Massive turnout as Navy's last Falklands warship departs dock for the final time
A massive crowd flocked to Portsmouth Harbour this week to bid an emotional farewell to the last Royal Navy ship from the Falklands War.
Veterans and the public gathered to see off HMS Bristol as it was towed away on Wednesday, nearly five years after being decommissioned.
The Type 82 destroyer is headed for an EU-approved scrapyard in Turkey, where its parts will be recycled by the Defence Recycling & Disposals Team.
Chris Howe, from the South Atlantic Medal Association 1982, said: "As HMS Bristol embarks on its final voyage to the scrapyard in Turkey, we pause to reflect on its remarkable and unique legacy".
"For many veterans, Bristol was more than a vessel - it was a home, a place of camaraderie, and a symbol of resilience. Its departure marks the end of an era, but its contributions to our history and the memories of those who served aboard will endure.
"We honour all who sailed in her and bid HMS Bristol a respectful farewell."
First commissioned in March 1973, HMS Bristol initially was designed to escort an aircraft carrier that was never built, making it the only warship of its class to enter service.
During the Falklands conflict, it led a group of ships to provide reinforcements before joining the carrier battle task group as an air defence destroyer, reports the Express.
Following the conflict, the Bristol briefly served as the flagship of the Royal Naval fleet in the region.
In 1987, it was converted into a training ship, but an explosion in its boiler led to its repurposing as a harbour training vessel. The ship was eventually decommissioned in October 2020 after 48 years of service.
Alistair Hughes, the head of DRDT, outlined the process to Force News: "Recycling of ships at the end of their hull life is routine business for the Royal Navy.
"Our aim is to achieve maximum value for money for defence in an environmentally compliant manner - HMS Bristol is a fitting example of this after her many dedicated years of service."
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