HMS Victory

Best known for her role in the Battle of Trafalgar, HMS Victory currently has a dual role as the flagship of the Second Sea Lord and as a living museum to the Georgian Navy. Her Majesty’s Ship Victory is the only surviving naval warship that represents the skill of naval dockyard shipwrights, ship designers and the industrial ability of Britain during the mid-18th Century.

“Being in command of HMS Victory for the past 3 years has been a great honour for me. It is without doubt the best job in the Royal Navy that someone of my rank can undertake and I am very privileged to have served onboard her.

Lieutenant Commander DJ ‘Oscar’ Whild

HMS Victory
HMS Victory
HMS Victory

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COMMANDING OFFICER

Command of HMS Victory is a huge privilege for any CO but to be the 100th adds a particular significance and I am conscious that I am following in some very illustrious footsteps.

Rod Strathern

RANK:
Lieutenant Commander

JOINED:
1989

SPECIALISATION:
Warfare

PREVIOUS UNITS:
HMS Chatham, HMS Edinburgh, HMS Lancaster

Military experience

Lt Cdr Strathern, who lives in Winchester with his wife Sarah and children Ellie and Ben, joined the Royal Navy in 1989 for initial officer training.

Career highlights since then have included a Far East deployment on HMS Chatham, which included a month in Hong Kong as Guardship for the handover of sovereignty to the Chinese.

He later specialised as a Principal Warfare Officer (Underwater), joining HMS Edinburgh, which took him on deployment to include diverse ports such as Latakia in Syria, Beirut and Sevastopol in the Ukraine. Read more

LATEST NEWS

ABOUT THE UNIT

KEY STATISTICS

Crew in 1805: 850

Displacement: 3,500Tonnes

Length: 69.2Metres

Length of Gundeck: 56.7Metres

Cost of Construction: 63,176Pounds

Launch Date: 07/05/65

Commission Date: 01/02/78

Built: Chatham Dockyard

TAKE A LOOK

- Heston Delights the Dockyard with his Naval creation on board HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is to be featured in Heston Blumenthal's Great British Food, the chef's latest show for Channel 4. The series Heston's Great British Food starts this week on Tuesday 10th December at 9pm on Channel 4. The episode featuring HMS Victory will be shown the following Tuesday 17th December at 9pm. Images by LA(Phot) Maxine Davies
- Heston Delights the Dockyard with his Naval creation on board HMS Victory
  
  On the 25th of June 2013, Celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal was onboard HMS Victory to conduct filming for his fothcoming tv documentary. Heston and his film crew from Channel 4 carried out filming for this onboard on the lower poop deck where he made a recipe called 'Scum' which was an old naval traditional dish using a variety of ingredients. Images by LA(Phot) Maxine Davies
- Heston Delights the Dockyard with his Naval creation on board HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is to be featured in Heston Blumenthalâs Great British Food, the chefâs latest show for Channel 4. The series Hestonâs Great British Food starts this week on Tuesday 10th December at 9pm on Channel 4. The episode featuring HMS Victory will be shown the following Tuesday 17th December at 9pm. Images by LA(Phot) Maxine Davies
- Trafalgar Day ceremony onboard HMS Victory
  
  The Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel and his guests attended a ceremony onboard HMS Victory to mark the anniversary of the victory off Cape Trafalgar and to commemorate the death of Admiral Lord Nelson in 1805. Pictured: HMS Victory. Image by LA(Phot) Dan Hooper
- Trafalgar Day ceremony onboard HMS Victory
  
  The Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel and his guests attended a ceremony onboard HMS Victory to mark the anniversary of the victory off Cape Trafalgar and to commemorate the death of Admiral Lord Nelson in 1805. Pictured: Captain Steve Dainton falls in alongside fellow Officers onboard HMS Victory for the Trafalgar Day Ceremony. Image by LA(Phot) Ian Simpson
- Trafalgar Day ceremony onboard HMS Victory
  
  The Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel and his guests attended a ceremony onboard HMS Victory to mark the anniversary of the victory off Cape Trafalgar and to commemorate the death of Admiral Lord Nelson in 1805. Pictured: Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel salutes having laid the wreath upon the spot where Admiral Lord Nelson fell in 1805. In company is LS (AWT) Jamie Jenkins. Image by LA(Phot) Ian Simpson
- Trafalgar Day ceremony onboard HMS Victory
  
  The Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel and his guests attended a ceremony onboard HMS Victory to mark the anniversary of the victory off Cape Trafalgar and to commemorate the death of Admiral Lord Nelson in 1805. Pictured: Lieutenant Commander Rod Strathern, Commanding Officer of HMS Victory (left) and The Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel during the readings of the ceremony onboard HMS Victory. Image by LA(Phot) Ian Simpson
- Trafalgar Day ceremony onboard HMS Victory
  
  The Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel and his guests attended a ceremony onboard HMS Victory to mark the anniversary of the victory off Cape Trafalgar and to commemorate the death of Admiral Lord Nelson in 1805. Pictured: The Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel gives a reading during the ceremony onboard HMS Victory. Image by LA(Phot) Ian Simpson
- Trafalgar Day ceremony onboard HMS Victory
  
  The Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel and his guests attended a ceremony onboard HMS Victory to mark the anniversary of the victory off Cape Trafalgar and to commemorate the death of Admiral Lord Nelson in 1805. Pictured: Monsignor Andrew McFadden, the Royal Navyâs Principal Roman Catholic Chaplain leads the ceremony onboard HMS Victory. Image by LA(Phot) Ian Simpson
- Stalwart sailors and Royal Marines recognised for going ‘above and beyond’
  
  The Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel CBE held a ceremony onboard HMS Victory in order to present a number of Meritorious Service Medals to worthy Senior Non-Commissioned Officers of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. Image by LA(Phot) Ian Simpson
- The snow-clad nameboard of HMS Dauntless
  
