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Royal Navy sailors return en masse to Caribbean for unique thank-you to their homeland
22 October 2024
Forty sailors have returned to their home islands in the Caribbean for an emotional ten-day thank-you for its continued support for the Royal Navy.
They will take part in ceremonial events, join islanders in public and private events and above all reunite with their families as St Vincent and the Grenadines celebrates 45 years of independence from the UK.
The islands, sandwiched between St Lucia to the north and Grenada to the south, have a population half the size of Portsmouth.
Despite that, around one in every 175 citizens – over 600 men and women – have volunteered to serve in the Royal Navy, making the Commonwealth country’s commitment to the Senior Service pretty much unmatched.
It also means nearly every family in the small nation – most of the inhabitants are concentrated on the main island of St Vincent – either has a relative serving in the Royal Navy, or knows someone who’s a sailor.
But unless they’re fortunate enough to be assigned to the Royal Navy’s patrol ship in the Caribbean (currently HMS Medway, with a crew of just 50), chances for serving Vincentians to return home are fairly limited.
It’s a lengthy and expensive flight back home – and even more so if family want to come to the UK to visit loved ones and see their ships.
So as a ‘thank you’ to the islands and some of those personnel for their ongoing support, the Royal Navy along with the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity are sharing the cost of the ten-day return 50-50.
During the visit, the sailors will call on schools, get involved in community projects, support beach cleans, take part in 45th anniversary celebrations of independence from the UK on October 27 - focused in the capital Kingstown with parades and public events – and most importantly reunite with families.
Able Seamen Ronasha Maingot and Telson Goodgie both joined the Royal Navy last year and serve as writers – clerks/admin assistants – at HMS Nelson in Portsmouth.
Telson signed up for the Navy “with the hopes of being a part of something greater than myself and since then, I have done just that.
“One of my proudest moments was my passing out parade so it brings me immense pride to be able to return to my homeland representing the Royal Navy. I hope to be able to share my experience with my peers.”
Ronasha added: “I am especially excited and honoured to represent the Royal Navy while participating in the 45th Independence celebrations of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This opportunity to serve my country in this capacity fills me with pride, and it is a privilege to give back to the nation that has supported me on this remarkable journey.”
The cost/time/distances separating Vincentian personnel from loved ones means unlike many of their shipmates, family members have missed out on many of the milestone moments in a sailor’s career: passing out parades, award ceremonies, family events.
Leading Steward Andria Antrobus was hailed the best student in training at HMS Raleigh 11 years ago – “one of the biggest highlights of my career”.
She continued: “However, it was a bittersweet experience as my family could not be there to celebrate my accomplishments. This is the perfect opportunity for them to see me in my uniform as a proud sailor in the Royal Navy.”
Petty Officer Alexis Jones, a chef based in Plymouth, watched independence events growing up and is brimming with pride at the opportunity now to parade in front of his family and fellow countrymen.
“Being able to participate in them myself, whilst representing the Royal Navy feels incredibly special,” he said.
“It is a special time to experience the island's rich culture, vibrant celebrations, and deep sense of national pride.
“It is a profound connection to my roots and the vibrant culture, making this experience even more meaningful.”
Anne Carr, Head of Grants at RNRMC, said the charity was only too glad to support the sailors’ return home.
“We believe in the power of such initiatives to bring people together, reinforce connections, and remind our personnel that they are never far from home, no matter where their service takes them.
"In the wake of Hurricane Beryl's impact on Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada, this visit is more vital than ever, offering a message of solidarity and hope to the wider community with a vital helping hand.”