Christmas Passing Out

 Dartmouth as they prepared for the Passing-out Parade which marks the completion of their Initial Officer Training. Much to the delight of everyone involved the wind and rain predominately held off on the morning of the parade ensuring a memorable day for all.

The Guest of Honour and saluting officer was Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope, The First Sea Lord. When he addressed the parade he spoke of the vital love and support of family and friends to everyone within the Armed Forces of all countries. He advised the officers on parade to always be professional, courageous and proud of their work and the Royal Navy and congratulated them on the high hurdle they had cleared completing the first stage of their training.

There were over 300 personnel on the parade of which 142 were passing-out. In addition to the Royal Navy there were twelve other nations represented and 15 cadets of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Providing the stirring and seasonal music were the Plymouth Royal Marine Band under the direction of Captain Richard Lane.