First command pins awarded to honour Royal Fleet Auxiliary leadership and vital service

The Royal Fleet Auxiliary has introduced new command pins, recognising the leadership and expertise of its senior officers as the service marks its 120th anniversary.

The inaugural presentation of the command pins took place during a visit from Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard to RFA Proteus, where Commodore Sam Shattock and Captain Martin Jones received the pins.

The command pin was introduced in celebration of the RFA's 120th anniversary, an important milestone for the service that has provided logistical and operational support to the Royal Navy for more than a century.

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The pin design mirrors the Royal Navy's own, with a trident, crossed swords beneath a naval crown and two heraldic sea horses, symbolising sea power.

The pins specifically honour the leadership and experience of RFA commanding officers, whose work in partnership with the Royal Navy is crucial to maritime security and global operations.

"It was a pleasure to receive the command pin from the Fleet Commander today on board RFA Proteus," Cdre Shattock said.

"The award of the pin to RFA commanding officers is an appreciated recognition of the continued professional development, skills, leadership, and management required of RFA captains, along with the many years of seafaring experience," he added.

RFA Proteus, the venue for the ceremony, is the first of a new generation of survey and surveillance ships designed to protect critical underwater infrastructure.

The presentation of the command pins coincides with broader reforms within the RFA, including a recently agreed pay deal and modernisation plan aimed at recognising and supporting its workforce.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Pollard said: "The RFA makes a vital contribution to keeping the UK secure at home and strong abroad, not least our colleagues on the RFA Proteus who I had the privilege of visiting today.

"They excel at supporting our Armed Forces around the world and it's only right that they are recognised for their work."