Shipmates,
12 members of the branch were amongst a congregation of over 30 who attended the HMS Illustrious Liberty Boat Disaster Remembrance Service on Saturday 17th October 2026 at 11am in Portland Marina.
Everyone met to commemorate the disaster which happened 78 years ago in which 29 lives were lost. The service was led by RNA Area 4 Chaplain, Rev’d Martin Kirkbride and members remembered the acts of heroism and bravery embodied in the attempts to save those who perished and the constant dangers faced by all who “go down to the sea in ships and do business upon the great waters”. This Memorial will continue to preserve the memory of those who lost their lives that night, and be a reminder of the great debt owed by a maritime nation to its countless seafarers, especially those of the Royal Navy.
More images in the Gallery.
