A Special Ceremony at Devonport

To commemorate her new role, Camilla was presented with a burgee (a ceremonial pennant) by Rear Admiral Andy Perks, head of the Submarine Service. The custom pennant was a token of appreciation for her ongoing support for the Naval Service.

During her 90-minute visit, the Queen took part in a ceremony by the water to mark the end of the first chapter in HMS Astute’s career. She met with submariners and their families to talk about life in service and the sacrifices made by loved ones back home.

Heartfelt Words from the Crew

Executive Officer Lieutenant Commander Will Dobson reflected on the significance of the visit: “We have done multiple operations around the world, so today means everything – that bit of recognition, not for us, but for our families.”

He continued: “Our families have a much harder time when we are away than we do. We are doing what we love, what we signed up to do. So for them to meet The Queen and be recognised, it’s really special.”

Chief Petty Officer Stuart ‘Splash’ Ashdown added: “It’s nice to come full circle – and meet the Queen again. She is constantly in touch, sending letters, Christmas cards and the like when we’re away.

“For the crew, today is an important event. Every member of HMS Astute’s crew has put a lot of work in over the past 15 years, but the current crew especially, to keep her at sea and provide an operational platform.”