Type 45 destroyer HMS Dragon arrived in Cardiff on 14 May, 2014 for a 5-day visit. The 152-metre-long ship was greeted in its adoptive city with a warm welcome.
HMS Dragon will have the honour of receiving the Freedom of the City of Cardiff on Sunday, 18 May. To mark the occasion, the ship’s company will lead a 190-strong parade through Cardiff, from 11am on Sunday.
Prior to that, various events are set to take place on board Dragon during the ship’s time in Cardiff. There will be organised tours for local schools and colleges, a capability demonstration for civil dignitaries, and a chance for members of the public to step aboard one of the most advanced warships in the world.
Lieutenant Commander Richard Harris, the ship’s weapon engineer officer, grew up in Cwmbran, north east of Cardiff. He said:
“It’s great to be visiting Cardiff. The city has changed loads since I was growing up. Dragon is Cardiff’s ship, so it’s all the more special.”
[mappress] Press Release, May 16, 2014; Image: UK MoD