Unit Re-naming – LEVIATHAN: Mighty Beast of the Sea!
The big event for the Unit so far this year was our re-naming ceremony. Although the Unit name FLAMINGO had served us well for many years, it was felt that the time had come to change the name to reflect the on-going links with our local hero, John William Trotter, Master of HMS LEVIATHAN at the Battle of Trafalgar. As mentioned in previous newsletters, he is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, close to Pipewellgate. His grave wasrefurbished with the aid of our Cadets and the local Royal Naval Association. Each Trafalgar Day a memorial service is held there, led by our cadets and supported by local dignitaries and naval personnel.
The Sea Cadets Association headquarters gave us permission for the name change and it went ahead at a formal ceremony on 16th April.
The new cap tally
The event was memorable for the enthusiasm of the Cadets and their parents and guardians, who turned out in great numbers, but also for the support given by our visiting dignitaries, including: the Mayor Designate of Gateshead, Councillor Jill Green; the Northern Area Officer, Captain Peter Adams; The Master of Trinity House, Captain Stephen Healy; and representatives from HMS CALLIOPE; the Regional MSSC; the Sir James Knott Trust; the Collingwood Society and St Mary’s Heritage Centre.
The A Team
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The Deputy Mayor (now Mayor) of Gateshead Councillor Jill Green cutting the cake
Stop Press: The Mayor of Gateshead Councillor Jill Green has graciously decided to make the Gateshead Sea cadet Unit one of the two beneficiaries of her Mayoral Charities for the coming year. We are very honoured and grateful for this great support.
David Byrne, Chair Unit Management Committee
david.byrne@flag-c.com