Report by Lt Cdr R Fulford RN

HMS RICHMOND returns to UK shores after a six month deployment to the Caribbean. The ship has been deployed to the Caribbean to conduct Counter Drug operations and to standby to assist in Disaster Relief operations.

During the Deployment, HMS RICHMOND has been called upon to help in Disaster Relief Operations on three occasions. Having assisted the Turks and Caicos Islands following the passage of Hurricane Frances, RICHMOND was deployed again in the wake of Hurricane Ivan and was the first ship on the scene to assist a devastated Grenada and again at Grand Cayman. RICHMOND's Ship's Company treated over 200 casualties in the islands and restored essential supplies and communications links to the islands.

A demanding but satisfying deployment is brought to a close with the ship entering harbour at Portsmouth to be met by families and friends. The Ship's Company are now able to take a well earned break, and spend some time with their families over Christmas.

Commander McCartain said:
"It is always an emotional time returning home after a long absence but we are particularly pleased to be back so close to Christmas to restore family life once again. RICHMOND has had a long and eventful deployment over the last six months but has made a difference everywhere we have gone and to make a real difference to people in such desperate need as those we have experienced is truly rewarding."