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An informal but important aspect of Royal Navy life was staged in St Peter Port Harbour this week, as one captain handed over control of his vessel to the new captain.
Lieutenant William De La Mare had brought HMS Puncher to Guernsey for a week to see out the Coronation and Liberation Day celebrations.
While here, the five-strong crew - led by their Guernsey-born captain - took part in parades for both occasions and welcomed visitors aboard their vessel.
Pictured: (l) Lieutenant Snow has sailed HMS Puncher out of Guernsey waters, with (r) Lieutenant De La Mare staying on for a few days to catch up with family and friends.
Lt De La Mare had been Commanding Officer of HMS Puncher since October, 2021.
He is staying in Guernsey on leave for a few days before returning to the UK where he'll be assigned to a new role. He told Express that is likely to be as navigator of a larger ship - meaning he will remain in the same rank of Lieutenant but will be a senior officer, helping his progression up the Royal Navy ranks as he works towards his ultimate aim of commanding a Type 23 Frigate.
Prior to its short visit to Guernsey, HMS Puncher had been helping with migrant operations in the English Channel. Lt De La Mare said his crew were patrolling areas and providing assistance to the Border Force where needed.
"I've wanted to take the ship to Guernsey the whole time I've been Commanding Officer," he said, "but for one reason or another we couldn't make it.
"My timetable freed up and I asked if we could take her to Guernsey and do the Coronation and Liberation Day weekend there and we are."
Lieutenant Snow flew in to Guernsey to join the five-strong crew of engineers and logistics personnel. They were due to set sail today, to continue their work training Commanding Officers and assisting other crews.
Pictured top: (l) Lieutenant Snow is the new captain of HMS Puncher replacing (r) Lieutenant De La Mare.
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