For me the saddest thing about the
In a way it's quite pleasing that just as the Navy over the years has to a certain extent, er, weathered the storms of modernisation, so the Sea Scouts have seemingly changed less than their land-based brothers. There's a list of the Sea Scout groups officially recognised by the Navy here. The pic above is from the website of the Southbourne Sea Scouts. (There's a pic of a trad Sea Scout group here.)
The Navy has a nice story about the Southbourne Scouts' visit onboard HMS Endurance (the Navy's Antarctic patrol ship, named after Shackleton's ship) in late September last year on its website.
For some it had was the first time they had ever been on board a Royal Navy ship, and there were definite nervous excitement as the 50 strong 1st Southbourne Sea Scouts arrived at the gangway. HMS Endurance is currently in dry dock undergoing essential maintenance prior to her extended deployment later this year, and this immediately caused confusion to some of the younger scouts. “ Has your ship got a puncture?” was one of the first questions asked. After the compulsory health and safety brief, the scouts were split into small groups and given a tour by members of the Ship’s Company, who were very impressed with the Scout’s knowledge of both Endurance and the RN. Being asked about the ship’s displacement by a 6 year old is very encouraging for potential sailors of tomorrow. The highlight of the tour was obviously the bridge and Captain’s chair, and standing on the bridge roof to see where Her Majesty had stood for the Fleet review, but they were also impressed by the selection of Playstation games available in the Wardroom.
Their visit ended with all the scouts taking part in the ceremony of Sunset, coming to attention in divisions and saluting as the ensign was lowered from the main mast. It was a fitting and unforgettable end to a visit that will be remembered by both the Ship’s Company and the Scouts.
