Guards of Honour bid farewell to Gibraltar's Governor as four-year-stint comes to an end
Vice Admiral Sir David Steel has bid a ceremonial farewell to Gibraltar, marking the end of his tenure as Governor and Commander-in-Chief.
VAdm Sir David was the head of the British enclave on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, also known as the Rock, for four years.
His departure began at the historic Convent, the Governor's official residence, where he was met by two Guards of Honour.
These were comprised of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment and Essential Services personnel, with Royal Navy personnel providing a special Convent Guard, a nod to VAdm Sir David's esteemed naval career.
After receiving a Royal Salute, he inspected the personnel.
VAdm Sir David reflected on his tenure, saying: "In the last four years, I've seen thousands of you from every branch of the Armed Forces and those in support doing the most incredible work quietly, efficiently getting on with your work.
"In the last four years, I've had absolutely nothing to do with the Armed Forces in Gibraltar except support you from a distance. Why is that?
"Because you are so professional. Every day of the week, 365 days of the year, you are supporting UK defence interests and Gibraltar's defence interests.
"It is an astonishing track record. For four years, all I have received is daily reports or monthly reports from the tower. I didn't need to get involved at all.
"But all I've done is support you from a distance. And it's been an honour and a privilege to do so."
Following a second Royal Salute, he handed over The Keys to the Port Sergeant, a symbolic gesture steeped in tradition.
The Port Sergeant then marched the keys into the Convent, marking the formal end of VAdm Sir David's official duties.
Sir David's farewell continued with a walk up Main Street, where he paused to bid personal farewells to key figures in Gibraltar's civic life.
Outside the Courts, he exchanged parting words with the Chief Justice, then moved to the Cathedral to say goodbye to religious leaders.
In the Lobby of Parliament, he shared farewells with Madam Speaker and Members of Parliament, before making his way to City Hall to bid adieu to Her Worship the Mayor.
A visit to the Royal Gibraltar Regiment Association in Irish Town allowed Sir David to say goodbye to its members, highlighting his close ties with the local military community. He then proceeded to the Naval base to offer his farewells to Ministry of Defence personnel.
The day culminated with the Chief Minister escorting VAdm Sir David to the airport for a final farewell.
As he boarded the aircraft, Thomson's Battery of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment fired a resounding 17-gun salute, a tribute to his service.
Related topics
Join Our Newsletter
