There's a ship lies rigged and ready in the harbor Tomorrow for old England she sails Far away from your land of endless sunshine To my land full of rainy skies and gales And I shall be aboard that ship tomorrow Though my heart is full of tears at this farewell For you are beautiful, and I have loved you dearly More dearly than the spoken word can tell For you are beautiful, and I have loved you dearly More dearly than the spoken word can tell I've heard there's a wicked war a-blazing And the taste of war I know so very well Even now I see the foreign flag a-raising Their guns on fire as we sail into Hell I have no fear of death, it brings no sorrow But how bitter will be this last farewell For you are beautiful, and I have loved you dearly More dearly than the spoken word can tell For you are beautiful, and I have loved you dearly More dearly than the spoken word can tell Though death and darkness gather all about me And my ship be torn apart upon the seas I shall smell again the fragrance of these islands And the heaving waves that brought me once to thee And should I return safe home again to England I shall watch the English mist roll through the dale For you are beautiful, I have loved you dearly More dearly than the spoken word can tell For you are beautiful, I have loved you dearly More dearly than the spoken word can tell
I am retired U.S.Navy veteran and this was a beautiful tribute to a great lady. I salute all of you who sang, and served with such love. I fully understand, and have lived to have loved more than six ships on which I served between 1964-1995. FAIR WINDS SHIPMATES. Wonderful Salute brought tears to a 75 yr. old Sailor
I've just been in tears watching this, my dad, Anthony(Tony) Callow was on the Ark in the mid 70's.She was his last ship and he loved her. We played Sailing by the Ships Company and RM Band of HMS Ark Royal at his funeral in 1999 and everybody broke down in tears.
Hi Dawn. I'm very happy to hear you have been in tears. She was my first ship when I was 17yo. I'm sorry for your loss, we have the duty watch for now. Rest in Peace Tony. They were amazing days. Be sure to look at some more videos on my channel, there is a great deal of Ark Royal Cine film here. I am very proud to be able to say that my voice is in there some where.
When I see this type of video and and read nout all these wndeful people who serve and have served our Country in peace and war I feel proud to be British and a big thank to all those brave men and women. "Thank you"
Wonderful, always brings back a tear. My late Dad was a Signalman in Royal Navy in WW2. Back when we had proper discipline and Britain was great. Sadly a distant memory now. Huge thanks to all our services and those who serve.
I too was moved to watery eyes. I served 20 years in the U.S. Navy, and in the 70's, I was with the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt at Naval Station Mayport Florida; guess who visited several times at Naval Station Mayport when I was a young Sailor in the 70's? None other than the Mighty HMS Ark Royal (R09). Though I was in the U.S. Navy, and our Aircraft Carriers were a tad larger, I grew affectioned with intense interest of the "Ark" with that oversized Bridle Arresting Horn on her bow. I met a few British Sailors back then whenever she was in port; most of them, at that time, kind of stayed away from me, I guess because I was a Black Sailor, but I tried to make Friends. But I grew affectionate with the "Ark" and tried to find out as much about her as I could. It seemed to me that they retired her much too early, and when the Falklands war broke out, I'll bet the British Government at that time had wished that the Ark Royal was still in commission. By the way, I have "ties" with the UK as I was stationed at Naval Communications Station Thurso Scotland from 1982 to 1984. Miss the Mighty Girl, and the way she graced the seas, and protected the British Homeland!
I well remember my time in Mayport, altho I was with 892 Squadron so we shipped out to NAS Cecil Field. Your colour had nothing to do with it, I can assure you. The day I joined up I met my first black sailor and in my 12 years I never once met an ounce of any form of racism in the navy, in fact quite the opposite. My Leading Cook down south in the Falklands was an amazing black sailor and Ark had a real star on the flight deck crew who was black. Perhaps we were mostly a white crew, but not one Royal Navy Sailor I know of has an ounce of racism in his bones. As for the comment 'a tad larger' oh fuck yes, I remember being in Norfolk VA when we moored alongside NIMITZ. jeez she was huge. There is cine film of that event somewhere on this channel.
@@Super8Rescue Hi Mate; Thanks for your eloquent post; cheers to "The Ark!" I was not implying, nor did I say or was inferring that your Mates were racist; just saying that they seemed very cautious and/or stand offish when I approached them or tried to make Friends, and don't forget, those were different times, especially in America with the "race" thing. And I learned that it was not necessarily the case in Europe or the UK; as I lived in Scotland for 1.5 years at Naval Communications Station in Thurso Scotland 82-84, and Stuttgart Germany from 88 to 90. I felt at home in Europe when I lived and was stationed there and the race thing did not really exist or I felt that it didn't; it was more so a thing of curiosity about me from the stares that I got as most people had never seen a black person. But I loved "The Ark," and my British Mates (America's Mother the UK). Thanks Mate. And oh, the American Carriers are huge; my nation has always strived to be bigger and better but most times bigger and better doesn't mean that you have THE advantage over your enemy. Carry on Shipmate, Cheers to the "Mighty Ark, and God speed to you all!
@@Super8Rescue Was stationed at NAS Cecil Field many times during my 20 year career. It is still there but no longer a military Naval Base. Fond memories of those times so long ago. I do remember in the 70's, British Sailors being at Cecil from "The Ark." I'll bet you were one of them! Cheers Mate!
I am also one of the many voices on this and the words convey how I feel about my time on the Ark. Best days of my life and the best decision of my life to join the Royal Navy. AB(R) Scouse Elder 4WZ mess.
