Prince Charles presents Duke of Gloucester Cup

His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales today presented the Duke of Gloucester’s Cup to the crew of Hydrographic Ship (HS) Blue Crew at HMAS Cairns.

CAPTION: HRH Prince Charles with the winners of the Duke Gloucester’s Cup for 2017, Hydrographic Ship Blue Crew on the flight deck of HMAS Leeuwin in Cairns. Photo by Petty Officer Phil Cullinan.

Duke of Gloucester’s Cup is awarded annually to the Royal Australian Navy unit that has demonstrated the highest level of overall proficiency in the previous year and is customarily presented by the Governor-General.

As the winner of the Duke of Gloucester’s Cup for 2017, Hydrographic Ship Blue Crew had the rare honour of receiving this significant award from The Prince of Wales.

Commander Australian Fleet Rear Admiral Jonathan Mead said the perpetual trophy recognised exemplary performance.

“The Duke of Gloucester’s Cup has a rich 71-year history as the highest annual award for outstanding service to the Royal Australian Navy,” Rear Admiral Mead said.

“HS Blue Crew has succeeded in all respects in 2017 and can be justifiably proud of their achievements and for being the first hydrographic unit to win this prestigious award.”

HS Blue Crew was awarded the prize for consistent high performance in her core operational and hydrographic mission, successful integration into Exercise Talisman Sabre 17 and the rapid and effective support to an allied partner during the search and subsequent recovery operations of a downed military aircraft.

Blue Crew’s Commanding Officer Lieutenant Commander Dean Battilana said winning the Duke of Gloucester’s Cup capped off a busy and successful year for the ship’s company.

“We are honoured to be rewarded for our efforts – and to receive the Duke of Gloucester’s Cup from His Royal Highness makes it even more special,” Lieutenant Commander Battilana said.

“Blue Crew has delivered on everything that I and higher command has asked and more.

“This award is a testament to the ship’s company’s knowledge, skills and dedication to duty.”

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