Sailors undergoing training in HMS Raleigh, along with staff, celebrated Commonwealth Day on Monday, with the establishment marking the day by conducting “dress ship”.

Utilising a newly installed main mast, Recruits and staff gathered to mark Commonwealth Day, echoing the events happening around the country. The main mast, reaching 24.6m into the sky and installed in December 2022, allowed HMS Raleigh to carry out the ceremonial tradition of dress ship, where flags and pennants are worn from the masthead during the hours when the White Ensign is flown.

Able Seamen Travis Ryan and Silvannas McKenzie, both trainee Chefs from St Vincent, were proud to be able to recognise the connection between their home and the Royal Navy. “It gives us a sense of unity and it is a privilege and honour to serve His Majesty the King in the Royal Navy” said Travis. Recruit Cody Rounce, a trainee Mine Warfare specialist with Canadian citizenship, said “The Royal Navy will give me the chance to travel and have adventures, and I hope to be able to visit Canada in a ship on day, where I know the sense of belonging to the Commonwealth runs strongly.” Trainee submariner Recruit Ade Oladokun was pleased to be associated with the Commonwealth heritage stating “I have family from Senegal and Nigeria, and I know they see me as having the opportunity to make their countries proud by representing them as Commonwealth members in this new career.”

Joining them was Petty Officer Mo Samuel-George, one of the Phase One instructors at HMS Raleigh. “I have served in the Royal Navy since 2006 and have always felt great pride in representing my home country within the Royal Navy.” Looking back at her long service she added “Diversity is celebrated in the Royal Navy - by having sailors joining from all countries in the Commonwealth, we are stronger with their unique skills and cultures onboard.”

Commander Sea Brady, the head of the Executive Department in HMS Raleigh was delighted to see the mainmast in full use. “It’s the first time in 9 years we have been able to properly celebrate Commonwealth Day and it is a splendid sight to see HMS Raleigh dressed.”