  The snow covered sign and bollards of HMS Dauntless. HMNB Portsmouth received a heavy snowfall during the morning of 18th January 2013. It was business as usual for the ships of the Royal Navy despite non essential workers in the Naval Base being returned home. Image taken by PO(Phot) Simmo Simpson, Mobile News Team, HMS Excellent, Royal Navy
- The snow bedecked hull of HMS Victory
  
  HMNB Portsmouth is snowed upon 18/01/13 HMNB Portsmouth received a heavy snowfall during the morning of 18th January 2013. It was business as usual for the ships of the Royal Navy despite non essential workers in the Naval Base being returned home. Image taken by PO(Phot) Simmo Simpson, Mobile News Team, HMS Excellent, Royal Navy
- Old and new together in the snow: HMS Victory and HMS Diamond
  
  HMS Victory (Foreground) and HMS Diamond during the heavy snowfall in Portsmouth. HMNB Portsmouth received a heavy snowfall during the morning of 18th January 2013. It was business as usual for the ships of the Royal Navy despite non essential workers in the Naval Base being returned home. Image taken by PO(Phot) Simmo Simpson, Mobile News Team, HMS Excellent, Royal Navy
- A touch of Narnia at the snow-covered entrance to Victory
  
  The snow covered entrance to HMS Victory which kept her closed to the public during the snowfall. HMNB Portsmouth received a heavy snowfall during the morning of 18th January 2013. It was business as usual for the ships of the Royal Navy despite non essential workers in the Naval Base being returned home. Image taken by PO(Phot) Simmo Simpson, Mobile News Team, HMS Excellent, Royal Navy
- Old and new together in the snow: HMS Victory and HMS Diamond
  
  HMS Victory(Foreground) and HMS Diamond during the heavy snowfall in Portsmouth. HMNB Portsmouth received a heavy snowfall during the morning of 18th January 2013. It was business as usual for the ships of the Royal Navy despite non essential workers in the Naval Base being returned home. Image taken by PO(Phot) Simmo Simpson, Mobile News Team, HMS Excellent, Royal Navy
- Snow-clad buckets on board HMS Victory
  
  The crested buckets onboard HMS Victory are also victim to the snow in Portsmouth. HMNB Portsmouth received a heavy snowfall during the morning of 18th January 2013. It was business as usual for the ships of the Royal Navy despite non essential workers in the Naval Base being returned home. Image taken by PO(Phot) Simmo Simpson, Mobile News Team, HMS Excellent, Royal Navy
- HMS Victory's cannon with Portsmouth's Spinnaker Tower in the background
  
  A CAnnon from HMS Victory stands proud in the snow with Portsmouth's Spinnaker Tower in the background. HMNB Portsmouth received a heavy snowfall during the morning of 18th January 2013. It was business as usual for the ships of the Royal Navy despite non essential workers in the Naval Base being returned home. Image taken by PO(Phot) Simmo Simpson, Mobile News Team, HMS Excellent, Royal Navy
- Sister Type 45s Daring and Dauntless together in the snow flurry
  
  Portsmouth wasnât able to able to dodge the adverse weather conditions as snow hit the South of England. HMNB Portsmouth saw several inches of snow, cover ships and the dockyard roadways. Some ships still had to load supplies for the weekend as the snow is expected to stop, but the cold conditions staying for the next couple of days. Pictured- HMS Dauntless flies the Union Jack with HMS Daring in the background. Image by- PO(PHOT) Paul A'Barrow
- Storing HMS Dauntless and Daring in the snowy weather
  
  Portsmouth wasnât able to able to dodge the adverse weather conditions as snow hit the South of England. HMNB Portsmouth saw several inches of snow, cover ships and the dockyard roadways. Some ships still had to load supplies for the weekend as the snow is expected to stop, but the cold conditions staying for the next couple of days. Pictured- Storing ship in the bad weather as HMS Dauntless & HMS Daring take a delivery of milk. Image by- PO(PHOT) Paul A'Barrow
- A Naval photographer at work in the snow
  
  Portsmouth wasnât able to able to dodge the adverse weather conditions as snow hit the South of England. HMNB Portsmouth saw several inches of snow, cover ships and the dockyard roadways. Some ships still had to load supplies for the weekend as the snow is expected to stop, but the cold conditions staying for the next couple of days. Pictured- PO(PHOT) Simpson out during the snowy conditions as South England, including HMNB Portsmouth, takes a battering from the weather. Image by- PO(PHOT) Paul A'Barrow
- A sailor clears snow from the name-plate of HMS Dauntless
  
  Portsmouth wasnât able to able to dodge the adverse weather conditions as snow hit the South of England. HMNB Portsmouth saw several inches of snow, cover ships and the dockyard roadways. Some ships still had to load supplies for the weekend as the snow is expected to stop, but the cold conditions staying for the next couple of days. Pictured- A member of HMS Dauntless's ship's company clearing away the snow from the ship's name plate. Image by- PO(PHOT) Paul A'Barrow
- HMS Victory during the snowy conditions at HMNB Portsmouth
  
  Portsmouth wasnât able to able to dodge the adverse weather conditions as snow hit the South of England. HMNB Portsmouth saw several inches of snow, cover ships and the dockyard roadways. Some ships still had to load supplies for the weekend as the snow is expected to stop, but the cold conditions staying for the next couple of days. Pictured- One of HMS Victory's canon's with HMS Dimond in the back ground as the snow falls on Portsmouth dockyard. Image by- PO(PHOT) Paul A'Barrow
- HMS Victory during the snowy conditions at HMNB Portsmouth
  
  Portsmouth wasnât able to able to dodge the adverse weather conditions as snow hit the South of England. HMNB Portsmouth saw several inches of snow, cover ships and the dockyard roadways. Some ships still had to load supplies for the weekend as the snow is expected to stop, but the cold conditions staying for the next couple of days. Pictured- HMS Victory flies the Union Jack as the snow falls on HMNB Portsmouth, with Spinnaker tower in the background. Image by- PO(PHOT) Paul A'Barrow
- HMS Victory during the snowy conditions at HMNB Portsmouth
  
