The last day of the the MGBs

The day finally came for the main "work horse" of the Navy (from the late 1970s to mid-2000s) .... The Missile Gun Boats (MGBs) to retire. After some 33 years of active service, the 6 ships (SEA WOLF, SEA LION, SEA DRAGON, SEA TIGER, SEA HAWK & SEA SCORPION) had to call it a day. To the motto of "SWIFT & SURE", Officers & Crew (Past & Present) came together on 13 May 08 for the last Sunset Ceremony for the 6 ships.

Whilst my earlier days of FLEETBOARD TRAINING were onboard RSS SEA HAWK, had also served onboard RSS SEA TIGER as the Gunnery Officer (GO) and onboard RSS SEA LION as the Executive Officer (XO). Finally took Command of RSS SEA HAWK and was the Squadron Operations Officer (S3) of 185 Squadron. The MGBs had been part & parcel of my naval training as a Strike Officer.

As the 17th Commanding Officer (CO) of RSS SEA HAWK, I was also the 1st CO of the new generation MGB, after it had undergone a mid-life upgrade. Among the list of Commanding Officers was Ex-CNV, RADM(NS) Lui Tuck Yew (SMS for Education).

At the reception, past crew recalled the many tales of serving onboard the ships. Many could remember (to details) some of their times onboard, be it an overseas trip, missile firing or just routine patrols. Indeed many friends were made within the squadron.
Many of the friendships made, remained till this day, despite the trial of time. Many are already into their 2nd career but the time spent onboard these 45m ships remained in their respective memories.