The behind-the-scenes role of civilians and military personnel to deliver victory in the Falklands 40 years ago has been recognised in Faslane.
Clyde Naval Base became the latest establishment to unveil a plaque acknowledging not just personnel from Faslane who fought in the South Atlantic in 1982, but those who prepared ships and submarines for the rigours of the unexpected campaign to liberate the Falklands.
Staff were joined by veterans and local dignitaries to recognise the Naval Base’s contribution, remember those who served and commemorate those who did not return to the UK.
Guest of honour was Vice Admiral Sir Tim McClement, former Deputy Commander-in-Chief Fleet and who served as Executive Officer of hunter-killer HMS Conqueror, which returned to Faslane after her mission in the Falklands was complete.
He laid a wreath during a service of commemoration in the naval base church, before unveiling a commemorative plaque in Faslane’s ‘Supermess’ Complex.
The mounting of plaques at each base, dockyard and port involved in supporting the Operation Corporate armada is the result of a campaign by Falklands’/HMS Hermes veteran Andrew Cave.
The Clyde plaque was created by a team from Babcock Marine, including Neil Watson, Graham Sanders and Tom Peters, another Falklands’ veteran who served in Clyde-based submarine HMS Valiant. Two small artefacts from HMS Conqueror were also unveiled.
“Often overlooked in the story of the conflict, it is extremely fitting that we remember the pride, patriotism and dedication of the Naval Base staff who worked tirelessly to generate the units and personnel who would travel south from the Clyde and play such a significant role in the campaign to retake the Islands,” said Naval Base Commander Commodore Bob Anstey.
Speaking on behalf of the team who delivered the plaque, Neil Watson of Babcock, said that it was a “fantastic event, well attended and was heart-warming to see a good turnout of Falklands veterans to see the unveiling of the plaque.
“It was a true honour and privilege to be asked to support this project and a special moment to see Vice Admiral McClement unveil our work and everyone’s response. “Many thanks to Andrew Cave for working so hard to ensure the recognition of the dockyard as well as those who risked everything in service of the people of the Falkland Islands in 1982.”
