Recognition for HMS Daring crew on Middle East mission

BRITISH sailors who braved the threat of missile attack to protect merchant ships in the Middle East will be awarded a new medal clasp.

The Queen has agreed a new clasp, the Gulf of Aden Clasp, will be awarded to the crew of the Type 45 destroyer HMS Daring for operations during a period of significant threat in the Bab al-mandeb strait in 2016.

The mission began after an attack on a merchant vessel, the MV Swift, off the coast of Yemen in October 2016. Portsmouth-based HMS Daring was already headed to the area at the start of a nine-month deployment on maritime security operations.

The destroyer and her 260-strong crew then conducted 20 patrols of the area threatened by land-based missiles and explosive boats in the hands of Houthi rebels.

With the ship’s advanced surveillance radar and Sea Viper missile system, they ensured the critical choke point for world trade remained free flowing. HMS Daring’s crew operated for 50 days under threat of attack, safeguarding 800,000 tons of merchant shipping. Gavin Williamson, the Defence Secretary, said: “Maritime trade is the lifeblood of Britain’s economy and the Royal Navy plays a key role in protecting important trade routes.

“The extraordinary achievements of HMS Daring’s ship’s company, under constant missile threat, is a testament to the skill and bravery of the men and women of the Navy.

“Their award of the Gulf of Aden Clasp is thoroughly deserved and they should wear it with pride.”

Sailors and Royal Marines who were on board at the time will be awarded the clasp, which is worn with the General Service Medal, later this year. Those who do not already possess the medal will be awarded it.

Commander Phil Dennis, who was the commanding officer of HMS Daring at the time of the operation, said: “This is wonderful recognition of the immense efforts of my team in HMS Daring during such a vital mission which ultimately helped protect Britain’s economy and safeguard world trade.”