PERSONNEL at HM Naval Base Clyde bid a fond farewell to Captain Gibbons on Thursday, June 1, as he handed-over the role of Captain HMS Neptune.

Captain Gibbons arrived at HMNB Clyde in July 2019 and for the past four years has held the position of Captain of HMS Neptune and Captain of the Base. His role has overseen the land establishment at the site which provides accommodation, logistics, welfare, and support services to around 7,000 personnel at Clyde.

He will hand over the reins to the capable hands of Captain Boyd who comes to HMNB Clyde following a brief tour in the Force Generation area of Navy Command. During her 20 years in the Royal Navy, Captain Boyd has spent time on worldwide operations at sea and ashore, including an operational tour in Afghanistan.

Captain Gibbons is retiring from the Royal Navy after 35-years’ service and his friends and colleagues came along to wave him off as he left the Base in true Naval style, on board HMS Raider accompanied by his wife Sarah.

“It has been an honour to serve in this unique and beautiful part of the world. The Base delivers Defence’s priority mission and to be part of that community, including military, Civil service and our Industrial Partners has been a real honour; the pace is relentless,” said Captain Gibbons.

“The UK’s submarine base was an unexpected location for an aviator to complete his Naval Service, but one I would not change. My family has been made to feel so welcome in the area, it is going to be difficult to leave. I wish all Base staff and their families the very best of luck for the future.”

Established in 1968, HMS Neptune is the land establishment at HM Naval Base Clyde responsible for providing essential services to the military personnel working and living at the site, as well as the civilian staff who utilise the facilities in their roles supporting the Royal Navy fleet from the Clyde.