Well done and more power to you. The Ark Royal and her crews were not just a ship and a complement of sailors but rather, they were the embodiment of all that was good and great about Britain and The Royal Navy. I was an engineer officer in the Merchant Navy for 40+ years and felt nothing but respect for our "Grey Funnel Line" compatriots.
I hope you tube stays as I shared this with my 4 year grandson we sat and watched it yesterday. I had tears in my eyes great post great memories and yes I was singing this too.
Roger Whitaker and The Last Farewell has been a song I've loved since my Mom played it on 8 track when I was really young! It brings tears to my eyes with this video! As an ex ABH3 in the US Navy I think it may have solidified my desire to be a sailor since those young days! God Bless all those who've served their nations sailing the seas!
I love this and have done for 40 years! I need to explain that I first heard it in the maternity ward as I gave birth to my first child - a perfect son! What an entrance to the world for my boy! Thank you to the ship's company for the fanfare and the cheer! 💙💞🤣
My Home for Two years in 4R2 mess... brilliant memories...I did quite a bit on the ships TV as an entertainer with my oppo Brum Mahon...we were known as "Cabbage and Green" ... the Video brought tears to my eyes of being privy to one of my best life experiences... I also was one of the singers amongst our ship's company singing the last farewell, Sailing/The Wombling Song/Remember You're A Womble/You'll Never walk alone/land of hope and glory. with The Royal Marines HMS Ark Royal Band.
I was aboard this ship in Port Everglades. Florida. I was 15 . I remember that ship. F-4s and an anti submarine aircraft with a propeller on each end. I got a distinct impression that the Royal Navy is not one to mess with. Still true. Best wishes from the Sunshine State!
Fort Lauderdale was one of the best places to visit. In 1976 we were over run with visitors who wanted to take sailors home for a weekend. Lauderdale is very special, I had relatives in the Naples, so a drive across alligator alley in a rental car was done a few times.
@@daleeasternbrat816 it was all smoke and mirrors, she was on her last legs. Poor old thing had been falling to peices, how she made it home without sinking I don't know. :)
@@Super8Rescue To me, at 15, she represented the Royal Navy at it's best. If she was was smoke and mirrors , well, I enjoyed being aboard her anyway! I hope her large , new sisters visit, if they can fit.
@@Super8Rescue Grippo`s loved them.x Same as on Bulwark when l was in 40cdo at Fort Lauderdale the Yanks made us feel so welcome. Good times. Then on Fearless two years later in Miami were adopted by the locals again!
I was there when they recorded this, the BBC producer was as camp as a row of tents and kept getting annoyed with us...that led to another song for him....Zulu warrior.
I was with Able Seaman G C for most of his navy career.He was a very known DJ in the Navy.In the 70’s late 80’s … Costello I will always love you and be proud of you…HMS Raleigh go forth x
Thank you for sharing this, I have looked for it for ages. I was one of the voices on this and was on the farewell trip. It was a very emotional experience and many of us sang with a tear in our eyes.
I worked on the flight deck of the American aircraft carrier USS Independence and we sailed together for awhile back in 75, a couple of your Phantoms landed on our flight deck and the aircrew toured the ship before returning to the Ark Royal. It was fun and I was young.
There are photos of the RN Phantoms on board the USN carried and vice versa on the net. Unfortunately back then we didn’t have phones with good photo and video capabilities so we don’t have too much high resolution stuff from the past
Was in Mess 4R3 824 Squadron. Amazing time. Watching launches breathtaking. Always remember looking at the SARS up and thinking how glad where that they were up when needed.
Great video. She was a beauty. My dad served on her, Eagle and was the Buffer on the Invincible during the Falklands conflict. Whenever I see these old girls I immediately remember their smell and the acoustics.
Indeed she was plus my nan served tea to The Queen on the 1950 launch of its namesake and being a native of Birkenhead and former 'Laird worker it's in our blood. Thanks for this.
@@DaveSCameron This was that 1950's "namesake" But what you see is her post 1967-70 refit when her deck was enlarged to operate the Phantom F4K P.S. it was the Queen Mother who launched her
@@henryvagincourt4502 Ajax, Malcom, Dundus, Hardy, and finally the Tiger. You will note every ship l had in sequence the hull got older! My next draft might have been the Titanic!🙃
@@thetourettesgamer8851 services to join RAF first fleet air arm next navy next army are worst ..... but in any case get a education lower rates are not well treated but if u thick like me join up as a urk
@@michaelb9529 I know it's called the Last Farewell, that's why I titled the Video The Last Farewell. I am also very aware Roger Whittaker had a hit with this, along with Durham town and many other hits I remember. Thanks anyway for your comment. This is a version by the ships company much loved by all of us who appear in the recording, myself included. th-cam.com/video/sGWs1HK8iDU/w-d-xo.html
The ministry of defence has now screwed up British history, for ther is not an hms ark royal in service. The name ark royal is iconic in the royal naval history. The Royal Navy will never be complete until an ark royal is back in service.
