Just thought I'd drop by to thank the crew of HMS Bulwark for their hospitality while i was onboard.
I was one of several Royal Irish Regiment soldiers who joined the ship in Barcelona for a "jolly" on its return sail to the UK. As we all know the ship had to be diverted to Beirut to take part in the NEO. We were offered the opportunity to leave but decided to stay onboard to do what we could alongside the crew and help the EP's. After Phase one of the NEO, Bulwark was further tasked, and myself and the rest of the RIR guys along with some crew flew back to the UK to continue with our own roles.
I'd like to thank everybody on board for making us so welcome. Myself and my colleagues had an amazing time and the experience will always be remembered. I know we knock the Navy from time to time but i was impressed by the professionalism and efficiency of the ships crew, even when they had received the news of being retasked for Beirut. We really felt for them when they received the news, especially when they were so close to home. Leaving the ship as we did i felt guilty that one of the crew couldnt take my place to get home for well deserved leave. Sadly, as a soldier i was unemployable on the ship and this was not possible.
I hope the crew get home soon to see their families, and I would like to wish them well for the future. Everything they did for us was much appreciated, and i can't thank them enough. Godspeed for your return journey home Bulwark.....and thanks again.
I was one of several Royal Irish Regiment soldiers who joined the ship in Barcelona for a "jolly" on its return sail to the UK. As we all know the ship had to be diverted to Beirut to take part in the NEO. We were offered the opportunity to leave but decided to stay onboard to do what we could alongside the crew and help the EP's. After Phase one of the NEO, Bulwark was further tasked, and myself and the rest of the RIR guys along with some crew flew back to the UK to continue with our own roles.
I'd like to thank everybody on board for making us so welcome. Myself and my colleagues had an amazing time and the experience will always be remembered. I know we knock the Navy from time to time but i was impressed by the professionalism and efficiency of the ships crew, even when they had received the news of being retasked for Beirut. We really felt for them when they received the news, especially when they were so close to home. Leaving the ship as we did i felt guilty that one of the crew couldnt take my place to get home for well deserved leave. Sadly, as a soldier i was unemployable on the ship and this was not possible.
I hope the crew get home soon to see their families, and I would like to wish them well for the future. Everything they did for us was much appreciated, and i can't thank them enough. Godspeed for your return journey home Bulwark.....and thanks again.