Plymouth-based Royal Marines have simulated the capturing of a newly built yacht ramp at the Royal Southern Yacht Club, Hamble, in a tribute to their fallen brother in arms, Mne Sam Alexander MC.
The marines, from 42 Commando, stormed the newly constructed ramp using a team of Zodiac fast attack craft before securing the area and taking part in a ceremony to dedicate the landing point in Sam’s memory. The ramp forms part of the recently completed Prince Philip Yacht Haven at the Royal Southern and will enable children to launch dinghies at all states of the tide.
Sam Alexander grew up In Hamble and was a founder member of the Royal Southern’s thriving youth section, ‘Splash’. His zest for life, love of the sea and and his courage were evident as a boy, qualities that did not always endear him to Splash leaders! These qualities were to lead to him becoming a Marine and in 2009 he defended his company, who were under heavy enemy fire from short range, firstly with a heavy machine gun and when running out of ammunition with his 9mm pistol. The whole unit survived and Sam was awarded the Military Cross for his gallantry. On 27 May 2011 he was killed by an IED in Helmand Province.
In his eulogy at the dedication ceremony Lt. Col. Richard Cantrill OBE MC RM, Sam’s Commanding Officer, emphasised the importance of children developing an independence of spirt. Following the dedication ceremony and the procession of dinghies down the slipway Serena, Sam’s mother, commented:
“For my family, it was a deeply moving occasion in celebration of Sam’s life and courage. Having the corps there to pay tribute to him in such a heartfelt fashion was exceptional, and one that has touched us tremendously. It gave us a great sense of pride, not just for Sam but for the whole Royal Marine family who have honoured him so gloriously and continue to put themselves at risk for the sake of others.
“Col Cantrill’s words about how important it is for the young to develop a sense of adventure, independence of spirit and confidence truly emphasises that what we are doing today is for the benefit of others in the future and, on this occasion, particularly for the young people who are our tomorrow.”
The Prince Philip Yacht Haven is the latest in a series of improvement to the facilities at the Royal Southern Yacht Club. The recently completed development provides improved walk ashore access at all states of the tide as well as enhanced shore side facilities with a large quarter deck giving enhanced river views and a splendid partying area. The Club now also has improved car parking in addition to a new sea wall which provides an ecologically friendly habitat for molluscs and all-important flood protection.