Naval commander Dad has surprise for sailor daughter
Graduation marks family tradition of service in the Royal Navy
A RISING naval star from Southsea has told of her pride – and embarrassment – after her dad made a surprise visit at her promotion ceremony.
Able Seaman Henrietta Goodrum had just graduated from her Leading Rates’ leadership course at HMS Collingwood in Fareham, when she was surprised by her father, 40-year naval veteran Commander Simon Goodrum.
Cdr Goodrum, who is in the final year of his military service, asked to attend the last day of his daughter’s course – a huge milestone in her career – to mark her achievement.
Henrietta said: ‘I was very surprised to see my dad walk through the classroom door, I went bright red with embarrassment. Even though it was very embarrassing, it was a lovely surprise to see my dad and was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for him to present me with my certificate.’
Joining the navy in 2015, she cites the highlights of her career so far as taking part in the November ceremonies at the Cenotaph and the Royal Albert Hall.
She has also been a member of Portsmouth Naval Base’s field gun team, winning an award for ‘best newcomer’.
Selected for promotion to Leading Hand earlier this year and having now completed the course, she is due to join the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe organisation, in Nato headquarters, in Belgium.
When asked about having the honour to present his daughter with her promotion certificate, Cdr Goodrum said: ‘It was a very proud moment for me especially as I am coming to the end of my career.
‘I was very impressed by the enthusiasm and commitment of the students and the professionalism of the staff.
‘It was great to see that the quality of the navy leadership training has continued to develop and improve.’