood Gunline 17-20_Layout 1 02/05/2012 17:34 Page 18

18 | Gunline | Spring 2012

CAPTAIN ROBIN LOCK OBE TAKES There’s Something AN EARLY LUNCH Cooking

Captain Robin Lock OBE retired from modern ‘Logistics and Supply Christmas Dinner Dance and not The Royal Fleet Auxiliary recently competitions. The Company the RFA on 30th March after 38 Officer’ that we know today. As forgetting the RFA Golf Tournament formed an affiliation with the recognises the unique role of the years outstanding and dedicated Head of Tribe, Captain Robin worked all went off without a hitch. Down Worshipful Company of Cooks, RFA to military operations and has service, leaving under VERS in his tirelessly on behalf of his branch, the years, Captain Robin has secured which is the smallest of London’s been keen to strengthen ties with 61st year. Captain Robin joined the constantly seeking further a considerable amount of livery companies with 75 the service in recent years. In RFA in 1974 as an Assistant Purser educational opportunities and sponsorship funding for a plethora Liverymen. The Company is also one recognition of this the Worshipful in RFA ENGADINE at Portland. He securing key ‘logistics’ enabling of projects, events and initiatives of the oldest and can trace its Company have kindly announced went on to serve in all classes of positions ashore for his people. and he has been instrumental in origins back to the 12th Century, the annual sponsorship of two both fund raising as well as profile founded from two guilds of cooks in prizes for two individuals of the raising for the RFA Association medieval London - the Cooks of Logistic Branch in their annual section at the National Arboretum. Eastcheap and the Cooks of Bread awards. The new awards are for During his illustrious RFA career, Street. The Cooks Livery received its outstanding contributions made by Captain Robin was awarded an first charter in 1482, and is now an RFA Chef and Steward across all Order of the British Empire, gained thirty-fifth in the City’s Livery table grades. The inaugural winners of the a Masters Degree in Business of precedence. awards for the period 2011/12 are Administration and was a Fellow of the Chartered Institutes of Personnel Development and Logistics and Transport. Captain Robin was finally dined out at the popular A Bar in Old Portsmouth on Wednesday 28th, attended by an impressive turnout of his White Mafia colleagues, including Commodore Bullock of Logs Div, and was presented with his ‘leavers’ vase by Commodore Bill Walworth at the RFA Management Martin Etwell and Sally Stinchcombe being presented with their awards by Mr Geoffrey Osborne BEM, Master of Worshipful Company of Cooks RFA ship and was to later become There is no doubt that Captain Board the following morning. the first RFA ‘Pusser’ to join the staff Robin was a ‘mover and shaker’ In retirement, Robin hopes to The Company today CPO (Cook) Martin Etwell and of Flag Officer Sea Training at facilitating many RFA events where continue pursuing academic studies, The Company is as vital today as it Stewardess Sally Stinchcombe. The Portland. his tireless and largely unsung focusing on behavioural science and was when it controlled all the detailed award criteria, nomination Hugely respected across the efforts behind the scenes ensured a PhD. We wish him the best of luck catering trade within the ‘Square procedure and award process for ‘maritime logistics’ domain, Captain events such as the Senior Officers and a long and happy retirement in Mile’ and is no longer just an 2012 /13 will be promulgated by Robin was also the ‘daddy’ of the Seminar, the summer barbecue, the the West Country. association of tradesmen in its 1/O (LS) Pat Prunty in the near original sense. Its current future. membership still includes craft THE RFA MEMORIAL CAMPAIGN: TO REMEMBER tradesmen and the Company What is a Livery Company? continues to engage actively with a Livery Companies were established THE PAST AND LOOK TO THE FUTURE broad range of organizations and in the Middle Ages as trade guilds, charities associated with cooking, whose members enjoyed a We are all aware of the RFA’s security and humanitarian support country for over a hundred years. such as the RFA. Thus, the common trade or craft grouped contribution to global maritime that we have delivered for our The RFA has been in the thick of Company’s purpose in modern together into societies for mutual things, supporting and delivering in times has developed to promote protection. These guilds made conflicts, environmental disasters, culinary skills and to contribute as provision for the poor, sick, and RFFAA MEMORIAL CAMPPAAIGN peacekeeping and humanitarian effectively as it can in the pursuit of needy in their communities, as National Arboretum relief. Regrettably, when an integrated society and to be well as promoting the interests undertaking this work we have socially beneficial. The Company has of their crafts, including: TO REMEMBER THE PPAAST AND LOOK TO THE FUTURE suffered casualties and loss of life. three principle roles today: apprenticeship; trade control; The tasks undertaken in the past charitable activity; support to the working conditions and welfare. and in the future, by their very catering trade; and, fellowship to Their members - known as nature carry varying degrees of risk. bring them about. The Company is ‘freemen’ - enjoyed certain rights We have a unique opportunity to also proud to support the City of and privileges both in trade and in remember and contribute to the London. the governance of the City of past and look to the future by London, given that they all donating Ten Pounds towards the New category in the Worshipful qualified for the ‘freedom of the RFA Memorial Fund. Our target is to Company at their annual award City’. The term ‘livery’ referred to purchase a plot at the National ceremony the clothing or uniform worn by Arboretum and build an RFA The Worshipful Company of Cooks freemen to denote their particular memorial. The cost is expected to sponsors a number of catering trade or profession. be of the order of Thirty Thousand awards in both military and civilian Pat Prunty 1/O RFA Pounds, and if we all make a donation we can build a lasting memorial to the memory of those Zooming Off Without a Zimmer RFA seafarers who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The memorial Along with a host of individuals working with some wonderful would also be a tribute to our seeking pastures new Chief Officer individuals across all ranks and Can you make a donation to the RFA Memorial to be built at heritage, reflecting on our past and Andy Harris has decided to take specialities. His thanks go to them the National Memorial Arboretum, Alrreewas, Staffffordshire to looking to the future. early retirement after 37 years all for the many good times. honour the men and women of the RFFAA Servrvice? Please send a cheque for Ten service. Andy said, “I’d like to In closing Andy says, “The All donations no matttter how large or small will be gratefully Pounds or more to the RFA appreciate and gain experience of strength of the RFA is in its se-going received. A donation of £10 or more will assist in the build Association memorial Fund, PO Box terra firma whilst my wife and I can personnel, keep safe and the flat and maintenance of the Memorial. 52, Barnard Castle, County Durham still walk without “Zimmers” and side down. To those ashore DL12 2 BA. Or log onto: www.rfa- enjoy the experience and freedom providing valuable support keep up association.org and make a of my motorbike.” the good work. I wish the whole ILI X AR Making a donation is easyy,, log on to: U Y A

