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AT THE READY: ABELW April Le Cornu prepares to read a scripture to the audience during the commissioning ceremony for HMAS Perth in Fremantle. Photo: ABPH Nadia Monteith |
Volume 49, No. 16 , September 07, 2006
By Hugh McKenzie
Rehearsals for the commissioning of HMAS Perth had been held in pelting squalls across Victoria Quay in Fremantle. But the Gods smiled on the day, August 26, as the ship, eighth and last of her class, joined the fleet before an audience of about 1500 people.
Two further Anzacs were bought by the New Zealand Navy, taking the total number to 10.
Delivering his address the CO, CMDR Simon Gregg, said that he wanted to pay tribute to the shipbuilder and DMO for the delivery of a fine warship.
“She will wear by day and night the commissioning pennant that will denote her as a ship in the service of her country,” he said.
“Wherever she sails Perth will represent Australia and the goodwill of our nation. To the Officers and Ship’s Company in particular, I thank you and congratulate you on achieving this major milestone.
“It reflects highly on your determination to give the best of yourselves to our ship and fills me with pride as your CO. True to our motto, we will Fight and Flourish.”