Dennis AWS I think he was, sadly he passed away 2 years ago on the 26th May, but I always remember him talking about his time on Ark Royal and we had the recording at home of the last farewell.
very moving, my grandfather was on the first Ark Royal during the war and one of the last off , because he volunteered to go down and get the code books, after it was torpedoed. i think his job was to be in charge of "the big guns," im sure that's what he said when i was a kid
a Yankee air crew threw me his helmet as he took off from the deck I still have it that my was in 1978 guess it's for keeps now great ship great times great post sir pip pip! ex wafoo fire man on deck 75-78
This version of the Ark Royal was the first purpose built Fleet Aircraft Carrier. During its design the had to make it lighter to add speed. So they removed half the rivets and replaced them by welding the plates on its hull. By getting rid of the rivets and thus no need to over lap the plates they saved 10,000 pounds allowing her to increase speed to 31 knots per hour allowing her to keep up with her escorts
I saw her sister ship, HMS Eagle, pass very close to the troopship HMT Asturias, that my family [dad in the R. Sigs.] was on. We were in the Indian Ocean not far from Aden. It was in 1955 [we were on our way to Hong Kong] - the Eagle had Sea Hawks, Gannets, and Sikorsky type choppers, arrayed on the flight deck.
My 83 year old father served on both Eagle and the Ark Royal. I found this channel purely by chance yesterday and plan on showing him the footage next time I see him. I think he served from the mid 50's until 1970 and left the navy when he got married. to my mum. He was in Aden and Borneo
My father was a Firefighter deck handler on her during the early sixties. Great years Arthur Broughton was his name. Wonderful memories of the far east fleet. Anyone who remembers him and those wonderful days please let us know. His son Stephen.
@@williamjordan5554 it is but i guess but that’s not just it, the song is also about about that love of ones homeland and all it’s character and hearing the line to my home land of rainy skies and gales just makes me feel patriotic inside
Hi Michael I doubt if you knew him but my Uncle FCPO Stoker/MEM Mike (Jan) Tarrant served most of his career on The Ark, he Adored her , I think that's where my Sister and I get it from, neither of us can listen to "Sailing" without welling up the Most Fantastic Piece of music Ever
She is a great name for a carrier. The Royal Navy has a lot of great names in its history for capital ships. Far too many for all to be used at the present time.
For around 300 years there was NO Ark Royal serving in the fleet! After the Armada, the next ship wasn't until around the 1920s. however I would personally have loved PoW to be renamed as Ark Royal, or what about one of the new Dreadnought subs?
@Daniel Kinder thank you. It was the perfect send off. The Navy even did a fly past as we left the crematorium. Nice touch. According to his logbook, and I may have missed a few, dad flew Sea Venoms, Sea Vixens, Sea Hawks, Hunters and the F4. He was also an air warfare instructor.
I have been on this ship, and many many other Royal navy ships as a cadet, the biggest mistake i ever made was not enrolling fully, The Ark Royal was the biggest and most fearsome aircraft carrier in the world, was a pleasure to be on it, but sad to see what greedy government cuts did too it. Rule, Britannia! Britannia, rule the waves! England never, never, never shall be slaves.
I vaguely remember seeing a video of this recording with the RMB on the hanger deck. I had the LP from that session at one time . I DO remember being on the Hoe at Guzz when she left port for the last time. I’d say most of Plymouth came out to say goodbye . Still emotional now hearing these young carefree voices
I waa one if those young and carefree voices. We left Devonport (Guzz) on the 4th April 1978 and returned 4th December. A fantastic trip to the USA and the Mediterranean before returning in December to Guzz. What a night out it was down on Union Street that evening!!
Thank you for replies,I was always told it was because Margaret Thatcher didn't want to give Argentina qudos for sinking her!! Live on Ark Royal!! Very special!!
Ark was out of service long before the Argentines invaded the Falklands so it had nothing to do with it. We have had and scrapped another Ark since this one and I am surprised that we didn't call one of the two new carriers Ark Royal.
Cheers Ade ! the Ark's anchor resides in its place of honour outside the Holiday Inn, Plymouth; Dad resides with Mum in Totnes - but still new tours of duty for me - last year Shanghai, this year Doha, Qatar, where I am right now. Take care in Second Lockdown - and drink some Pusser rum for us and the old flagship. There MUST be another Ark - it's RN tradition and history ! clear waters and fair winds to you !
Also my first ship 1961 to 1964 as a boy seaman and my last time on her when this video was taken. Very very sad occasion but we all had a great and experienced some wonderful hospitality from all the US guys and girls when we were there in Mayport, Norfolk Virginia. Very fond memories which I shall never forget ❤
The Royal Navy Phantoms looks so good in that livery from 77 have to admit they look the best of all the UK Phantoms. The Buccaneers in the RN colours also look better than the RAF equivalent. Yes I know the history of both aircraft vis a vi the R.N. And the RAF
Some fantastic times on board Uncle Tom's war canoe. I'd left when this was made but anyone who was 849 D flight or 892 can't fail to recognise the killick grubber Mick Parkes. R.I.P. Mick.
Watched a documentary on the Ark probably late 70s early 80s and in the final episode it showed it getting scrapped in a yard up in Scotland such shame that she ended up for scrap and I think an officer got very upset at her getting cut up
My mum bought the single which I played over and over when I was a boy, I have just inherited my mums 7 inch collection after her passing and will be investigating it to see if the single is still there
I am sorry to hear your Mum has passed away, Condolences to you Sir. I inherited my Mums record collection some 8 years ago. Let's hope you can find a working record player. I like nothing more than playing a pile of records, just yesterday evening it was a few tinnies and pile of LP's in my house. I bought the Last Farewell LP as I left HMS Ark Royal in 78 and still play it to this day.
