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HMS Dumbarton Castle displays her Paying Off Pennant as she enters Portsmouth Harbour
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HMS Dumbarton Castle displays her Paying Off Pennant as she enters Portsmouth Harbour
Veteran Royal Navy warship HMS Dumbarton Castle flys her Paying Off Pennant as she returns to her Portsmouth home for the last time before retiring from service.
The patrol vessel, which joined the fleet in 1982, sailed into the Naval Base today (22/11) after completing her last deployment as the Falkland Islands guard ship. She has been protecting the islands and UK territorial waters.
In the Royal Navy a paying-off pennant is flown to mark the end of a ships commission. Traditionally the pennant is the same length as the ship, and somewhat longer if the commission has been extended. It is said to have originated in the 19th century when all cleaning rags were tied together and hoisted as a sign that they were finished with
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Credit: Crown Copyright/MoD
Media ID 15226684
© Crown Copyright
Portsmouth Ensign Patrol Vessel
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The iconic HMS Dumbarton Castle proudly displays her Paying Off Pennant as she makes her final entrance into Portsmouth Harbour. After years of dedicated service, this veteran Royal Navy warship is returning to her beloved home for the last time before retiring from active duty. Having joined the fleet in 1982, this patrol vessel has played a crucial role in safeguarding the Falkland Islands and UK territorial waters. As the Falkland Islands guard ship, she has stood as a symbol of protection and security for these important regions. In accordance with naval tradition, the Paying Off Pennant flies high above her mast, signaling the end of an illustrious commission. This pennant holds great significance within the Royal Navy; its length mirrors that of the ship itself and may be extended if a commission is prolonged. Legend has it that this tradition originated in the 19th century when sailors would hoist all their used cleaning rags tied together to signify their completion. Today, it serves as a poignant reminder of HMS Dumbarton Castle's unwavering dedication and commitment throughout her years at sea. As she gracefully sails into port one final time, let us salute this remarkable vessel and honor all those who have served aboard her with distinction.
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