  Portsmouth wasnât able to able to dodge the adverse weather conditions as snow hit the South of England. HMNB Portsmouth saw several inches of snow, cover ships and the dockyard roadways. Some ships still had to load supplies for the weekend as the snow is expected to stop, but the cold conditions staying for the next couple of days. Pictured- HMS Victory during the snowy conditions at HMNB Portsmouth. Image by- PO(PHOT) Paul A'Barrow
- Old and new together in the snow: HMS Victory and HMS Diamond
  
  Portsmouth wasnât able to able to dodge the adverse weather conditions as snow hit the South of England. HMNB Portsmouth saw several inches of snow, cover ships and the dockyard roadways. Some ships still had to load supplies for the weekend as the snow is expected to stop, but the cold conditions staying for the next couple of days. Pictured- HMS Victory with HMS Dimond, Type 45 Destroyer in the background. Image by- PO(PHOT) Paul A'Barrow
- The snow on the deck of HMS Victory
  
  Portsmouth wasnât able to able to dodge the adverse weather conditions as snow hit the South of England. HMNB Portsmouth saw several inches of snow, cover ships and the dockyard roadways. Some ships still had to load supplies for the weekend as the snow is expected to stop, but the cold conditions staying for the next couple of days. Pictured- Onboard HMS Victory. Image by- PO(PHOT) Paul A'Barrow
- HMS Diamond in the snow at Portsmouth Naval Base
  
  Portsmouth wasnât able to able to dodge the adverse weather conditions as snow hit the South of England. HMNB Portsmouth saw several inches of snow, cover ships and the dockyard roadways. Some ships still had to load supplies for the weekend as the snow is expected to stop, but the cold conditions staying for the next couple of days. Pictured- HMS Dimond, Type 45 Destroyer along side in HMNB Portsmouth. Image by- PO(PHOT) Paul A'Barrow
- HMS Victory and Hmapshire firefighters test there procedures
- HMS Victory and Hmapshire firefighters test there procedures
- HMS Victory and Hmapshire firefighters test there procedures
- HMS Victory and Hmapshire firefighters test there procedures
- HMS Victory and Hmapshire firefighters test there procedures
- HMS Victory and Hmapshire firefighters test there procedures
- Royal Navy Commemorates Trafalgar Day On Board HMS Victory
  
  The Royal Navyâs most important anniversary has been marked for the 207th year by a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The 21st October is the anniversary of the most decisive naval battle in British history - Admiral Lord Nelson's triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The anniversary also marks the death of Nelson who was fatally wounded during the action. The hoisting of the Colours (Union Jack and White Ensign) and Nelson's signal 'England Expects' marked the start of the commemoration on board HMS Victory. The central act of the commemoration saw the laying of a wreath on the spot where Nelson fell by the Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel, for his first time in his new role as Admiral in charge of HMS Victory. Further wreaths were then laid on the Orlop deck where Nelson died by Brigadier David King Royal Marines and HMS Victoryâs 100th Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Rod Strathern. Pictured: Vice Admiral David Steel CBE lays the wreath where Admiral Lord Nelson fell.
- Royal Navy Commemorates Trafalgar Day On Board HMS Victory
  
  The Royal Navyâs most important anniversary has been marked for the 207th year by a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The 21st October is the anniversary of the most decisive naval battle in British history - Admiral Lord Nelson's triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The anniversary also marks the death of Nelson who was fatally wounded during the action. The hoisting of the Colours (Union Jack and White Ensign) and Nelson's signal 'England Expects' marked the start of the commemoration on board HMS Victory. The central act of the commemoration saw the laying of a wreath on the spot where Nelson fell by the Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel, for his first time in his new role as Admiral in charge of HMS Victory. Further wreaths were then laid on the Orlop deck where Nelson died by Brigadier David King Royal Marines and HMS Victoryâs 100th Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Rod Strathern. Pictured: Vice Admiral David Steel CBE during the Service.
- Royal Navy Commemorates Trafalgar Day On Board HMS Victory
  
  The Royal Navyâs most important anniversary has been marked for the 207th year by a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The 21st October is the anniversary of the most decisive naval battle in British history - Admiral Lord Nelson's triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The anniversary also marks the death of Nelson who was fatally wounded during the action. The hoisting of the Colours (Union Jack and White Ensign) and Nelson's signal 'England Expects' marked the start of the commemoration on board HMS Victory. The central act of the commemoration saw the laying of a wreath on the spot where Nelson fell by the Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel, for his first time in his new role as Admiral in charge of HMS Victory. Further wreaths were then laid on the Orlop deck where Nelson died by Brigadier David King Royal Marines and HMS Victoryâs 100th Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Rod Strathern. Pictured: The wreath laid where Admiral Lord Nelson fell.
- Royal Navy Commemorates Trafalgar Day On Board HMS Victory
  
  The Royal Navyâs most important anniversary has been marked for the 207th year by a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The 21st October is the anniversary of the most decisive naval battle in British history - Admiral Lord Nelson's triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The anniversary also marks the death of Nelson who was fatally wounded during the action. The hoisting of the Colours (Union Jack and White Ensign) and Nelson's signal 'England Expects' marked the start of the commemoration on board HMS Victory. The central act of the commemoration saw the laying of a wreath on the spot where Nelson fell by the Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel, for his first time in his new role as Admiral in charge of HMS Victory. Further wreaths were then laid on the Orlop deck where Nelson died by Brigadier David King Royal Marines and HMS Victoryâs 100th Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Rod Strathern. Pictured: Wreaths are laid on the Orlop deck where Nelson died.
- Royal Navy Commemorates Trafalgar Day On Board HMS Victory
  
  The Royal Navyâs most important anniversary has been marked for the 207th year by a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The 21st October is the anniversary of the most decisive naval battle in British history - Admiral Lord Nelson's triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The anniversary also marks the death of Nelson who was fatally wounded during the action. The hoisting of the Colours (Union Jack and White Ensign) and Nelson's signal 'England Expects' marked the start of the commemoration on board HMS Victory. The central act of the commemoration saw the laying of a wreath on the spot where Nelson fell by the Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel, for his first time in his new role as Admiral in charge of HMS Victory. Further wreaths were then laid on the Orlop deck where Nelson died by Brigadier David King Royal Marines and HMS Victoryâs 100th Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Rod Strathern. Pictured: The Trafalgar Day Service seen here taking place on the quarterdeck of HMS Victory.
- Royal Navy Commemorates Trafalgar Day On Board HMS Victory
  
