HMS Hermes (R12): A Glimpse of Glory as the Legendary Carrier Departs Pompey in 1981
HMS Hermes (R12): A Glimpse of Glory as the Legendary Carrier Departs Pompey in 1981
In 1981, the HMS Hermes (R12), a storied aircraft carrier of the Royal Navy, made a dramatic departure from Portsmouth, known affectionately as Pompey. This moment marked a significant chapter in the history of British naval aviation.
The HMS Hermes was a symbol of naval power and technological advancement. Commissioned in 1959, the Hermes was one of the largest and most capable carriers of its time. With a full-length flight deck and advanced facilities for launching and recovering aircraft, it played a pivotal role in numerous operations, including the Falklands War in 1982.
As the HMS Hermes prepared to leave Portsmouth, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and pride. The ship’s departure was not merely a routine sailing but a momentous event for the Royal Navy and the city of Portsmouth. The carrier’s sleek form and imposing size commanded respect, and its departure was watched by thousands of spectators, both from the shore and from the surrounding waters.
The journey from Pompey in 1981 was part of a broader strategic redeployment, reflecting the changing priorities and global commitments of the Royal Navy. It was a time of transition, as the HMS Hermes continued to demonstrate its versatility and importance in the fleet.
For those witnessing the departure, it was a poignant reminder of the ship’s storied past and its crucial role in British maritime history. The HMS Hermes would go on to serve with distinction until its decommissioning, but this moment in 1981 remains a celebrated chapter in its illustrious career.
