Three Royal Navy submariners have been recognised for the excellence of their work and behaviour.
Chief Petty Officer Darren Ward, Petty Officer David Dugmore and Petty Officer Garry Anderson have each been awarded a good conduct and long service award (15 years) at a ceremony in HM Naval Base Devonport.
Captain Scott Bower, commander of the submarine flotilla in Devonport, presented the medals. He praised the recipients and said they were examples of the very best Naval personnel serving their country.
David started his naval career as a chef and then transferred to the medical branch and trained as a medic.
He said: “I found it rewarding administering first aid when needed, as part of my duties, so I decided to branch-transfer to become a trained medic which is a very interesting career.
“I am very proud of this award, as is my family.
“It‘s good to be back in Plymouth with my family, especially as I was in Faslane for a few years with submarines, but HMS Vanguard is now in Plymouth.’’
Garry Anderson is a engineer and one of the highlights of his career was witnessing the test-firing of Trident missiles in US waters.
He lives with his girlfriend Kathleen and originates from the Wirral. He is described as a conscientious, methodical and trustworthy senior rating.
Darren began his career on board the warship HMS Sutherland which included visits in the Caribbean.
He then qualified as a submariner and served in Plymouth-based HMS Torbay. He then moved to HMS Vanguard where he has been since 2008.
He is said to be respected by his colleagues at all levels and a loyal dedicated and highly professional sailor.
He lives with his partner Linda and children Dexter and Colby. Darren said: “This award is a good achievement and my family are pleased for me.’’