  The Royal Navyâs most important anniversary has been marked for the 207th year by a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The 21st October is the anniversary of the most decisive naval battle in British history - Admiral Lord Nelson's triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The anniversary also marks the death of Nelson who was fatally wounded during the action. The hoisting of the Colours (Union Jack and White Ensign) and Nelson's signal 'England Expects' marked the start of the commemoration on board HMS Victory. The central act of the commemoration saw the laying of a wreath on the spot where Nelson fell by the Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel, for his first time in his new role as Admiral in charge of HMS Victory. Further wreaths were then laid on the Orlop deck where Nelson died by Brigadier David King Royal Marines and HMS Victoryâs 100th Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Rod Strathern. Pictured: The Trafalgar Day Service seen here taking place on the quarterdeck of HMS Victory.
- First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.
  
  On the 9th October 2012, photos were taken on the Second Sealord with his Knighthood. Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery KCB ADC collected his Knighthood from the Buckingham Palace on the 8 Oct 2012. Photos were taken at Admiralty House and HMS Victory. Pictured: Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery KCB ADC on board HMS Victory.
- First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.
  
  On the 10th October 2012, Vice Admiral D Steel CBE superseded Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery KCB ADC as Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord at a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The event culminated with the formal handover of HMS Victory to the Chief of Naval Staff and First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope GCB OBE ADC, marked by his flag shift to Victory and the subsequent appointment of Vice Admiral D Steel CBE as 'Admiral in charge HMS Victory'. Pictured: Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery KCB ADC (left) and Vice Admiral D Steel CBE (right) sign the book to handover the residence of Admiralty House.
- First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.
  
  On the 10th October 2012, Vice Admiral D Steel CBE superseded Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery KCB ADC as Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord at a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The event culminated with the formal handover of HMS Victory to the Chief of Naval Staff and First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope GCB OBE ADC, marked by his flag shift to Victory and the subsequent appointment of Vice Admiral D Steel CBE as 'Admiral in charge HMS Victory'. Pictured: Vice Admiral D Steel CBE inspects the Guard formed from ratings from HMS Collingwood on HMS Victory's Quarterdeck.
- First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.
  
  On the 10th October 2012, Vice Admiral D Steel CBE superseded Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery KCB ADC as Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord at a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The event culminated with the formal handover of HMS Victory to the Chief of Naval Staff and First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope GCB OBE ADC, marked by his flag shift to Victory and the subsequent appointment of Vice Admiral D Steel CBE as 'Admiral in charge HMS Victory'. Pictured: Vice Admiral D Steel CBE inspects the Guard formed from ratings from HMS Collingwood on HMS Victory's Quarterdeck.
- First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.
  
  On the 10th October 2012, Vice Admiral D Steel CBE superseded Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery KCB ADC as Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord at a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The event culminated with the formal handover of HMS Victory to the Chief of Naval Staff and First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope GCB OBE ADC, marked by his flag shift to Victory and the subsequent appointment of Vice Admiral D Steel CBE as 'Admiral in charge HMS Victory'. Pictured: Vice Admiral D Steel CBE inspects the Guard formed from ratings from HMS Collingwood on HMS Victory's Quarterdeck.
- First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.
  
  On the 10th October 2012, Vice Admiral D Steel CBE superseded Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery KCB ADC as Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord at a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The event culminated with the formal handover of HMS Victory to the Chief of Naval Staff and First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope GCB OBE ADC, marked by his flag shift to Victory and the subsequent appointment of Vice Admiral D Steel CBE as 'Admiral in charge HMS Victory'. Pictured: Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery KCB ADC, Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope GCB OBE ADC and Vice Admiral D Steel CBE salute as the First Sea Lord's flag is broken at the main mast to signify his takeover of HMS Victory.
- First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.
  
  On the 10th October 2012, Vice Admiral D Steel CBE superseded Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery KCB ADC as Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord at a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The event culminated with the formal handover of HMS Victory to the Chief of Naval Staff and First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope GCB OBE ADC, marked by his flag shift to Victory and the subsequent appointment of Vice Admiral D Steel CBE as 'Admiral in charge HMS Victory'. Pictured: Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery KCB ADC shakes the hand of Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope GCB OBE ADC to signify the successful completion in the handover of HMS Victory.
- First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.
  
  On the 10th October 2012, Vice Admiral D Steel CBE superseded Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery KCB ADC as Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord at a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The event culminated with the formal handover of HMS Victory to the Chief of Naval Staff and First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope GCB OBE ADC, marked by his flag shift to Victory and the subsequent appointment of Vice Admiral D Steel CBE as 'Admiral in charge HMS Victory'. Pictured: Vice Admiral D Steel CBE (left) supersedes Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery (right) KCB ADC as Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord.
- First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.
  
