HMS Duncan has returned to Portsmouth harbor just in time for Christmas, bringing joy to the families of the 200 sailors who were on board during their six-month deployment. The Type 45 destroyer was welcomed home after covering over 36,000 nautical miles during its mission.
The ship was originally dispatched to replace HMS Diamond, stationed in the Red Sea to maintain shipping lanes amid threats from Yemeni Houthi rebels. Yet, as regional tensions intensified with the Israel-Hamas conflict, the mission shifted focus to the Eastern Mediterranean. Throughout this deployment, HMS Duncan collaborated with 21 allied warships, solidifying operational partnerships necessary for ensuring regional stability.
Despite wet and windy conditions, nearly 1,000 family members gathered at Portsmouth Naval Base, waving flags and holding welcome signs, showcasing their unwavering support. The emotional homecoming captured the spirit of togetherness, as parents, partners, and friends embraced their sailors coming off the jetty.
Leading Hand Andrew Lynch, part of HMS Duncan's logistics team, reflected on the bonds created during the challenging mission. "When I return home, when I’m finally reunited with the faces I’ve missed so terribly, I will carry a piece of this experience with me — the friends I’ve made... these will be part of who I am, who I’ve become," he shared, echoing the sentiments many held for their loved ones after extensive periods of separation.
The ship spent 125 days at sea during this deployment, engaging significantly through air defense operations. Cdr Dan Lee, HMS Duncan’s commanding officer, praised his crew’s remarkable dedication and professionalism, noting their operations alongside NATO allies from nations like Germany, Italy, and Canada. The crew performed nearly 400 helicopter landings, underlining the volume of aerial activity managed during operations.
During their time at sea, the sailors consumed astonishing amounts of provision: over 31,000 eggs, nearly 50,000 kilograms of butter, and 3,000 kilograms of chicken. This small statistic provides a glimpse of the everyday realities faced by those aboard the destroyer.
HMS Duncan is recognized not only for its operational effectiveness — so much so it earned the Destroyer Trophy at the Fleet Efficiency Awards for the second consecutive year — but also for the virtue of resilience shown by its crew. Some of the sailors have endured 12 months of deployment over the last two years. This situation takes its toll, as Engineering Technician Bradley Jones articulated, “Having endured another long deployment onboard HMS Duncan, I can say without hesitation I have developed a deep gratitude for the friends and family I have back home. No words can do justice to what it's like being deployed.”
The mission came with its share of challenges and intense emotions, yet it was also marked by moments of hope and camaraderie. The relationships developed among the crew helped alleviate the hardships faced during their time away from home. Able Rating (Above Water Warfare) David Jackson noted, "The unique stops and strong sense of community of our Ship’s Company helped everyone get through the tougher times, and come through to the end stronger. The opportunity to work with allied nations across NATO was also very enriching for many aboard.”
Upon arrival, Cdr Lee expressed pride in his ship's company, reinforcing the idea of commitment to their duties and the importance of family. "I could not be prouder of my ship's company and all they have achieved during this challenging six-month deployment. They stepped up at every opportunity, displaying remarkable dedication, professionalism, and an unwavering sense of duty,” he said during the welcome home celebrations.
After spending the festive period with their families, the sailors will prepare for their return to active duty after the holidays. The HMS Duncan’s crew exemplifies the spirit of the Royal Navy, embodying dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to their mission at sea. This homecoming not only celebrates their service but also highlights the importance of family support when facing the trials of deployment.