British hello fly past in honour of 28th Independence Anniversary on Monday

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, SEPTEMBER 15TH 2011 (CUOPM) – A contingent from the Royal Navy’s RFA Wave Ruler will participate in Monday’s Ceremonial Parade to mark St. Kitts and Nevis’ 28th Independence Anniversary on Monday 19th September, the British High Commission said Thursday.

It said in a release that the ship’s helicopter will also undertake a hello fly past in honour of the celebrations.

It said that the RFA WAVE RULER will make a Regional Engagement Visit to St Christopher and Nevis from the 17th to the 20th September 2011.

“This will be the first time the ship has visited St Kitts although WAVE RULER has previously visited Nevis in September 2006,” the Barbados-based High Commission said.

RFA WAVE RULER has previously been stationed in the Far East, Persian Gulf and as APT(S) (Atlantic Patrol Task (South) in the South Atlantic, supporting the Falkland Islands as well as working in territorial waters around the United Kingdom.

“A significant part of the Royal Navy’s presence is, patrolling the North Atlantic and Caribbean. RFA WAVE RULER’s primary role is to provide support to the UK Overseas territories and strengthen the UK Government’s commitment in the region. This role includes providing regional support in the event of natural disasters such as hurricanes. With an extensive range of disaster relief stores, WAVE RULER is capable of providing food, water and shelter where required. Additionally the ship and her crew can provide medical and humanitarian aid, together with technical assistance utilizing their training, skills, knowledge and experience,” said the statement.

It added: “Whilst at sea working in support of local defence and police forces, from a host of Caribbean nations, together with United States Coast Guard, RFA WAVE RULER conducts maritime patrols.

RFA WAVE RULER and her Commanding Officer Captain Norris (RFA) will host VIPs for a lunch on 18th September.

The Captain was quoted as saying “We are delighted to be in St Kitts especially during Independence Day celebrations.

“Our visit confirms the UK’s continued commitment to the region and close relationship with St. Kitts. WAVE RULER is in the Region to support UK Overseas Territories, provide regional support in the event of natural disasters and contribute to law enforcement. The Ship’s Company are looking forward to the visit and the opportunity to experience St. Kitts,” said the captain.