News - 2014

14:44 Tuesday 5 Aug 2014 Sue Pelling/CWLRoyal Navy on command in The Solent

Royal Navy patrol vessel HMS Mersey during the Royal Yacht Squadron sail past – photo Rick Tomlinson

The military presence at Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week to mark the 100^th anniversary of the day the first shot at sea was fired, serves as a poignant reminder of the many great people who served in defence of the nation.

A one-minute silence was observed at 1000 while the Royal Naval patrol vessel HMS Mersey graced the fleet with a sail past the Royal Yacht Squadron.

Lt Cdr David Gillett RN, Commanding Officer of HMS Mersey, said he was delighted to have such a significant involvement with Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week.

“We are usually on marine enforcement patrol around the coast of the United Kingdom but we’re here at Cowes for the commemorations of World War 1, and specifically for the gun that was fired on 5 August 1914.

“We have huge pride in the event and pleased to be here. We take our history very seriously. On the first day of World War 1 the team were ready to fight, as we are today, so, to be part of this is incredibly special.”