There's a ship lies rigged and ready in the harbor
Tomorrow for old England she sails
Far away from your land of endless sunshine
To my land full of rainy skies and gales
And I shall be aboard that ship tomorrow
Though my heart is full of tears at this farewell
For you are beautiful, and I have loved you dearly
More dearly than the spoken word can tell
For you are beautiful, and I have loved you dearly
More dearly than the spoken word can tell
I've heard there's a wicked war a-blazing
And the taste of war I know so very well
Even now I see the foreign flag a-raising
Their guns on fire as we sail into Hell
I have no fear of death, it brings no sorrow
But how bitter will be this last farewell
For you are beautiful, and I have loved you dearly
More dearly than the spoken word can tell
For you are beautiful, and I have loved you dearly
More dearly than the spoken word can tell
Though death and darkness gather all about me
And my ship be torn apart upon the seas
I shall smell again the fragrance of these islands
And the heaving waves that brought me once to thee
And should I return safe home again to England
I shall watch the English mist roll through the dale
For you are beautiful, I have loved you dearly
More dearly than the spoken word can tell
For you are beautiful, I have loved you dearly
More dearly than the spoken word can tell
sang along with this with a tear in my eye ....Proud to have served (RAF)
@@1tonyboat+1 my friend +1
Good old ark royal 009y
❤❤❤
We played this at my brothers funeral. He loved that ship. Sleep well big brother x
I am retired U.S.Navy veteran and this was a beautiful tribute to a great lady. I salute all of you who sang, and served with such love. I fully understand, and have lived to have loved more than six ships on which I served between 1964-1995. FAIR WINDS SHIPMATES. Wonderful Salute brought tears to a 75 yr. old Sailor
Thanks Bob, I'm glad you enjoyed it, there is a better version somewhere on the channel. Thanks for watching.
From the son of a Royal Navy Fishhead ! My Dad was Chief PO Supply Branch on the old ARk - of which anchor now resides on Plymouth Hoe !
and he's 86 now
And would love a visit- bearing Rum !
Thank you to a US Squid from a Royal Navy Fishhead !
She and her brave crews serve their Queen, Country, Commonwealth and Her Realms and Territories across the seas,
From Canada...Rule Britannia
I've just been in tears watching this, my dad, Anthony(Tony) Callow was on the Ark in the mid 70's.She was his last ship and he loved her. We played Sailing by the Ships Company and RM Band of HMS Ark Royal at his funeral in 1999 and everybody broke down in tears.
Hi Dawn.
I'm very happy to hear you have been in tears.
She was my first ship when I was 17yo.
I'm sorry for your loss, we have the duty watch for now.
Rest in Peace Tony.
They were amazing days.
Be sure to look at some more videos on my channel, there is a great deal of Ark Royal Cine film here.
I am very proud to be able to say that my voice is in there some where.
There’s a documentary made in the 70’s called “ Iron village “ have you herd of it?
When I see this type of video and and read nout all these wndeful people who serve and have served our Country in peace and war I feel proud to be British and a big thank to all those brave men and women. "Thank you"
@@obber9561 I have a copy of it but am prohibited from sharing it online.
@@ttonypayne5077 Cheers
Our greatest Carrier...
Wonderful, always brings back a tear. My late Dad was a Signalman in Royal Navy in WW2.
Back when we had proper discipline and Britain was great.
Sadly a distant memory now.
Huge thanks to all our services and those who serve.
Our fabulous armed forces. God bless them all for keeping us safe. xxx
I lost my uncle last year. This version was played at the funeral. He was a crew member who sang and served on the HMS Ark royal in the 70s.
Chief PO Ark Royal Tony Chambers- 15/7/37 to 26/4/24. My Dad. God bless him and all who served with him. Xxx 🫡🇬🇧
“For you are beautiful”- a fitting tribute for this great ship
I too was moved to watery eyes. I served 20 years in the U.S. Navy, and in the 70's, I was with the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt at Naval Station Mayport Florida; guess who visited several times at Naval Station Mayport when I was a young Sailor in the 70's? None other than the Mighty HMS Ark Royal (R09). Though I was in the U.S. Navy, and our Aircraft Carriers were a tad larger, I grew affectioned with intense interest of the "Ark" with that oversized Bridle Arresting Horn on her bow. I met a few British Sailors back then whenever she was in port; most of them, at that time, kind of stayed away from me, I guess because I was a Black Sailor, but I tried to make Friends. But I grew affectionate with the "Ark" and tried to find out as much about her as I could. It seemed to me that they retired her much too early, and when the Falklands war broke out, I'll bet the British Government at that time had wished that the Ark Royal was still in commission. By the way, I have "ties" with the UK as I was stationed at Naval Communications Station Thurso Scotland from 1982 to 1984. Miss the Mighty Girl, and the way she graced the seas, and protected the British Homeland!
I well remember my time in Mayport, altho I was with 892 Squadron so we shipped out to NAS Cecil Field.
Your colour had nothing to do with it, I can assure you.
The day I joined up I met my first black sailor and in my 12 years I never once met an ounce of any form of racism in the navy, in fact quite the opposite.
My Leading Cook down south in the Falklands was an amazing black sailor and Ark had a real star on the flight deck crew who was black.
Perhaps we were mostly a white crew, but not one Royal Navy Sailor I know of has an ounce of racism in his bones.
As for the comment 'a tad larger' oh fuck yes, I remember being in Norfolk VA when we moored alongside NIMITZ. jeez she was huge.