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R R R R R R R R R faring years he had been the your support towards my busking Thank you student of some very talented efforts as you traverse Weymouth fleetgraphicscentre 11/129 Bill Walworth engineers and had the pleasure of will always be gratefully received!” Gunline 17-20_Layout 1 02/05/2012 17:34 Page 19

Spring 2012 | Gunline | 19

THE RETURN OF THE KNIGHT All Revved Off

Wave Knight returned to Portland, never know what each day will protection day and night in the After over 38 years service in the RFA mess members for the handmade Dorset, on Friday 16th March after an bring – other than the unexpected. troubled pirate waters. Wave Knight on 19 December Captain Alan Grant clock crafted by CPO (Carp) Norman 11month operational deployment It is likely to occur and you have got also had a Royal Navy Lynx has retired from the service with his Fisher along with the other gifts east of Suez. to be ready for it. helicopter embarked from 815 Sqn last trip being in Fort Rosalie. presented to me.” The deployment, in support of “The work we do for the RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset. Captain Grant said, “Fort Rosalie “There are too many to name the Royal Navy and coalition allies, maritime community and the Wave Knight steamed 57, 460 is beginning to get a reputation as individually but I would especially focused on logistic supply to support we provide to our miles and replenished 56 warships a retirement ship, but if you could like to thank all of the ship’s warships and maritime security Government and our allies is always and five tankers issuing over 21,000 chose your last ship, you could do no company, friends and family who patrols to protect vital energy appreciated – whether that is cubic metres of diesel fuel and wrong with Rosie. I started as a have supported the charity walk resources flowing in and out of the Junior Engineer Officer in 1973 and undertaken in support of the cancer Arabian Gulf. have many happy memories to take charity, Walk the Walk. The final The ship was regularly involved with me, but then you only amount raised was £2,200 and that in counter-piracy, counter-terrorism, remember the good times!!” was in no small part thanks to those counter-narcotics and people “I would particularly like to thank who undertook the walk with me.” trafficking operations as part of a Capt Phil Hanton, Simon Jordan and If you are in the Glen or Crombie coalition effort from navies and the catering staff, LH Steward Stuart don’t hesitate to get in touch and aircraft worldwide. Cook deserves a specific mention, we can reminisce the good times This work has been vital in for the superb retirement dinner and not so good over a glass of red reassuring the maritime community organised on board for me. I would wine. and deterring potential pirates and also like to thank the Officer’s Mess Wherever you are, I wish you fair smugglers. The ship was prepared President, Bill McGhee and all the winds, calm seas and safe sailing. for any eventuality and trained to conduct evacuation operations, disaster relief and operations following any ‘political strategic shock’. Whilst deployed, Wave Knight KEEPING IT SAFE WITH successfully coordinated and rescued ten sailors from a stricken providing logistic support, 2,000 cubic metres of aviation fuel. NAVYSAFE pleasure craft – the Princess Melissa. reassuring ships on the high seas, RFA Wave Knight has a crew of The vessel had issued a mayday deterring and preventing illegal around 71 RFA officers and ratings As you might expect in a military however we should start to see an distress and was capsizing off the activities such as piracy or simply and Royal Navy personnel onboard. service, members of the Royal Navy, immediate reduction in the number coast of Oman, reported on in this being ready and poised to react to Capt Clarke said: “As ever, none as well as MoD personnel are of avoidable incidents. The basic edition. geopolitical events.’’ of what we have achieved would exposed to risks and hazards. message from this is to keep The ship’s commanding officer The ship briefly accompanied the have been possible without the It was recognised that a new personnel safe, prevent incidents and Captain Chris Clarke said: ‘Whilst it is P&O cruise ships Oriana and Arcadia dedication and professionalism of approach was needed to ensure all discover why accidents happened as always a pleasure to return home, with hundreds of passengers the ship’s company or without the our personnel are kept as safe as opposed to just who is responsible for we shall miss the work and daily excitedly waving flags. A small support of so many families, friends possible, hence the creation of the it. There will always be an element uncertainty that is ever-present permanent Royal Navy presence and working colleagues at home. We Navy Safety Improvement Plan. This of risk in a service lifestyle; the key when operating East of Suez. You was maintained onboard as dedicate this homecoming to them.” initiative covers the entire Royal aim is to manage risks and to only Navy, with the First Sea Lord himself take risks where necessary. spearheading the drive. This ensures NAVYSAFE was launched on 13 that both service and civilian October 2011, you may already personnel involved with the Navy have seen the flyers and posters Strategy and Development Brief Update are given the best safety equipment appearing around ships and possible. establishments. These contain all The Strategy and Development far, nine initial ship visits have been Development work will clarify the Throughout the service, safety the key aspects of NAVYSAFE, team’s main focus over the past few completed and, including the briefs skill sets needed by the RFA at rules have been in place to keep including points of contact. months has been to develop the to courses and staff ashore, about various levels and within each personnel safe. The safety drive, However, if you can’t find them, the new Tailored Schemes of 40% of our personnel have been grade, will focus training to where under the title ‘NAVYSAFE’, has NAVYSAFE site on the defence Complement (TSOC) for all ships and given an insight into the future plan. and when it is needed and provide been implemented, to ensure that intranet has extra information associated Watch and Station Bills, Other areas of work that link into guidance on promotion and in- safety awareness becomes regarding the programme you will capability statements. This work will the TSOC are Rota Appointing, grade advancement requirements. ingrained into normal business. need, including Galaxy notices and lead to a layered scheme of Career Development and Reward. Linked to all of these is the Reward It is expected to take three to four DINs. Any Base or Ship Safety Officer complement that can be adjusted Rota Appointing will appoint Officers and Recognition of the skills people years for Navy Safe to be fully will also have information you may depending upon the capability and Ratings to a ship or group of develop – essential with the integrated into the Royal Navy; need, including a copy of the flyer. required by FLEET. It will remove the ships for two to three years. The growing complexity of the RFA ‘one size fits all’ scenarios and rotas will allow people to plan their Flotilla. Much of this work is in early supernumerary or additional personal lives better and provide development. The MTUs are being appointments to allow the ship to improved continuity of skill sets on kept informed as the work function within the requirements. So board the ships. The Career develops.

Adam Bryce Leaves the Building

Over the last few months there Adam reflected fondly on his time at Foxhill aka the ‘RNSTS Safe have been a number of departures afloat and considered the world tour House’ where an eclectic bunch of from the RFA and the wider civil in Fort George as one of his career hoods past and present attended. service. Last December saw the de highlights. Captain Rupert Drew, pictured with facto STO(N) Chief Adam Bryce take Adam enjoyed a wide and Adam, read out the customary the opportunity of an early “bath” varied career in the world of ‘Valedictory Letter’ that looked back from the MoD and leave the ‘maritime logistics’ from sailing as over the successful Bryce career. organisation under the VERS scheme Deputy Supply Officer in HMS We wish Adam a long and after 38 years service. Norfolk, enjoying a three year enjoyable retirement and he is Many Gunline readers will have overseas posting with the USN in looking forward to spending quality sailed with Adam in either RFA Norfolk, Virginia to undertaking the time with his wife Gwenda and Regent (91-93) or RFA Fort George first Joint Advanced Command and their grandchildren and attending (95-97) or at least certainly have Staff Course at Bracknell in 1997. Easter Road on a more regular basis heard of the legendary STO(N) King. Adam held a ‘retirement’ party to watch his beloved Hibs. Rupert Drew recites Adam Bryce’s valedictory letter Gunline 17-20_Layout 1 02/05/2012 17:35 Page 20

