HMS Diamond has conducted a Families’ Day alongside in Portsmouth to allow ship’s company to showcase their ship to their loved ones prior to deployment in 2014.
Two hundred and thirty family and friends experienced a busy day on board; several stances were put together by members of the ship’s company.
There were fire fighting demonstrations, during which ET(ME) Tom Fields’ dancing acted as a very convincing fire, as well the chance to dress up as a fire-fighter, and there was a flooding damage control display.
The seamanship team had line throwing and knot tying as well as a seaboat demonstration.
The gunnery sub-department had a large display of weapons which was very popular and sickbay and the medical team opened their compartments up to demonstrate the high end facilities they have on board.
As well as these there was a brief to families about why the Ship is deploying and there was the chance for people to talk to several charities, NFF, NPFS, RBL Women’s Section and RNRMC which show continued and valuable support to RN families and friends, especially when their loved ones are away.
Added to all these fantastic experiences there was a magician and face painter funded by the RNRMC as well as the opportunity for guests to buy memorabilia from Diamond Enterprises.
A RN photographer was on hand all day to take photos of the Ship’s Company, in particular focussing on sailors and their mothers, the focus for this year’s RBL campaign.
Commander Andy Ingham Royal Navy, Diamond’s Commanding Officer, said,
“Today has been a fantastic opportunity for Diamond to show our family and friends what we are all about and how we go about our business.
“Support from our loved ones should not be under estimated and hopefully they have all gained a lot from visiting us today and had an enjoyable time.”
An enjoyable day was had by all and it went a long way to emphasising that the RN could not do our work, protecting the Nation’s interests, without the ever present, strong and irreplaceable support of our families and friends and for that we say a big Thank You.
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Royal Navy, November 8, 2013