The Last Commission:

Homeward Leg

28 November to 4 December1978

Although all the fixed wing aircraft had left, there was one final evolution to be completed before we too could head for home. This was the back RAS of ammunition to RFA REGENT and, no sooner had the aircraft gone, than ammunition began to appear on the flight deck in readiness for the RAS. This took place on the 28^th and 29^th in cold and windy conditions and full marks must go to everyone who took part in ensuring that the whole operation was successfully completed on time

RFA OLWEN rejoined us on the 29^th and when the Sea Kings of 824 Squadron re-embarked they brought the Customs Officials with them, who began their long and searching task immediately, and finally finished clearing us all while we were  off the coast of Cornwall.

As ARK ROYAL approached Gibraltar on the 30^th November, the BBV TV team disembarked with their films of various events which will be used by different TV programmes, and by the afternoon we had passed through the Straits and once more were in the Atlantic Ocean. The swell dominated route home had its high lights with the final MAXI Band Concert in the Upper Hangar starting the ball rolling!! This concert was probably one of the best ever and the Royal Marine Band deserved all the praise and appreciation they received. The Band under Warrant Officer A K Whittall had certainly “done us proud” during the last eight months.

Earlier in the day it was learnt that the ship’s name would live on, when it was announced that the third CAH, Through Deck Cruiser (an aircraft carrier by any other name smells just as sweet!) would take the name ARK ROYAL. Although our ARK ROYAL sees the end of an era, the new ARK ROYAL will play an important role in the next era of naval aviation, as stated by the Admiralty Board:

 “The return  to rest of another Great and Royal Ark marks the end of a glorious period in our naval history, during which we have led the world in naval aviation techniques and efficiency. It also marks the beginning of a new and exciting epoch in which we can continue to demonstrate our determination and ability to remain in the forefront in maritime aviation matters. The Admiralty Board stand dedicated to the provision of organic air power at sea, in our ASW carriers and cruisers and in our destroyers and frigates. The aircraft in the Fleet in the future, fixed and rotary wing, will play a vital part in our National and Alliance capability. It is particularly important therefore that the traditions, professionalism And dedication you have all demonstrated in the ARK ROYAL, Ship’s Company and Squadrons alike, are carried forward into this new era so maintaining the high standards expected of us. To remind the Fleet and future generations of these high standards, it is intended that CAH 03 shall be named ARK ROYAL. Well done and good luck to you all.”

 On Sunday 3^rd December the Ship’s Company had their Christmas Dinner and during the afternoon while in Mounts Bay, 824 Squadron and the SAR Flight completed a shuttle service to Culdrose of men and stores. The SAR Flight returned on board and departed from the flight deck for the last time once the ship was safely secured alongside in Devonport. That evening we were told that our Commanding Officer, Captain E R Anson is to be the next Flag Officer Naval Air Commander in June 1979 and will be confirmed as a Rear Admiral on 7^th January 1980.

Over night Ark remained in the English Channel and before dawn on Monday 4^th December we were heading for Plymouth Breakwater with the knowledge tat for once the weather would not prevent us going up harbour. Once inside the ship’s company manned the ships’ side for Procedure Alpha and as dawn broke the tugs arrived to escort us to our berth. As usual the manoeuvring care and precision were much in evidence as the mighty Ark moved up the Hamoaze with her 450 ft Paying Off Penant fluttering in the light breeze. The various vantage points were lined with spectators and on several occasions we broke with naval tradition and the order came to wave back to the waving crowds. Many signals were received welcoming us home and the ships on the dockyard outer walls manned their sides as we passed followed by an increasing number of tiny ships and tugs.

As HMS ARK ROYAL approached her berth, thousands of wives, children and sweethearts were patiently waiting to be re-united with their menfolk at the end of this deployment. At 0850 the order to ring off was given by Captain Anson and back came the reply “Engines Rung Off for the last time, Sir”.

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