The Queen attends the decommissioning ceremony of HMS Ocean
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Her Majesty is Lady Sponsor of the ‘Mighty O’ which has completed two decades of military service.
The Queen today attended the decommissioning ceremony for the Royal Naval helicopter carrier, HMS Ocean.
Held at Her Majesty’s Naval Base Devonport in Plymouth, the decommissioning ceremony was a chance to mark the incredible 20 years service of HMS Ocean.
HMS Ocean, or the 'Mighty O' as she is known throughout the Fleet has been involved in operations off Sierra Leone in 2000, Iraq in 2003, Libya in 2011, and, most recently she carried out humanitarian operations in the Caribbean following the disastrous affects of Hurricane Irma.
On Her Majesty’s arrival to the naval base, The Royal Navy held a 21 Gun Salute. The Queen was then greeted by Captain Robert Pedre, Commanding Officer, who presented Admiral Sir Philip Jones, First Sea Lord, and Commodore Ian Shipperly, the Naval Base Commander.
After watching the decommissioning ceremony, The Queen said a few words to mark the end of HMS Ocean’s time in service.
With three generations of naval officers in my family, I recognise the significant demands that have been placed on all those who have served in the Ship over the last two decades, as well as the contribution of their families and loved ones.
Later The Queen spent time meeting HMS Ocean crew and their families, before departing.
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