The Commando Helicopter Force

Ex Medic Sail

by LMA Faulkner

Between 29 September and 2 October 2025, the CHF Medical Team ventured on Ex Medic Sail, an AT exercise aboard the Royal Marines Sailing Club’s yacht, Ocean Wave of Albany. This four-day offshore sailing exercise, exploring the waters of the Solent, was more than an escape from the office it was a chance to build cohesion among the team ahead of Operation Clockwork. The team included Surg Lt Cdr Jenkins RN, WO1 Knaggs RN, CSgt Bennett, POMA Kirk and LMA Faulkner.

The crew assembled on RMSC Yacht Ocean Wave of Albany

Day one: On Monday, the team travelled to the Joint Services Adventurous Sail Training Centre in Gosport, where they took over Ocean Wave of Albany, a Hallberg-Rassy 342 yacht, well-suited for a crew learning the ropes of offshore sailing. After the necessary handover formalities, the team fuelled up with traditional egg banjos at the Hornet Sailing Club clubhouse. This was followed by yacht familiarisation, safety briefs and practical drills led by Surg Lt Cdr Jenkins, who has over 20 years of sailing experience to share with the team. These initial activities played a crucial role in bedding in the team, many of whom had limited or no previous experience.