A Royal Navy officer whose ship has delivered blows to both drug smugglers and terrorists in 2022 has been decorated in the King’s first Operational Honours for the forces.
Commander Claire Thompson will receive the OBE on her return to the UK, in recognition of her deeds and accomplishments captaining Plymouth-based HMS Montrose in the Gulf.
The frigate has proved to be one of the Royal Navy’s most successful and effective warships this year, with Commander Thompson and her 200-strong team of sailors and Royal Marines scoring four major drugs busts, plus two illegal arms caches.
The frigate is homeward bound, due back in Plymouth next month after more than four years away from the UK.
Commander Thompson said:
“The success of HMS Montrose over that period is well documented but the selfless commitment of the men and women who serve in her must be highlighted as without them none of that success is possible.
“In addition to those on board there are also the families and friends we leave behind, yet who support us wholeheartedly in our endeavours and therefore also deserve to be recognised in moments such as these.
“I really cannot wait to get back to the UK next month for a homecoming that was always going to be good but with this news will now be truly very special.”
