- Author
- Francis, Richard
- Subjects
- None noted
- Tags
-
- RAN Ships
- None noted.
- Publication
- June 2000 edition of the Naval Historical Review (all rights reserved)
“Change of Ensign Ceremony”, announced the leading RN midshipman “Read your Daily Orders!” he added in rebuke, “Clear the Flight Deck” and proceeded to pipe the “Still” on his bosun’s call.
His companion gravely lowered the RAN white ensign and ceremoniously hoisted the RN white ensign, before piping the “Carry On”. With the rolled-up RAN ensign under one arm, they smartly marched off the flight deck and disappeared. Normal routine continued onboard Melbourne all afternoon, unconcerned, until the gangway was alerted by the Duty Staff Officer.
I personally was amazed that no retribution on Tiger was ever attempted by Melbourne but it may well be that discretion was the better part of valour, in view of her Captain’s temperamental reputation, and the risk of incurring his undoubted wrath if he was ever informed. After 20 or so years maybe the story can now be told.
