The Royal Navy’s Officer Cadets celebrated a significant milestone at the final pass-out parade of 2024, held at Britannia Royal Naval College (BRNC) in Dartmouth.
According to a press release from the Royal Navy, the parade, attended by Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, marked the successful completion of 29 weeks of rigorous training for 186 future leaders of the Royal Navy.
Among the 133 UK Officer Cadets and 8 international cadets from partner nations—including Oman, Qatar, Lithuania, Ukraine, Thailand, Indonesia, Kenya, and Bahrain—were several notable individuals ready to embark on their careers within the Royal Navy. The parade symbolised their transition from civilians to junior officers, equipped with the skills and knowledge needed for leadership.
Admiral Sir Tony Radakin took the salute as the cadets marched past, offering his congratulations and recognising the immense commitment required to reach this point. Reflecting on his own career, which began at the same parade ground nearly 35 years ago, Radakin was quoted as saying: “Today you stand ready, ready to wear this uniform, ready to lead our Navy into the future, ready to serve your country come what may, it’s quite a transformation and quite a commitment.”
Captain Andy Bray, Commanding Officer of BRNC, expressed his pride in the cadets’ achievements and their families’ support. He said: “Joining the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Royal Fleet Auxiliary as an officer is a life-changing moment, one filled with excitement, anticipation, and pride on a day they will never forget.”
As the cadets move forward into the next stages of their careers, including further specialised training, Admiral Radakin’s words underscored the significance of their new responsibilities and the bond they now share. “The bonds of friendship you have forged here in Dartmouth will serve all our nations for many years to come,” he concluded.
These newly-commissioned officers are now ready to embark on their first postings across ships, submarines, or aircraft, where they will continue their professional development and serve globally.
Well it is really forgotten that throughout its history, the Royal Navy has been multi national as the people who served were from across the world