  On the 10th October 2012, Vice Admiral D Steel CBE superseded Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery KCB ADC as Chief of Naval Personnel and Training and Second Sea Lord at a ceremony on board HMS Victory. The event culminated with the formal handover of HMS Victory to the Chief of Naval Staff and First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope GCB OBE ADC, marked by his flag shift to Victory and the subsequent appointment of Vice Admiral D Steel CBE as 'Admiral in charge HMS Victory'. Pictured: Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope GCB OBE ADC signs the book to appoint Vice Admiral D Steel CBE 'Admiral in Charge HMS Victory'.
- The Olympic Flame is passed in the shadow of Nelson's flagship
  
  NAVAL BASE HOSTS OLYMPIC TORCH Colette Hayes was passed the Olypmic Torch today by Mazie Watson outside HMS Victory as The Olympic Flameâs route through Portsmouth took on a distinctive Navy flavour today (July 15) as it arrived in the city by sea from Gosport. Royal Navy patrol vessel HMS Exploit - and two World War II motorboats - escorted the Gosport Ferry as it brought the torch across the harbour into Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Greeting the torch-bearing party as it stepped ashore were Captain of the Base, Captain Jeremy Rigby, Base Services Manager Commander David Hilton and Chief Executive of Portsmouth Naval Base Property Trust Peter Goodship. Watched by hundreds of spectators, the torch then made its way the short distance to HMS Victoryâs starboard arena where the flame changed hands again for its next leg of its journey through the city. On hand to witness the exchange against the backdrop of HMS Victory were Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery, and Naval Base Commander, Commodore Tony Radakin. They were accompanied by the Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, Councillor Frank Jonas and other civic dignitaries. Cdre Radakin said: âThis has been an historic day for local families and a delight to host this with our local dignitaries. It was great to see so many people in the naval base supporting the water leg of the torchâs journey and reflecting Portsmouth and the Royal Navyâs importance as an island nation.â Jacquie Shaw, Acting Manager Director for Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, added: âBeing the arrival location for the Olympic Torch into Portsmouth has been a hugely memorable event and a fantastic way to showcase our unique naval attractions, past and present, as well as highlighting the talent in our local community to a worldwide audience.â Yesterday (Saturday) HMS Exploit - attached to the University of Birmingham as one of the Navyâs University Roy
- The Olympic Flame is passed in the shadow of Nelson's flagship
  
  NAVAL BASE HOSTS OLYMPIC TORCH Colette Hayes was passed the Olypmic Torch today by Mazie Watson outside HMS Victory as The Olympic Flameâs route through Portsmouth took on a distinctive Navy flavour today (July 15) as it arrived in the city by sea from Gosport. Royal Navy patrol vessel HMS Exploit - and two World War II motorboats - escorted the Gosport Ferry as it brought the torch across the harbour into Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Greeting the torch-bearing party as it stepped ashore were Captain of the Base, Captain Jeremy Rigby, Base Services Manager Commander David Hilton and Chief Executive of Portsmouth Naval Base Property Trust Peter Goodship. Watched by hundreds of spectators, the torch then made its way the short distance to HMS Victoryâs starboard arena where the flame changed hands again for its next leg of its journey through the city. On hand to witness the exchange against the backdrop of HMS Victory were Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery, and Naval Base Commander, Commodore Tony Radakin. They were accompanied by the Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, Councillor Frank Jonas and other civic dignitaries. Cdre Radakin said: âThis has been an historic day for local families and a delight to host this with our local dignitaries. It was great to see so many people in the naval base supporting the water leg of the torchâs journey and reflecting Portsmouth and the Royal Navyâs importance as an island nation.â Jacquie Shaw, Acting Manager Director for Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, added: âBeing the arrival location for the Olympic Torch into Portsmouth has been a hugely memorable event and a fantastic way to showcase our unique naval attractions, past and present, as well as highlighting the talent in our local community to a worldwide audience.â Yesterday (Saturday) HMS Exploit - attached to the University of Birmingham as one of the Navyâs University Roy
- The Olympic Flame is passed in the shadow of Nelson's flagship
  
  NAVAL BASE HOSTS OLYMPIC TORCH Colette Hayes was passed the Olypmic Torch today by Mazie Watson outside HMS Victory as The Olympic Flameâs route through Portsmouth took on a distinctive Navy flavour today (July 15) as it arrived in the city by sea from Gosport. Royal Navy patrol vessel HMS Exploit - and two World War II motorboats - escorted the Gosport Ferry as it brought the torch across the harbour into Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Greeting the torch-bearing party as it stepped ashore were Captain of the Base, Captain Jeremy Rigby, Base Services Manager Commander David Hilton and Chief Executive of Portsmouth Naval Base Property Trust Peter Goodship. Watched by hundreds of spectators, the torch then made its way the short distance to HMS Victoryâs starboard arena where the flame changed hands again for its next leg of its journey through the city. On hand to witness the exchange against the backdrop of HMS Victory were Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral Sir Charles Montgomery, and Naval Base Commander, Commodore Tony Radakin. They were accompanied by the Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, Councillor Frank Jonas and other civic dignitaries. Cdre Radakin said: âThis has been an historic day for local families and a delight to host this with our local dignitaries. It was great to see so many people in the naval base supporting the water leg of the torchâs journey and reflecting Portsmouth and the Royal Navyâs importance as an island nation.â Jacquie Shaw, Acting Manager Director for Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, added: âBeing the arrival location for the Olympic Torch into Portsmouth has been a hugely memorable event and a fantastic way to showcase our unique naval attractions, past and present, as well as highlighting the talent in our local community to a worldwide audience.â Yesterday (Saturday) HMS Exploit - attached to the University of Birmingham as one of the Navyâs University Roy
- Sir Donald Gosling
- Navy's long-standing benefactor flies his flag on Victory
- Navy's long-standing benefactor flies his flag on Victory
- HMS Victory
- HMS Victory
- HMS Victory
- HMS Victory
  
  Visit by the Belgian Ambassador Jean-Michel Veranneman de Watervliet to HMS VICTORY and The Mary Rose before traveling with HMS ALBION to London. The Ambassador was given a private tour of HMS VICTORY by her Executive Officer and shown the Mary Rose and Museum by Rear Admiral John Lippiett CB MBE.Also present was HMS ALBION's Commanding Officer Captain Tim Lowe. Images taken in Portsmouth's historic dockyard, onboard HMS VICTORY and around the Mary Rose. Images taken by LA (PHOT) Dan Hooper on 08\10\07. LA (PHOT) Dan Hooper HMS ALBION BFPO 204 Tel. 01752 554972 Military. 937426385
- HMS Victory
  
