'Above And Beyond The Call Of Duty': HMS Talent Crew Members Win New Navy Award

A team on board HMS Talent have become the first recipients of a new award that recognises those who go "above and beyond the call of duty".

The sonar team from the veteran hunter-killer submarine have become the inaugural recipients of a Royal Navy Commendation.

The "eyes and the ears" of the crew, the sonar team has stood out in particular during two years that have seen HMS Talent heavily in demand, the Royal Navy said. 

The new award replaces the commendations presented by the Fleet Commander for operational effectiveness, as well as the commendations presented by the Sea Lord recognising efforts across all lines of development.

Both awards have been merged to enhance their significance and put emphasis on the honour as a special moment in someone’s career, the Navy added.

The sonar team is responsible for listening out for potential threats to the Trafalgar-class boat, searching for hostile submarines, boats and aircraft.

They’ve been recognised for demonstrating excellent leadership and dedication despite the pressures facing the small team.

Commander Paul Jamieson, HMS Talent, said: "The award of the first Royal Navy Commendation to Talent’s sonar department is a significant achievement, and justly reflects the hard work and dedication that each member of the team has consistently demonstrated while on operations."

The submarine has been busy in recent times, helping to teach the submarine commanders of tomorrow by hosting trainees on the Silent Service’s famous command course, Perisher.

HMS Talent has also been working with the new P-8A Poseidon aircraft, as well as linking up with HMS Queen Elizabeth to develop tactics used to protect the aircraft carrier.

Cover image: HMS Talent in Clyde last year (Picture: MOD).