20 | Gunline | Spring 2012

Fort Rosalie Newsletter

It has now been several months since RFA Fort FTRO and humid conditions the steward workboat for the upcoming royal visit. The Rosalie (FTRO) and her crew concluded department; under CPO(S) Peter King did a engineers ensuring that all systems are tight deployment continuation training (DCT) in brilliant job setting up the bar and serving all and serviceable. Plymouth. In that time she has seen a the guests and hosts with drinks and food for Throughout the RFA and especially on turbulent crossing of the Atlantic experiencing the duration of the party. FTRO there has been a big charity fundraising weather upto force 10, a restful festive period The Communication department set the effort for the RFA memorial. Along with in Mayport, Florida and most recently short stage with an array of signal flags on the private donation Fort Rosalie is currently visits to Jamaica and Grenada as well as bulkheads for what turned out to be a great holding a weekly ’100’ club. Each week hosting a royal visit. success for all involved. personnel purchase a number from one-100, Both the deck and comms departments and at the end of the week a draw is held have been hard at work in recent weeks with with a portion of the funds raised going Canapés for the evening some serious ships, husbandry, fighting the towards the RFA memorial fund. weather and sea every step of the way. The plus other UK territories convened periodically deck department is attending to jobs all over to discuss economic, social, political and the ship with equipment ranging from needle security issues throughout the region. guns to bosun’s chairs, concentrating on the This year a ’forum’ social evening took forecastle and the number two RAS pocket for place on board Fort Rosalie and all shipboard departments made special arrangements for this prestigious event. Not least of all the catering and stewarding department. The catering department, with CPO CKs Etwell and Childs at the helm produced hundreds of outstanding canapés for over 150 guests, ranging from sushi to sweets and were a big Costa Mediterranea alongside in Grenada with FTRO hit with the guests and crew alike. Despite hot

Since departing Kingston, Jamaica Fort Rosalie has been fulfilling the commitments as part of her Atlantic Patrol North (APT (N)) Tasking, working in partnership with the US Coastguard in Counter Narcotics trafficking operations. The ship’s presence in the The Hon Karl Hood, Foreign Minister of Grenada Caribbean region has helped deter and reduce the flow of narcotics from production areas in South America to North America, Europe and CO’s Dit around the world. L/H SA Leslie Slaney It’s been a really busy period for many, but Concurrently the crew furiously made fantastically successful. We’re settling in to preparations for an official reception, hosting the forum. While the comms department are Caribbean like well, (“tough for some” I hear delegates from the ’Caribbean Forum’. The giving the monkey island a serious makeover. you say) and looking forward to our next ‘Caribbean Forum’ is a high level delegation The carpentry department has also been hard challenges, which are every bit as exciting as of representatives from fourteen Independent at work, creating the stage and lectern for the those talked about here. Well done James & Caribbean states, the UK Foreign Secretary, presentations, as well as making steps for the David for re-invigorating this. Do log on again three UK Ministers, UK trade & Industry reps CPO Shipwright Billy Ion gangway and reinvigorating the ships soon & read the next edition.

Navy Command Review

The reality of life in the Naval Service is “There is almost constant change, but titles, and the First Sea Lord taking on more still expected to deliver the outputs. But we change – and RFA personnel will be only too the Royal Navy is going to take charge of responsibility for the day to day running of can only do that – and this is CINCFLEET’s intent aware of the way in which the SDSR forced this change process, create the right the Service. Commodore RFA, as ACOS Afloat – if we shift our focus onto changes in the Navy to change both force structure and structures that will deliver for us, and create Support, will become part of the new behaviour. We can’t keep losing numbers manning levels over the next few years. But the most efficient opportunities. But, we Support Directorate under ACNS (Support), without changing our working habits. This is everyone should also be aware of other have to ensure that nothing adversely but - unlike RN surface ships - RFA vessels easier said than done. Challenge red tape. important changes happening to the Service impacts on our priority – the Front Line” will not change the way that they are Challenge bureaucracy. Challenge the things as a result of the same pressures. This month sees the achievement of generated for Operations. that take up a lot of time, but don’t contribute Rear Admiral Tim Fraser leads the RN Initial Operating Capability (IOC) of the new The Admiral doesn’t shy away from a lot to what needs doing.” Defence Reform Implementation team which Navy Command Operating Model, with a acknowledging there have been other change Personnel can read all about the progress was set up to deliver the Navy Command commitment to change the way the Service programmes in the past, but instead points to of the Navy Command Review in RNTM Review, which first emerged as a result of the does its business. As part of IOC, the Navy the benefits of learning lessons from them, 26/12, and further detail on the precise 2010 SDSR. He is honest about the challenges Command organisational structure will be and is clear that change has to happen. “Even changes at IOC is contained in DIN but excited about the opportunities, altered, with many changes of senior officer though we are losing so many people, we are 2012DIN05-014.