PASSING IN SPEECH

Colonel Linton Graham, Jamaica Defence Force Defence Advisor in London, address to the ‘Passing In Parade’ for graduates of HMS Raleigh in October 2004. 

Commandant, Ladies and gentlemen and most especially the Passing In students on parade today. Indeed it is a great honour and a privilege for me to be your Reviewing Officer, and to share this special occasion with you. As an infantry officer I am very much impressed. May I therefore take this opportunity to congratulate you publicly on your immaculate turnout, and ceremonial along with the very high standard of drill achieved in just a few months, after such a demanding and intensive course which took a great deal of personal effort and determination.

The Royal Navy has had a very long and illustrious history. Today most importantly you have marked this moment in history in fine style bearing in mind that only just yesterday your Royal Navy commemorated the 199 Th Anniversary of Nelson’s glorious victory at Trafalgar. You should feel proud therefore to know that as a result of this auspicious occasion in history, you are now part of the best Navy in the world. I am sure you will continue this noble tradition.

I must say that you are at the very beginning of what I hope is an exciting and rewarding career and one in which with your continued determination, will have excellent prospects. Having learnt the basics of naval life you should realise that throughout your career you will continue to understand the importance of what you have learnt here at HMS Raleigh. I implore you to work hard in maintaining them and continue to be proud of all they represent. 

You have heard and will continue to hear much about the importance of technology in the modern battlefield, about equipment, about deployment and about threats. In the long run no navy, army or air-force can achieve anything without people. This is where you can and will play your part as the training received here at HMS Raleigh have certainly prepared you for your future role as part of the naval team. You will be called upon to support your Government at home and resolve civil strife abroad, support humanitarian relief world-wide and of course engage in combat operations should that be required. In short, you are joining a fighting service. The years ahead may well come to test your determination, ability and courage. However, you have committed yourself to defending your Nation and its interests, and to serve as a force for good in the world.

It is very encouraging indeed to see so many families and friends here today to share in your Passing In. I would like to thank you all for coming. Today must be an immensely proud occasion for you all. I know that your support of these fine men and women is very important to them now as it will be in the future as they move out into the Fleet. 

Finally I would like to express thanks on your behalf to the Training Staff at HMS Raleigh who see the culmination of their considerable efforts here today. You can feel justly proud of your achievements and I know that everyone here, trainees and their families and friends, will want to express their appreciation for what you have done. Take pride in your service. Enjoy your careers and I wish you every success and happiness in the future. Following seas.