Collingwood gives farewell to Commanding Officer

By Marie Arnott

PERSONNEL from HMS Collingwood recently bid a fond farewell to Captain Tim Davey as they held a goodbye ceremony for the popular figure, who has served this role at the Fareham-based training establishment since October 2022.

He leaves on promotion to Commodore and will go on to assume the role of Commander British Forces Gibraltar later this year. On leaving Captain Davey said “I would like to express my sincere thanks to every member of this outstanding training establishment.”

He continued to say: “It has been a privilege to lead such a dedicated, capable and resilient team – military, civil service, and contractors alike – who together deliver an operationally vital output for the Royal Navy every single day. Thank you – I wish you all continued success and send the very best wishes and good luck to my successor”.

Captain Davey handed command of HMS Collingwood to Captain John Cromie before leaving the establishment for a final time; a journey that saw him escorted by the Royal Marines Band Collingwood along a route lined by the Ship’s Company.

Captain Cromie will be responsible for enabling the primary output of the establishment, which is the delivery of Warfare and Weapon Engineering training for Royal Navy Officers and Ratings.

Captain Cromie said “It is an honour to assume command of HMS Collingwood and the Maritime Warfare School. Preparing our Sailors and Officers to meet the demands of the front line is a huge privilege. I am inspired by the ability, skill, and dedication of our people and look forward to the challenges ahead.”

PICTURED BY KEITH WOODLAND: Captain Davey begins his farewell around HMS Collingwood as he is celebrated for a positive tenure of over three years.