The Queen walked into history with a brand new title presented in a very special place.
Her Majesty became the first woman to hold the post of Vice Admiral of the United Kingdom.
Queen Camilla’s historic position was conferred as she visited HMS Astute in Plymouth of which she is sponsor. The submarine was celebrating the end of its first commission – another moment of history as it has lasted fifteen years, the longest ever for a Royal Navy submarine.
The Queen was welcomed on board by the crew who she has supported for nearly two decades since she formally named HMS Astute.
The crew was also standing by as Rear Admiral Andy Perks, Head of the Submarine Service, presented The Queen with a burgee, or pennant, as part of her appointment as Vice Admiral.
The position recognises Queen Camilla’s long standing support for the Royal Navy.
First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff, Sir Gwyn Jenkins, said ”we are honoured to welcome Her Majesty The Queen to HM Naval Base Devenport. Her Majesty’s visit has been a tremendous boost to morale, and the honorary appointment reflects the high regard in which Her Majesty is held by all of us.”
The post of Vice Admiral has existed since the 16th century and is usually held by a senior member of the Royal Navy.
