Royal Navy: 14 pictures of HMS Enterprise decommissioning ceremony in Portsmouth

The Devon-based survey vessel was given a heart-warming send off at Portsmouth Naval Base on March 30. Military personnel past and present gathered alongside other invited guests to celebrate HMS Enterprise’s 20 years of service in the Royal Navy.

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Commanding Officer Commander Malcolm McCallum said it was a ‘very poignant day’ and a ‘good show’ was put on for those who served on the vessel. The Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines formed as sailors put themselves in formation and ship sponsor Lady Sally Forbes spoke to sailors.

Reverend Father Victor Dakwan, Royal Navy chaplain of HMS Enterprise, led the hymns and granted HMS Enterprise its final blessing. Her flag was lowered and handed to the ship’s sponsor after the speeches.

CO McCallum said the ‘red carpet’ was laid out for the vessel in Portsmouth and it was a ceremony befitting of HMS Enterprise.

Here are 14 pictures which shows what happened during the decommissioning ceremony.