The Police Marine Unit, Fire Service and the Department of Disaster Management, in Anguilla, have all benefitted from training in the latest techniques and support provided during this week’s visit by RFA Fort George, a Royal Fleet Navy Auxiliary Ship, on a service tour to the Caribbean Overseas Territories. The ship arrived in Anguilla on Sunday, July 26, for a four-day visit.

Captain Kehoe and Officers

“The primary reason we are here is that if there should be a hurricane or [other] natural disaster affecting the Overseas Territories we will be there hopefully within the first 12 to 24 hours to provide as much assistance as we can…, and to help the local governments to get back on their feet,” Commanding Officer Paul Kehoe told reporters aboard the large ship on Tuesday.

The Captain went on: “This is a big ship and we are carrying quite a lot of stores on board. These include emergency generators, water, jerry cans – all the sort stuff we will expect to need if an island got hit. The first thing you would want to do is get the houses secured, fresh water to people and help get the electricity service stations back up and running.” He estimated that up to 70 members of his crew could be deployed at shore to render assistance.

RFA Fort Geroge anchored off Road Bay

He said the ship had so far done very little drug intervention, but was always looking out for narcotics. “Later on in our deployment out here I expect to become more heavily involved in doing counter drugs and interdiction operations,” he stated.
RFA Fort George, which is equipped with suitable self-defence capabilities, has a complement of 142 officers and other ratings. There is a large two-spot flight deck and hanger which and can accommodate up to five helicopters. In addition to general stores, the ship, with a length of 206 metres and a beam of 30 meters, serves as a fleet support tanker.

Captain Kehoe addressing local reporters

Early during the ship's visit, Captain Kehoe paid courtesy calls on Governor Alistair Harrison, Chief Minister Osbourne Fleming and other members of Government and Commissioner of Police, Keithly Benjamin. The Captain and his officers also hosted a lunch for Government officials on board the ship.

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