There is cine film of that event somewhere on this channel.
@@Super8Rescue Hi Mate; Thanks for your eloquent post; cheers to "The Ark!" I was not implying, nor did I say or was inferring that your Mates were racist; just saying that they seemed very cautious and/or stand offish when I approached them or tried to make Friends, and don't forget, those were different times, especially in America with the "race" thing. And I learned that it was not necessarily the case in Europe or the UK; as I lived in Scotland for 1.5 years at Naval Communications Station in Thurso Scotland 82-84, and Stuttgart Germany from 88 to 90. I felt at home in Europe when I lived and was stationed there and the race thing did not really exist or I felt that it didn't; it was more so a thing of curiosity about me from the stares that I got as most people had never seen a black person. But I loved "The Ark," and my British Mates (America's Mother the UK). Thanks Mate. And oh, the American Carriers are huge; my nation has always strived to be bigger and better but most times bigger and better doesn't mean that you have THE advantage over your enemy. Carry on Shipmate, Cheers to the "Mighty Ark, and God speed to you all!
@@Super8Rescue Was stationed at NAS Cecil Field many times during my 20 year career. It is still there but no longer a military Naval Base. Fond memories of those times so long ago. I do remember in the 70's, British Sailors being at Cecil from "The Ark." I'll bet you were one of them! Cheers Mate!
@@garrycoston491 I was with VA-83 stationed at Cecil Field during 1971-1972. Maybe we have 'crossed paths'! 😀
@@garrycoston491 Also on a Med Cruise on the USS John F. Kennedy in 1971 and then on the USS Forrestal in 1972 as an AE-3rd.
I am also one of the many voices on this and the words convey how I feel about my time on the Ark. Best days of my life and the best decision of my life to join the Royal Navy. AB(R) Scouse Elder 4WZ mess.
6T2 mess for me. happy days, thanks for watching
Well done and more power to you. The Ark Royal and her crews were not just a ship and a complement of sailors but rather, they were the embodiment of all that was good and great about Britain and The Royal Navy. I was an engineer officer in the Merchant Navy for 40+ years and felt nothing but respect for our "Grey Funnel Line" compatriots.
My dad was on board 1964 till 1966 best days in the navy rest in peace dad
BZ
Remember seeing a film about her scrapping, brought me to tears to see such a fine ship reduced to scrap.
final episode of Sailor, with Uncle Tom.
@@Super8Rescue do you know where to find it?
@@bigshipsjust look up 'scrapping HMS Ark Royal r09' on Google.
Absolutely bloody choked ! Bless the old girl, she did us proud.
I hope you tube stays as I shared this with my 4 year grandson we sat and watched it yesterday. I had tears in my eyes great post great memories and yes I was singing this too.
I hope YT will be with us for a long time to come.
She had character last of the greatest naval ships a credit to the navy&a great ambassador for her country sadly missed.❤❤❤️
My friend served as a cook on her in the 70s even though I haven't seen him since then. I've never forgotten him.
Cooks. We are unforgettable :)
For you were beautiful and we all loved you dearly, more dearly than the spoken word can tell. RIP R09.
My husband was 'D' of Ark during her last visit to Malta and last but one commission. 38 years in the RN, his favourite ship.
Nice to hear that Maureen. Thank You for watching.
Roger Whitaker and The Last Farewell has been a song I've loved since my Mom played it on 8 track when I was really young! It brings tears to my eyes with this video! As an ex ABH3 in the US Navy I think it may have solidified my desire to be a sailor since those young days! God Bless all those who've served their nations sailing the seas!
thanks for watching.
I joined her May 1974 and left December 1977 , to this day I regret missing her farewell voyage . What a ship , what a crew .
I joined her early 76 with 892 and stayed to the end. SO lucky to do that
@@Super8Rescue I would have loved to see the old girl out , did a stint on her in the mid 60's before she went for the refit .
I love this and have done for 40 years! I need to explain that I first heard it in the maternity ward as I gave birth to my first child - a perfect son! What an entrance to the world for my boy! Thank you to the ship's company for the fanfare and the cheer! 💙💞🤣
Thanks... a mate of mine flew Seahawks from the Ark Royal... Thanks from NZ 👍🇳🇿
Thanks for watching.
My Dad was there somewhere - Phil "Tansy" Lees on this recording which we played at his funeral - so he sang at his own farewell
BZ
My Home for Two years in 4R2 mess... brilliant memories...I did quite a bit on the ships TV as an entertainer with my oppo Brum Mahon...we were known as "Cabbage and Green" ... the Video brought tears to my eyes of being privy to one of my best life experiences... I also was one of the singers amongst our ship's company singing the last farewell, Sailing/The Wombling Song/Remember You're A Womble/You'll Never walk alone/land of hope and glory. with The Royal Marines HMS Ark Royal Band.
Happy Days
thank you for this, we attended my fathers funeral to this yesterday, it was so fitting, given that he sang on this. xxx
I am sorry to hear of your loss. It was a great time for all of us to be part of that in 1978.
I was aboard this ship in Port Everglades. Florida. I was 15 . I remember that ship. F-4s and an anti submarine aircraft with a propeller on each end. I got a distinct impression that the Royal Navy is not one to mess with. Still true. Best wishes from the Sunshine State!
Fort Lauderdale was one of the best places to visit. In 1976 we were over run with visitors who wanted to take sailors home for a weekend. Lauderdale is very special, I had relatives in the Naples, so a drive across alligator alley in a rental car was done a few times.
