Twenty-five sailors were formally welcomed into the Naval family by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal as she took the salute at HMS Raleigh.
Princess Anne was Guest of Honour at the latest Passing Out parade for the newest sailors joining the Fleet – the class of Cunningham 22/32: weapons and marine engineers, warfare specialists, police officers, and a qualified dental nurse.
It’s the first time in six years that The Princess Royal has visited the Torpoint establishment where, among other activities, civilians are turned into sailors before embarking on their professional training.
She met Service, civilian and contractor staff who help deliver and support world-class training, as well as talking to a selection of recruits at various stages of their Royal Navy journey.
Having overcome challenges, both physically and mentally, the recruits spoke about improving individually and collectively, and recognising the importance of teamwork - describing the experience as both rewarding and enjoyable.
“I see The Princess Royal as a role model and an example on how I, as a female in the Royal Navy, can reach the highest ranks” said Recruit Brodrick from Bristol, in the fourth week of her training.
Recruit Whewell, originally from Warrington and in the Rehabilitation Division said, “It made me proud to put on the uniform and fully affirmed my identity in the Royal Navy.”
Princess Anne subsequently took the salute and presented the training prizes and service awards as the families of those passing out looked on.
“It was a real privilege to be on parade in front of The Princess Royal, and it’s hugely rewarding to see these men and women evolve into effective members of the Royal Navy, said Guard Officer Chief Petty Officer Al Lowe.
“All the training staff wish them luck as they start the next phase of specialist training.”
Captain Jane Roe, HMS Raleigh’s Commanding Officer, added: “All Passing Out parades are special, but to have The Princess Royal here was a great honour for all who took part.
“Standing on the parade ground on completion of training is a proud occasion for recruits, instructors and the families and friends watching in the stands. I wish Cunningham 22/32 every success as they embark on the exciting career ahead of them.”
As well as welcoming a new generation of sailors to the Royal Navy, Princess Anne also recognised six senior ratings for – collectively – nearly 200 years’ service.
The sailors, all living in the South West and serving on the training staff at the New Entry Training establishment in Torpoint, Cornwall, have had their outstanding service marked with awards of Clasps to their Long Service and Good Conduct medal and Valedictory Certificates.
Petty Officers Matthew Hocking and Stuart Donaldson both received the first clasp to their Long Service and Good Conduct medals having both clocked up a quarter of a century serving their nation.
And Warrant Officers First Class Ian Bailey and Justin Newbury were presented with second clasps after completing more than 35 years’ service.
“It was an absolute privilege for all of us to receive our awards from The Princess Royal, and an honour to meet her personally and talk to her as she congratulated us on our service,” said Ian.
The Princess Royal also presented two Golden Valedictory Certificates on behalf of the King and the Admiralty Board – signed by the First Sea Lord – to Chief Petty Officer Robert Woolley (37 years in the RN) and Petty Officer Steven Allington (42 years’ service); the latter also received the Long Service Recognition Award, given to the small proportion of personnel who have served for 40 years or more.