  Visit by the Belgian Ambassador Jean-Michel Veranneman de Watervliet to HMS VICTORY and The Mary Rose before traveling with HMS ALBION to London. The Ambassador was given a private tour of HMS VICTORY by her Executive Officer and shown the Mary Rose and Museum by Rear Admiral John Lippiett CB MBE.Also present was HMS ALBION's Commanding Officer Captain Tim Lowe. Images taken in Portsmouth's historic dockyard, onboard HMS VICTORY and around the Mary Rose. Images taken by LA (PHOT) Dan Hooper on 08\10\07. LA (PHOT) Dan Hooper HMS ALBION BFPO 204 Tel. 01752 554972 Military. 937426385
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  HMS Victory in the Historic dockyard area of HMNB Portsmouth is an English Heritage gem. The ship is constantly under renovation in a battle to preserve her to her former glory. This image was taken for archive prior to the major renovation of her masts. Image taken by LA(Phot) Simmo Simpson, FRPU(E)
- HMS Victory
  
  The Second Sea Lord addresses the local media onboard HMS Victory. The 2nd Sea Lord, Vice Admiral Charles Montgomery held a press conference onboard HMS Victory to announce the changed custodianship of his flagship. The move to the HMS Victory Preservation Trust has been heralded by the announcement of Â£25 million capital grant to support the trust by the Gosling Foundation, an amount which the MOD has agreed to match.
- HMS Victory
  
  The Second Sea Lord Vice Admiral Charles Montgomery and Sir Johnathan Band at HMS Victory post press conference. The 2nd Sea Lord, Vice Admiral Charles Montgomery held a press conference onboard HMS Victory to announce the changed custodianship of his flagship. The move to the HMS Victory Preservation Trust has been heralded by the announcement of Â£25 million capital grant to support the trust by the Gosling Foundation, an amount which the MOD has agreed to match.
- The Royal Navy’s most important anniversary was marked for the 206th year by a ceremony on HMS Victory today, 21st October 2011 at 8.45 am
  
  The Royal Navyâs most important anniversary was marked for the 206th year by a ceremony on HMS Victory today, 21st October 2011 at 8.45 am. October 21 is the anniversary of the most decisive naval battle under sail in British history - Admiral Lord Nelson's triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The anniversary also marks the death of Nelson when he was fatally wounded during the action. The hoisting of the Colours (Union Jack and White Ensign) and Nelson's signal 'England Expects' marks the start of the commemoration on HMS Victory. A team of ratings and staff from HMS Victory hoisted the 32 flags in sequence on Victory's three masts at 8.00 am. The central act of the commemoration consisted of the laying of a wreath on the spot where Nelson fell by Second Sea Lord and Commander-in-Chief Naval Home Command, Vice Admiral Charles Montgomery CBE ADC. Further wreaths were also be laid on the Orlop deck where Nelson died by Commandant General Royal Marines, Major General Buster Howes, and the ship's Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Oscar Whild Royal Navy. Following the ceremony, Vice Admiral Montgomery, said âWhen I was laying the wreath, I had a very powerful sense of history and a sense of Nelsonâs lasting legacy to our nation which is still felt today. âNot only did he give us victory at Trafalgar, which decimated the only other naval powers at the time and paved the way for end of the Napoleonic war, he enabled us to build an empire which lasted 150 years â the wealth of which still gives us our status in the world today.â *** Local Caption *** Lt Cdr DJ Whild
- The Royal Navy’s most important anniversary was marked for the 206th year by a ceremony on HMS Victory today, 21st October 2011 at 8.45 am
  
  The Royal Navyâs most important anniversary was marked for the 206th year by a ceremony on HMS Victory today, 21st October 2011 at 8.45 am. October 21 is the anniversary of the most decisive naval battle under sail in British history - Admiral Lord Nelson's triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The anniversary also marks the death of Nelson when he was fatally wounded during the action.The hoisting of the Colours (Union Jack and White Ensign) and Nelson's signal 'England Expects' marks the start of the commemoration on HMS Victory. A team of ratings and staff from HMS Victory hoisted the 32 flags in sequence on Victory's three masts at 8.00 am. The central act of the commemoration consisted of the laying of a wreath on the spot where Nelson fell by Second Sea Lord and Commander-in-Chief Naval Home Command, Vice Admiral Charles Montgomery CBE ADC. Further wreaths were also be laid on the Orlop deck where Nelson died by Commandant General Royal Marines, Major General Buster Howes, and the ship's Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Oscar Whild Royal Navy. Following the ceremony, Vice Admiral Montgomery, said âWhen I was laying the wreath, I had a very powerful sense of history and a sense of Nelsonâs lasting legacy to our nation which is still felt today.âNot only did he give us victory at Trafalgar, which decimated the only other naval powers at the time and paved the way for end of the Napoleonic war, he enabled us to build an empire which lasted 150 years â the wealth of which still gives us our status in the world today.â
- The Royal Navy’s most important anniversary was marked for the 206th year by a ceremony on HMS Victory today, 21st October 2011 at 8.45 am
  
  The Royal Navyâs most important anniversary was marked for the 206th year by a ceremony on HMS Victory today, 21st October 2011 at 8.45 am. October 21 is the anniversary of the most decisive naval battle under sail in British history - Admiral Lord Nelson's triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The anniversary also marks the death of Nelson when he was fatally wounded during the action. The hoisting of the Colours (Union Jack and White Ensign) and Nelson's signal 'England Expects' marks the start of the commemoration on HMS Victory. A team of ratings and staff from HMS Victory hoisted the 32 flags in sequence on Victory's three masts at 8.00 am. The central act of the commemoration consisted of the laying of a wreath on the spot where Nelson fell by Second Sea Lord and Commander-in-Chief Naval Home Command, Vice Admiral Charles Montgomery CBE ADC. Further wreaths were also be laid on the Orlop deck where Nelson died by Commandant General Royal Marines, Major General Buster Howes, and the ship's Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Oscar Whild Royal Navy. Following the ceremony, Vice Admiral Montgomery, said âWhen I was laying the wreath, I had a very powerful sense of history and a sense of Nelsonâs lasting legacy to our nation which is still felt today. âNot only did he give us victory at Trafalgar, which decimated the only other naval powers at the time and paved the way for end of the Napoleonic war, he enabled us to build an empire which lasted 150 years â the wealth of which still gives us our status in the world today.â
- US SUBMARINERS PROMOTED ON BOARD HMS VICTORY
- US SUBMARINERS PROMOTED ON BOARD HMS VICTORY
- Lt Cdr Strathern signing the Ship's Log to officially take over command from Lt Cdr DJ ‘Oscar’ Whild
- Lt Cdr Strathern signing the Ship's Log to officially take over command from Lt Cdr DJ ‘Oscar’ Whild
- Lt Cdr Strathern signing the Ship's Log to officially take over command from Lt Cdr DJ ‘Oscar’ Whild
- (left to right) Lt Cdr Whild, Second Sea Lord Vice Admiral Montgomery and Lt Cdr Strathern
- Lt Cdr Whild (left) and Lt Cdr Strathern
- Lt Cdr Strathern, new CO of HMS Victory
- HMS Victory
- HMS Victory
- HMS Victory
- HMS Victory
- HMS Victory
- HMS Victory
- HMS Victory

