The King Visits HM Naval Base Clyde to Thank Submariners for Their Service
His Majesty The King recently visited HM Naval Base Clyde, meeting with submariners and their families to express his gratitude for their service to the nation. During the visit to Coulport, part of the base, The King was greeted with a Royal Salute and welcomed by First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key, as well as senior Royal Navy officials.
His Majesty’s visit, his first here as Commander-in-Chief of the British Armed Forces, recognizes the invaluable service of our submariners,” said Commodore Paul Dunn, Commodore of the Submarine Service. Dunn highlighted the Royal Navy’s 55-year streak of Continuous At Sea Deterrence, a mission entrusted to them since 1969. He praised the skill and sacrifices of the submariners and their families who contribute to the UK's defence.
In addition to meeting personnel and their families, The King toured a Vanguard-class submarine, which is part of the UK’s nuclear deterrent force. He was welcomed aboard and shown the Control Room, where he spoke with crew members about their duties. His tour also included the submarine's living quarters, where he met more crew members and signed the visitors' book.
One of the highlights of the visit was The King’s meeting with submariners awarded the prestigious Gold Deterrent Pins. These pins are given to those who have spent significant time patrolling underwater, contributing to the Continuous At Sea Deterrent mission.
Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Longhurst, who was accompanied by his family, reflected on the experience: “Meeting The King with my wife and shipmates today was a truly special moment. It marks the culmination of my 23-year service as a Royal Navy submariner, seven of which have been spent underwater.” He emphasized the visit's recognition of both submariners and the families who support them during their long deployments.
Submariners on patrol often spend extended periods in secret locations, with limited contact with the outside world. One of their few connections to home is the "Family Gram," a 120-word message from loved ones, sent weekly. They also receive vetted news updates and sports results while on duty.
Despite the challenges, submariners find ways to relax between shifts. In their off-hours, they enjoy activities like movie nights, quizzes, and even occasional golf competitions onboard.
The Vanguard-class submarines will be replaced by the Dreadnought-class in the early 2030s. HM Naval Base Clyde is currently undergoing significant investment to prepare for the arrival of the new fleet, which will continue the UK's longest-standing military operation.
Commodore Sharon Malkin, Naval Base Commander Clyde, described the visit as a "tremendous honour" for everyone involved, from serving personnel to civilian workers. She noted that the base has been supporting the UK's Deterrent submarines since 1968, and the collaboration between the Royal Navy, veterans, civil servants, and industry partners ensures the mission will continue to protect the UK and NATO allies for years to come.