UK: Portsmouth Based Type 23 Frigate Celebrates 20th Anniversary

Portsmouth based Type 23 Frigate HMS Richmond is celebrating the 20th Anniversary of her launch by welcoming back on board guests that have played a significant role in her life so far.

The ships company were proud to welcome on board their sponsor, Lady Hill-Norton who launched the ship at Swan Hunter Shipbuilders back in 1993.

Lady Hill-Norton and her husband, Vice Admiral The Honourable Sir Nicholas Hill-Norton KCB were keen to see how the ships capabilities had been enhanced following her comprehensive upgrade in Devonport last year.

They toured the ship to witness her transformation since launch, met some of the ships company and heard how they were preparing to deploy later this year.

HMS Richmond’s Commanding Officer, Commander Robert Pedre commented,

“Lady Hill-Norton has maintained a strong connection with HMS Richmond since her first visit, having met every Commanding Officer to date.

“It is a great honour to host our sponsor as part of our 20th Anniversary celebrations and I very much look forward to welcoming Lady Hill-Norton onboard again in the near future.”

Seven of the ten Commanding Officers to have served on HMS Richmond also gathered for an anniversary dinner on board to celebrate the ships years of dedicated service.

HMS Richmond is currently in the middle of a comprehensive maintenance period in her home port of Portsmouth in preparation for deploying on operations later this year.

[mappress]
Press Release, June 19, 2013; Image: Royal Navy