HMS Ark Royal

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  Ark Royal Memories - John  
   

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    why not send in your memories?  
       
    John  
    Sent in: 7 February 2008  
       
   
Hello shipmates, especially everyone from 4v1 Mess.
I remember this old girl with very fond memories. I had the lucky privilege of serving on H.M.S. Ark Royal (R09) twice.
The first time was when I was with 892 Squadron,  11-1-72 to 30-9-74.
Then as part of her crew from: 5-4-75 to 31-3-78.
 
I remember the BBC being onboard to make the series "Sailing" in 1976.
I was only on this once, and I remember it well. It was the last night ashore before sailing and I was making my way down the gangway, well under the influence from the fine ale houses of Plymouth. Especially the Prince Albert, a fine pub :-)
 
Making my way carefully down the gangway - with the Officer's voice shouting "Duck, duck, duck"  -  I never did see that duck?  Reaching the ships deck without any misfortune, I obeyed the command from the officer who wanted to see my I.D. Card. The  I noticed that the BBC had been filming my progress down the gangway etc.
I gave a huge smile and a "Hello Mum" (sounds so corny now) and proceeded to my bunk in 4v1 Mess :-)
 
It seems so long ago now... 28 years.
I made some great mates whilst serving on The Big A, both with 892 Squadron and whilst serving as part of her crew.
 
It was a sad day when she was towed away for scrap.
It would have been a fitting end to such a fine ship if they had simply taken her out to sea and scuttled her, she deserved at least an honourable end to her spotless service.

Gone but never forgotten.

 

 

  
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