@@Super8Rescue My first time on a Royal Navy ship. Everything about that ship looked like it meant business.
@@daleeasternbrat816 it was all smoke and mirrors, she was on her last legs. Poor old thing had been falling to peices, how she made it home without sinking I don't know. :)
@@Super8Rescue To me, at 15, she represented the Royal Navy at it's best. If she was was smoke and mirrors , well, I enjoyed being aboard her anyway! I hope her large , new sisters visit, if they can fit.
@@Super8Rescue Grippo`s loved them.x Same as on Bulwark when l was in 40cdo at Fort Lauderdale the Yanks made us feel so welcome.
Good times.
Then on Fearless two years later in Miami were adopted by the locals again!
My dad had this on tape he used to play in the car when I was little....this song stands out, very moving
Was there... can almost taste it watching this , I would go back in a heartbeat.
I wouldn't say no to a duty watch on the deep fryers.
i was there too, emotional video bringing back heaps of memories
I was there when they recorded this, the BBC producer was as camp as a row of tents and kept getting annoyed with us...that led to another song for him....Zulu warrior.
The history of the Ark Royal is known in the whole world. She's famous in the war for what she contributed!.
she is also famous for her chips.
In which war ? This Ark Royal never went war.
i remember the old girl well the thunder of the phantoms taking off was a sound never to be forgotten ,happy days
I was with Able Seaman G C for most of his navy career.He was a very known DJ in the Navy.In the 70’s late 80’s … Costello I will always love you and be proud of you…HMS Raleigh go forth x
Thank you for sharing this, I have looked for it for ages. I was one of the voices on this and was on the farewell trip. It was a very emotional experience and many of us sang with a tear in our eyes.
You're welcome, I am in there somewhere too. Happy days ...
If you look a little deeper in to the channel you will find every track on the LP
What year was that please?
I worked on the flight deck of the American aircraft carrier USS Independence and we sailed together for awhile back in 75, a couple of your Phantoms landed on our flight deck and the aircrew toured the ship before returning to the Ark Royal. It was fun and I was young.
and we had americans land on Ark Royal in 78. There is film of it somewhere on my channel
There are photos of the RN Phantoms on board the USN carried and vice versa on the net. Unfortunately back then we didn’t have phones with good photo and video capabilities so we don’t have too much high resolution stuff from the past
My voice is amongst this great occasion along with the other Clubswingers on there at the time. Great commission and happy times 🎉
I am in there somewhere.... happy days
Truly fantastic. My father served two trips, on the ark fleet Air arm, buccaneer, s, fleet chief
Thank you
welcome
@@Super8Rescue thank you sir
My dad still remember, s two tot, s of rum a day ration, s
A great ship and a great crew, thanks for the memories.
You're more than welcome, thanks for watching.
Was in Mess 4R3 824 Squadron. Amazing time. Watching launches breathtaking. Always remember looking at the SARS up and thinking how glad where that they were up when needed.
A great ship, the most loved carrier of all!
I was very lucky to have her final years as a junior cook
The Royal Navy will not be complete until there is another in service
There's got to be an ARK ROYAL! It's a British Icon!!!
Our playground
Our Weapon
Our HOME
Great video. She was a beauty. My dad served on her, Eagle and was the Buffer on the Invincible during the Falklands conflict.
Whenever I see these old girls I immediately remember their smell and the acoustics.
Thanks for your kind comments, she was an amazing ship for a 17yo lad to sail on, happiest days of my life.
My dad was on the last sailing of the ark. I still have the original copy of the single sang with Rod Stewart
Indeed she was plus my nan served tea to The Queen on the 1950 launch of its namesake and being a native of Birkenhead and former 'Laird worker it's in our blood. Thanks for this.
@@DaveSCameron This was that 1950's "namesake" But what you see is her post 1967-70 refit when her deck was enlarged to operate the Phantom F4K P.S. it was the Queen Mother who launched her
@@steveaf4370 Many thanks ⚓
Served onboard for the last commission. So many happy memories: thanks for bringing them back.
I was there too, thanks for watching.
every thing has a beginning and an end we are all just passing through
But it is how we pass through what matters, and how greed takes away what we have.
My brother Noel (Perry) Mason was on hms ark Royal and sang on this song.
Let's hope, like the rest of us who sang along, he was slightly tipsy too.
my girl and myself have not stopped playing this for days love my girl and we love this.
excellent. Sing Along. Thanks for watching
Fred Hansford, stoker had many a story to tell after serving on board. Great ship good times.
Anchors away Dad.
Anchors away ❤️ missed always.
thanks for watching, pass me a tinnie. Anchors away indeed.
Brings shivers to me. Being ex RN the song means a lot to me.
I was there, singing along with my tin of CSB
I’m 18 and want to join, would you say it’s a good career to take on?
@@thetourettesgamer8851 go for it son,the best thing you could do, I loved it
@@henryvagincourt4502 Ajax, Malcom, Dundus, Hardy, and finally the Tiger. You will note every ship l had in sequence the hull got older! My next draft might have been the Titanic!🙃
@@thetourettesgamer8851 services to join RAF first fleet air arm next navy next army are worst ..... but in any case get a education lower rates are not well treated but if u thick like me join up as a urk
I am not even British and know nothing about this ship.. But I know this song and seeing this video gives me tears.
excellent.
