The Master of the Worshipful Company of Fuellers, Elena Oderstone, was honoured to attend the 120th Anniversary celebrations of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary at HMS Excellent, Portsmouth.
The day began with a service of thanksgiving at St Barbara’s Church, HMS Excellent, Whale Island, followed by a reception for serving personnel, veterans, families and supporters.
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As an affiliated unit of the Fuellers’ Company, the RFA holds a special place in our history. For more than a century it has served as the “beating heart behind Royal Navy operations,” ensuring the Fleet is never without the vital support it needs. The Fuellers take great pride in the RFA’s global role — sustaining Royal Navy operations worldwide, from humanitarian relief to front-line deployments.
The commemorations took place in the presence of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, Commodore-in-Chief of the RFA and Past Master Fueller, and were led by Commodore Sam Shattock, Head of the RFA.
To mark the occasion, every serving member of the RFA was presented with a specially struck commemorative coin, recognising their contribution to the Service and its proud 120-year history.
Reflecting on the day, Elena Oderstone said:
“It was a privilege to celebrate this milestone with our affiliated unit, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Their service and dedication are remarkable — steadfast, reliable and ready — and the Fuellers are proud of the strong bond we share. To stand among the RFA’s sailors, veterans and families on such a historic occasion was deeply inspiring. The RFA truly fuels the future of our nation’s maritime strength.”
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