A group of Royal Navy personnel who played key roles in protecting merchant vessels against missile and drone attacks in the Middle East have been honored in the New Year and Operational Honours list, approved by The King. Thirty-two members of the Senior Service are recognized for their courageous efforts, including nine officers and ratings who served in the Red Sea and Gulf of Yemen during the winter and spring of 2022-23.
These sailors were directly involved in operations against Houthi rebels, who were indiscriminately targeting commercial shipping, and in orchestrating complex missions to secure vital maritime routes between the Middle East and the Mediterranean.
Among those honored is Commander Pete Evans, Commanding Officer of HMS Diamond, who earned an OBE for his exceptional leadership during a high-stakes deployment. Under constant threat of attack, the Type 45 destroyer successfully intercepted nine drones and a Houthi missile. Commander Evans credits his ship’s crew for their bravery and professionalism in the face of relentless danger.
“I’m incredibly proud of HMS Diamond’s ship’s company, who showed an incredible amount of professionalism and bravery in the Red Sea,” Evans said. “It was their actions that kept the merchant mariners in the region safe.”
Several former crew members of Diamond, including Able Seaman Warfare Specialist M. Winton, have also been recognized. Winton was mentioned in dispatches for successfully shooting down an enemy drone with a 30mm cannon, manually targeting the drone without the aid of technology, an act that helped protect the lives of civilian sailors aboard a merchant vessel.
Commander Rich Kemp, who led HMS Richmond during its mission to relieve Diamond in the region, also received an OBE. Under his command, the Richmond intercepted two attack drones during its 35-day mission in the high-threat area.
Commander David Armstrong, who served as deputy commander of an international naval group, is awarded the King’s Commendation for Valuable Service for his leadership and diplomatic skill in Bahrain. His efforts contributed to the success of Combined Task Force 150, which seized 22 tonnes of illegal narcotics during his tenure.
Warrant Officer 1 Nick Ollive is honored with an MBE for his outstanding service to the Royal Marines. As the Corps Regimental Sergeant Major, Ollive served as a key advisor and leader, making a significant impact on the Royal Marines’ operations.
Commander Teilo Elliot-Smith, who led HMS Tamar on the Royal Navy’s overseas patrol ship programme, is awarded an OBE for his contributions to the UK’s “Indo-Pacific tilt” and the Royal Navy’s long-term mission in Asia and the Far East.
In addition to these awards, several senior officers received honors, including knighthoods for General Gwyn Jenkins, Commandant General of the Royal Marines, and Vice Admiral Martin Connell, Second Sea Lord. Rear Admiral Jude Terry, the Royal Navy’s first female admiral, is made a Companion of the Order of the Bath for her significant contributions to the Royal Navy and wider Defence.
This year’s combined honours list highlights the bravery, leadership, and dedication of Royal Navy personnel who have served under intense and often dangerous conditions to protect vital maritime interests.