@@Super8Rescue Its called the Last Farewell and was a major hit by Roger Whittaker circa 1971
@@michaelb9529 I know it's called the Last Farewell, that's why I titled the Video The Last Farewell.
I am also very aware Roger Whittaker had a hit with this, along with Durham town and many other hits I remember. Thanks anyway for your comment.
This is a version by the ships company much loved by all of us who appear in the recording, myself included.
th-cam.com/video/sGWs1HK8iDU/w-d-xo.html
@@Super8Rescue Groovy Baby don't forget everybody talks about a new world in the morning and Canada is 2 more of his hits
God Save Our Queen
The ministry of defence has now screwed up British history, for ther is not an hms ark royal in service. The name ark royal is iconic in the royal naval history. The Royal Navy will never be complete until an ark royal is back in service.
Fond memories of her last trip and my first ship. I was an REM then working on the radars. Oh and should have said, that is me singing!
so it was you that was out of tune.....
Super8 Rescue Yes
Where you on board for the last farewell? If so do you remember a Geoff Reynolds?
Emma Inch Emma, Yes I do. I am trying my hardest to place him as it has been a long time. Was he in 2L2 mess?
Dennis AWS I think he was, sadly he passed away 2 years ago on the 26th May, but I always remember him talking about his time on Ark Royal and we had the recording at home of the last farewell.
Long live ark royals name and glory
very moving, my grandfather was on the first Ark Royal during the war and one of the last off , because he volunteered to go down and get the code books, after it was torpedoed. i think his job was to be in charge of "the big guns," im sure that's what he said when i was a kid
Huge respect for your grandfather, he will never be forgotten
My grandfather was also on the Ark back in '41. Brothers in arms, brave souls indeed.
Listened to this tape until it fell apart Great stuff!!!!
well now you can carry on listening to it.
For my big brother Chris daughtery killick cook, I miss you big man x
Some of my finest friends were Killick chefs in the main galley
a Yankee air crew threw me his helmet as he took off from the deck I still have it that my was in 1978 guess it's for keeps now great ship great times great post sir pip pip! ex wafoo fire man on deck 75-78
Excellent!
I clicked on this video and had a pleasant surprise when I saw it was you who released it.
I had a pleasant surprise when I read your comment, thank you
@@Super8Rescue Thanks.
It was a long time ago but watching that it feels like yesterday .
Im getting Nostalgic of something Im too young to remember.
and I too old to forget
This version of the Ark Royal was the first purpose built Fleet Aircraft Carrier. During its design the had to make it lighter to add speed. So they removed half the rivets and replaced them by welding the plates on its hull. By getting rid of the rivets and thus no need to over lap the plates they saved 10,000 pounds allowing her to increase speed to 31 knots per hour allowing her to keep up with her escorts
Are u high m8 ark royal (91) (the 3rd one) was the first purpose built carrier this one is the fourth
@@bigships Thats what I wrote
I saw her sister ship, HMS Eagle, pass very close to the troopship HMT Asturias, that my family [dad in the R. Sigs.] was on. We were in the Indian Ocean not far from Aden. It was in 1955 [we were on our way to Hong Kong] - the Eagle had Sea Hawks, Gannets, and Sikorsky type choppers, arrayed on the flight deck.
My 83 year old father served on both Eagle and the Ark Royal. I found this channel purely by chance yesterday and plan on showing him the footage next time I see him. I think he served from the mid 50's until 1970 and left the navy when he got married. to my mum. He was in Aden and Borneo
My Grandad had this album...he was on a aircraft carrier during ww2
In which case he deserves our utmost respect.
My father was a Firefighter deck handler on her during the early sixties. Great years Arthur Broughton was his name. Wonderful memories of the far east fleet. Anyone who remembers him and those wonderful days please let us know. His son Stephen.
I can't remember the name of it but there is a facebook group for R09 crew, I know they have let immediate family members in to the group in the past.
Beautiful, my dad John Bowman was on this, he sadly passed on Wednesday
I am sorry to hear your Dad has crossed the line. We have the duty watch now. Calm Seas and Fair Winds.
@@Super8Rescue he will be having this song if it's OK, and the union jack, im so proud to be his daughter
It's more than OK. Sending you best wishes, your pride is quite normal. It was a special moment in our lives to be on HMS Ark Royal
@@Super8Rescue did your remember a John Bowman he was the lead store accountant
This gives me goosebumps💜
excellent.
Most patriotic song ever!
Billy Hughes what song is it
@@jackfoskett8741 The Last Farewell by Roger Whittaker. Great Britain.
The song is about a girl.
@@williamjordan5554 it is but i guess but that’s not just it, the song is also about about that love of ones homeland and all it’s character and hearing the line to my home land of rainy skies and gales just makes me feel patriotic inside
Brilliant.
Cracking video Mike Spice. I remember the singing well.
Cheers Frank, I remember the fucking pot wash sing songs. .
Served 1976/77 Tractor Driver/ Chockman Best 18months Of My Naval Career From GANNETGARFORTH.
Hi Michael I doubt if you knew him but my Uncle FCPO Stoker/MEM Mike (Jan) Tarrant served most of his career on The Ark, he Adored her , I think that's where my Sister and I get it from, neither of us can listen to "Sailing" without welling up the Most Fantastic Piece of music Ever
I don't know him, I was on Ark from 76-8 I am singing on the Sailor track.
I was on the Ark 3L2 Mess happy days.
