On Thursday 23 October, Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) and the White Ensign Association (WEA) hosted a very special dinner in the Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich.
The event, which marked the 220th anniversary of the victory at the Battle of Trafalgar and the death of Admiral Lord Nelson, was attended by the Patron of RNRMC, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, and Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence with Michael Portillo delivering the keynote address.
This year’s dinner brought together over 350 guests, including headline sponsors – Babcock, BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin and Oaklin – alongside loyal supporters, local Greenwich residents, industry partners, friends of both charities, veterans and senior serving members of the Royal Navy.
The evening embraced naval traditions, including the ceremonial ‘Parading of the Beef’, chocolate ‘Ships of the Line’, a stirring performance of mess beatings by the Corps of Drums from the Royal Marines Band Service, and rousing sea shanties – all of which added to the maritime spirit of the occasion.
Reflecting on the evening, Samantha Nicolson Interim CEO of RNRMC remarked:
“It was fantastic to co-host another memorable Trafalgar Night at the Painted Hall with the White Ensign Association and an honour for it to once again be in the presence of HRH The Princess Royal. Nights like these remind us of the strength and spirit which continue to drive RNRMC and WEA forward in support of the Naval Community.”
Commodore Stuart Wright, Chief Executive of the White Ensign Association said:
“It is a privilege to have partnered with RNRMC to mark the 220th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar, a defining moment in our nation’s naval history. The men and women in today’s fleet do their duty just as the sailors and marines in Nelson’s fleet did over two centuries ago and so, alongside the RNRMC, it is an honour to support them, our veterans and their families.”
Both organisations continue to play a vital role in supporting serving personnel, veterans, and their families, ensuring that the legacy of service and sacrifice is never forgotten.
