Sixteen-year-old sailor helps HMS Collingwood mark 85 years of excellence

HMS Collingwood, the Royal Navy's largest training establishment, celebrated 85 years of service with a ceremony featuring its youngest sailor, 16-year-old Able Seaman Above Water Tactical Rosie Coman, at the centre of the festivities.

Since 1940, HMS Collingwood has been a cornerstone of naval training, specialising in warfare and engineering to support front-line operations.

Commanding Officer Captain Tim Davey and AB(AWT) Coman marked the occasion by cutting a specially made birthday cake.

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The Band of His Majesty's Royal Marines, Collingwood, added to the celebrations, playing Happy Birthday as Phase 2 sailors from Victory Squadron gathered to join in.

Speaking to those assembled, Captain Davey reflected on the milestone, saying: "Today marks a special birthday in HMS Collingwood's history as we celebrate 85 years of the establishment delivering first-class training in support of frontline operations.

"Thank you to ESS for providing this amazing cake for us today and the members of the RM Band who have made this a truly memorable occasion."

Slices of cake were shared among attendees, wrapping up a ceremony that honoured HMS Collingwood's rich history and its vital role in shaping the Royal Navy.