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UNITS IN TIME

HMS Victory HISTORY

TRACK THE HISTORY OF SHIPS NAMED HMS Victory

Building Commences

Ordered by the Navy Board on June 6 1759 during the Seven Years' war, this first rate 100-gun ship was designed by the Surveyor of the Navy, Sir Thomas Slade. Building commenced at Chatham Dockyard on July 23 1759 under Master Shipwright John Lock and was completed by Edward Allen on May 7 1765.
Victory is my Name

The ship was actually named Victory on October 30 1760. Her cost, when completed in 1765, amounted to £63,176 (a century later HMS Warrior cost £330,000). After sea trials the Victory was put into "ordinary" (into reserve) until France joined the war of American Independence.
An Admiral's Flagship

First commissioned in February 1778, she became the flagship of Admiral Keppel, and thereafter was nearly always an Admiral's flagship.
Refits and Improvements

In March 1780, following new practice ordered by the Navy Board, she was docked and her hull sheathed with copper sheeting to combat shipworm and marine growth. This innovation also improved her speed.
Victory Outnumbered

1781 saw the Victory under the flag of Admiral Kempenfelt who, on December 13, fell in with a French fleet off Ushant. The French, bound from Brest to the West Indies, were escorting a convoy of troopships. Though Kempenfelt's squadron was numerically inferior, he captured the entire convoy from under the escort's noses, and the Victory added another battle honour to those gained by her forbears of the same name.
Victory In Gibraltar

In October 1782, under the flag of Admiral "Black Dick" Howe (his complexion, not his temper, gave him the nickname), she took part in an action off Cape Spartel and the Relief of Gibraltar. (The Great Siege of Gibraltar lasted four years).
French Revolution

She was refitted in March 1793 at a cost of £15,372, and her armament increased. With the opening of the French Revolutionary war in 1793, HMS Victory became the flagship of Lord Hood who was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Mediterranean fleet. (It was in 1789 that the use of HMS to describe a warship first became standard.) The fleet then captured, but was unable to hold, the Island of Corsica. It was at the taking of Calvi, where he lost the sight of his right eye, that a young Captain, Horatio Nelson, first made his name.
Arise Sir Nelson

Admiral Sir John Jervis hoisted his flag in Victory the following December. On February 14 1797, off Cape St Vincent, the southwest corner of Spain, Jervis led Victory with 14 ships of the line against a Spanish squadron, comprising 27 ships under Admiral Cordoba. A decisive victory was won. Much was due to the quick perception of Nelson who, now a Commodore in the 74-gun HMS Captain, left the line of battle (an unheard of act for a junior officer), to prevent the two halves of the Spanish squadron from rejoining.
Nelson engaged and boarded the San Josef then, using that ship as a "patent boarding bridge" captured the neighbouring ship San Nicholas. This action earned Nelson a knighthood and promotion to Rear Admiral. In October 1797 Victory returned to England, now 32 years old and battle-weary she was sent to Chatham to await her fate. On December 8, considered unfit for service, Victory was ordered to be converted to a hospital ship. Fortune reversed the decision when the first rate Impregnable was lost off Chichester Harbour on 8 October 1799, leaving the fleet short of one three-decker. Consequently Victory was given a new lease of life.
A Great Repair

Another survey considered that she was "in want of middling repair" at an estimate of £23,500. Refitting commenced at Chatham in 1800. The "middling repair" turned into a "great repair" as more defects were found. She was modernised, her open stern galleries being removed and the entire stern closed in. Two extra ports were cut on her lower gun deck and the magazines were lined with copper.
The heavy ornate figurehead, now very rotten, was replaced by the simpler, lighter design. Her pole masts (made from a single tree trunk) were replaced with composite masts (made from a number of trunks banded with iron hoops). The ship was also repainted with the black and yellow livery as seen today, although the port lids remained yellow. These were later painted black producing the "Nelson chequer" pattern which became standard after Trafalgar.
Victory Reborn

Undocked on April 11 1803, the cost of this "great repair" now amounted to £70,933. All her heavy lower deck 42-pounder guns were replaced with lighter and more manageable 32 pounders. Under her new Captain, Thomas Hardy, she sailed for Portsmouth on May 14. Threat of invasion by Napoleon caused renewed hostilities with France and, on May 16, the Victory sailed for the Mediterranean carrying Lord Nelson, the newly-appointed Commander-in-Chief. From this point Nelson and Victory became synonymous.
Nelson

