47 Commando Raiding Group RM

First Sea Lord Visit

In July, 47 Cdo RG RM was privileged to host First Sea Lord Gen Sir Gwyn Jenkins KCB OBE ADC RM following his visit to HMNB Devonport.

As the sun shone down on the pontoons of RM Tamar, the First Sea Lord (1SL) took the opportunity to present various awards to a number of Marines and Officers. The Unit then listened to very clear direction on the work ahead to ensure the Royal Navy and Royal Marines set the conditions for success and optimise themselves for warfighting.

After answering a series of questions from across the Unit, 1SL was taken out on the water by 539 Raiding Sqn, in one of the Commando Raiding Craft. After a quick lesson on its capability from Mne Heather, 1SL threw the throttles into max speed and gave the boat a thorough test drive around the River Tamar. The boats returned to base with their passengers fully windswept and with smiles all round.

It was a pleasure to host 1SL and we look forward to his return at some point again in the future.

1SL outlines his vision for the future

1SL takes to the water

Ravenex

by Mne Boon, 539 RSRM

Eight Coxswains from 1Tp deployed to Mississippi on Ravenex. Our task was to provide the Surface Manoeuvre throughout the riverine environment in support of two Maritime Special Operation Teams (MSOTs) from M Coy, 42 Cdo RM. We were also fortunate to have the opportunity to work alongside American Marines from MARSOC and 1st Force Recon. The exercise was focused on raids, getting onto target silently in order to surprise the enemy. This kind of operation is central to the Commando Force concept of employment and what we can do to support NATO.