A member of Devonport-based Type 23 frigate HMS Argyll has been recognised for his dedicated service to the ship with a special presentation from the ship’s sponsor, Lady Wendy Levene.
Laundryman Hom Thapa, had served in the Gurkha Regiment for 15 years before looking for a new challenge in 1997, when he joined the Laundry Service. He worked on several ships before being assigned to HMS Argyll in 2000 – where he has now served as a loyal member of the ship’s company for 22 years.
During that time, he has deployed on 10 different occasions, including spells off the coast of Africa during the Sierra Leone conflict, the Gulf numerous times, the Far East and to the Caribbean to name but a few. Over the period he has seen 13 Commanding Officers, had 15 Logistics Officers and washed approximately 1.9 million pairs of socks.
A highlight of his time onboard HMS Argyll was when his son, Chet Thapa, joined as his apprentice. But far from an easy ride, Chet soon realised how proficient his father was and had to learn quickly in order to maintain pace. Chet successfully completed his apprenticeship and is now serving in HMS Montrose carrying forward the family tradition and maintaining the high standards he was taught by his father.
“Having basically become part of the ship’s furniture,” said Lieutenant Commander Dan Thomas, HMS Argyll’s Logistics Officer.
“It is timely that Hom will be bidding farewell during the ship’s de-store. Thankfully, he is getting the recognition he deserves and will be joining HMS Albion on promotion, where he will oversee all laundry operations.
“Efficient, professionally competent and a warm and friendly face onboard, he has been an absolute stalwart member of the Argyll family, and on behalf of everybody here today, Hom, I would like to thank you for all your hard work and dedication and wish you the best of luck for the future.”