For the next 18 months Nelson blockaded the French fleet in Toulon to prevent them escaping to join forces with other squadrons based on France's Atlantic arsenals. Periodically, ships of Nelson's squadron would retreat to Agincourt Sound, Corsica. It was there, May 19th 1805, that Nelson learned that the Toulon fleet under Villeneuve had sailed. Not knowing where they were bound, Nelson headed east first but not finding the French in Egypt, beat back west to Gibraltar where he learned that they were headed for the West Indies.
Napoleon's invasion plan was that Villeneuve should sail to the West Indies to draw the English from the Channel. In hot pursuit Nelson followed. Villeneuve carried out a few half-hearted operations in the West Indies and returned to Europe, Nelson hard on his heels. Villeneuve, finding his way to the Channel blocked by Sir Robert Calder's squadron and with Nelson behind him, bolted into Cadiz, to be bottled up by his pursuers.
Victory, with a fatigued Nelson, returned home arriving at Spithead on August 18 1805; but Napoleon's invasion of Britain had been foiled and his troops were withdrawn from Boulogne to another theatre of war. After brief respite the Victory sailed with Nelson from Portsmouth on September 15 1805 to join the blockading fleet under Collingwood off Cadiz. Villeneuve's orders now were to take the combined Franco-Spanish fleet into the Mediterranean. On October 18 1805 frigates signalled that the enemy were weighing anchor.
Villeneuve's fleet, now comprising 33 ships of the line, headed for Gibraltar but, unable to shake off the British fleet, turned back for Cadiz and inevitable combat. As day broke on Monday October 21 1805, off Cape Trafalgar, Nelson's fleet of 27 ships formed into two columns and sailed towards the enemy. Battle commenced about 1145 with Collingwood's division breaching the rear of the enemy fleet. Nelson in Victory followed shortly, driving into the centre and opening a devastating fire into the stern of Villeneuve's flagship Bucentaure. Victory then engaged and grappled the Redoutable.
At about 1315, when the fighting was at its fiercest, Nelson was shot by a French marksman and taken below where he died at 1630. By this time the enemy had been routed and a great victory won. Seventeen ships had been captured and one, the French Achille, blew up as a finale to the battle. The French battle-fleet was never again a threat. Much damaged, the Victory was towed to Gibraltar and finally returned to Portsmouth, arriving on December 4 1805, bearing her dead Admiral.
Retirement Victory

After repairs at Chatham, the Victory was recommissioned in March 1808. For the next 4 years she was on active service in the Baltic and off the coast of Spain. In 1812, now 47 years old, she finally returned to Portsmouth on December 4 and paid off 16 days later, ending her sea-going life.
'Ordinary'

After the war Victory was given a further refit but, the war with France being over, she was placed back into "ordinary". In 1824 she became the flagship for the Port Admiral. In 1831 the ship was listed for disposal but Hardy, now First Sea Lord, at his wife's request declined to sign the warrant. In 1889 Victory became the flagship for the Commander-in-Chief and remains so today.
HMS Neptune

In 1903 she was accidentally rammed by HMS Neptune under tow to the breakers. This event, together with the centenary celebrations for Trafalgar, raised questions about her future but nothing was resolved before World War I. Finally, following a national appeal led by the Society for Nautical Research, Victory was put into her present dock on January 12 1922 and work began to restore her to her 1805 appearance. She remains now as the embodiment of the spirit and fine traditions of the Royal Navy.

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Heston Delights the Dockyard with his Naval creation on board HMS Victory

Trafalgar Day ceremony onboard HMS Victory

Portsmouth's new fleet - of buses!

Stalwart sailors and Royal Marines recognised for going 'above and beyond'

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Heston Delights the Dockyard with his Naval creation on board HMS Victory

Heston Delights the Dockyard with his Naval creation on board HMS Victory

Heston Delights the Dockyard with his Naval creation on board HMS Victory

Trafalgar Day ceremony onboard HMS Victory

Trafalgar Day ceremony onboard HMS Victory

Trafalgar Day ceremony onboard HMS Victory

Trafalgar Day ceremony onboard HMS Victory

Trafalgar Day ceremony onboard HMS Victory

Trafalgar Day ceremony onboard HMS Victory

Stalwart sailors and Royal Marines recognised for going ‘above and beyond’

The snow-clad nameboard of HMS Dauntless

The snow bedecked hull of HMS Victory

Old and new together in the snow: HMS Victory and HMS Diamond

A touch of Narnia at the snow-covered entrance to Victory

Old and new together in the snow: HMS Victory and HMS Diamond

Snow-clad buckets on board HMS Victory

HMS Victory's cannon with Portsmouth's Spinnaker Tower in the background

Sister Type 45s Daring and Dauntless together in the snow flurry

Storing HMS Dauntless and Daring in the snowy weather

A Naval photographer at work in the snow

A sailor clears snow from the name-plate of HMS Dauntless

HMS Victory during the snowy conditions at HMNB Portsmouth

HMS Victory during the snowy conditions at HMNB Portsmouth

HMS Victory during the snowy conditions at HMNB Portsmouth

Old and new together in the snow: HMS Victory and HMS Diamond

The snow on the deck of HMS Victory

HMS Diamond in the snow at Portsmouth Naval Base

HMS Victory and Hmapshire firefighters test there procedures

HMS Victory and Hmapshire firefighters test there procedures

HMS Victory and Hmapshire firefighters test there procedures

HMS Victory and Hmapshire firefighters test there procedures

HMS Victory and Hmapshire firefighters test there procedures

HMS Victory and Hmapshire firefighters test there procedures

Royal Navy Commemorates Trafalgar Day On Board HMS Victory

Royal Navy Commemorates Trafalgar Day On Board HMS Victory

Royal Navy Commemorates Trafalgar Day On Board HMS Victory

Royal Navy Commemorates Trafalgar Day On Board HMS Victory

Royal Navy Commemorates Trafalgar Day On Board HMS Victory

Royal Navy Commemorates Trafalgar Day On Board HMS Victory

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope has seen his flag hoisted at HMS Victory in a handover ceremony with the new Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel.

The Olympic Flame is passed in the shadow of Nelson's flagship

The Olympic Flame is passed in the shadow of Nelson's flagship

The Olympic Flame is passed in the shadow of Nelson's flagship

Sir Donald Gosling

Navy's long-standing benefactor flies his flag on Victory

Navy's long-standing benefactor flies his flag on Victory

HMS Victory

HMS Victory

HMS Victory

HMS Victory

HMS Victory

HMS Victory

HMS Victory

HMS Victory

HMS Victory