They should include this song in Mouthbatten Festival of Music..the sound and instruments are well blended
Time to build the next Ark Royal, the name must go on. There has always been an Ark.Since the Spanish Armada.
She is a great name for a carrier. The Royal Navy has a lot of great names in its history for capital ships. Far too many for all to be used at the present time.
For around 300 years there was NO Ark Royal serving in the fleet! After the Armada, the next ship wasn't until around the 1920s. however I would personally have loved PoW to be renamed as Ark Royal, or what about one of the new Dreadnought subs?
A third Queen Elizabeth class named Ark Royal would be cool.
@@ulysses2162 or maybe a new lph or lpd could be the next Ark Royal
TheKira699 amen to that. Our Royal Navy is not complete without an ark royal in service. The name is historic
The song and the ship make me really proud to be British 😭
Me too
My dad was Commader Air, Bob Northard. We played this at his funeral in 2007.
@Daniel Kinder thank you. It was the perfect send off. The Navy even did a fly past as we left the crematorium. Nice touch. According to his logbook, and I may have missed a few, dad flew Sea Venoms, Sea Vixens, Sea Hawks, Hunters and the F4. He was also an air warfare instructor.
Wonderful!
when we ruled the seas
Love the navy
I had 12 years of it.....
The innocent days before the Falklands
Love this. I served onboard her sister ship 'HMS Eagle' from1969 until her last voyage back from Hong Kong to be scrapped 1972 . .
There is cine of HMS Eagle on this channel 1968
@@Super8Rescue Thankyou so much!
I tried get on last run on Eagle but ended up on ark man I wanted swap with wasn’t QM on phantoms just vixens I was qualified on both
Fab video ⚓️
Thanks Ian
I have been on this ship, and many many other Royal navy ships as a cadet, the biggest mistake i ever made was not enrolling fully, The Ark Royal was the biggest and most fearsome aircraft carrier in the world, was a pleasure to be on it, but sad to see what greedy government cuts did too it.
Rule, Britannia! Britannia, rule the waves!
England never, never, never shall be slaves.
top Man never look back enjoy your life and it's memories as is
If there is to be a 3rd CV of the QE class name it Ark Royal
QE should have been named Ark Royal and POW Eagle.
For sure- we must have another Ark Royal !
There is unlikely to be a 3rd carrier. We couldn't afford it!
Excellent film, That music is awesome!
thank you. It was a great honor to get drunk and sing with my friends.
I vaguely remember seeing a video of this recording with the RMB on the hanger deck. I had the LP from that session at one time .
I DO remember being on the Hoe at Guzz when she left port for the last time. I’d say most of Plymouth came out to say goodbye . Still emotional now hearing these young carefree voices
I waa one if those young and carefree voices. We left Devonport (Guzz) on the 4th April 1978 and returned 4th December. A fantastic trip to the USA and the Mediterranean before returning in December to Guzz. What a night out it was down on Union Street that evening!!
@@stevevelo2230 Gulpers mate 👍
@@stevevelo2230 Hang on... wait a moment .. December 78... Diamond lil,s. Pissed up Stoker .. FATHER !!!! 😂🤣😅
BZ
Thank you for replies,I was always told it was because Margaret Thatcher didn't want to give Argentina qudos for sinking her!! Live on Ark Royal!! Very special!!
Ark was out of service long before the Argentines invaded the Falklands so it had nothing to do with it. We have had and scrapped another Ark since this one and I am surprised that we didn't call one of the two new carriers Ark Royal.
Especially as they gave away the R09 penant away.
R09 was the epitome of the RN.
I wouldn't agree to that if you had seen the state of the food we chucked at them :)
For Dad, Chief Petty Officer Anthony Chambers, Supply Branch. His last ship duty in RN.
Dad was the only sailor with one girl in one port - Plymouth and my Mum ! as for me, every girl in every port, lol !
Hi Kevin my Uncle was F/CPO S
Cheers Ade ! the Ark's anchor resides in its place of honour outside the Holiday Inn, Plymouth; Dad resides with Mum in Totnes - but still new tours of duty for me - last year Shanghai, this year Doha, Qatar, where I am right now. Take care in Second Lockdown - and drink some Pusser rum for us and the old flagship. There MUST be another Ark - it's RN tradition and history ! clear waters and fair winds to you !
Shame I can't put a picture in here of my Chinese girlfriends, lol !
I was made in Hong Kong - Dad served in HMS Tamar 1967-1970!
Also my first ship and me singing too fond memories
Also my first ship 1961 to 1964 as a boy seaman and my last time on her when this video was taken. Very very sad occasion but we all had a great and experienced some wonderful hospitality from all the US guys and girls when we were there in Mayport, Norfolk Virginia. Very fond memories which I shall never forget ❤
I have this on the ARK ROYAL Album which also contains The Wombling Song and Remember You're a Womble. All sung by the Ship's Company HMS Ark Royal.
The complete album is on my channel
Yep remember this fondly,great ship and crew.5WZO mess,Y unit MEM.
The Royal Navy Phantoms looks so good in that livery from 77 have to admit they look the best of all the UK Phantoms. The Buccaneers in the RN colours also look better than the RAF equivalent.
Yes I know the history of both aircraft vis a vi the R.N. And the RAF
The Phantom crew had the best chips too, because I was frying them!
Lot of dust in the air round here
Goosebumps xxxx
oh well. :)
Some fantastic times on board Uncle Tom's war canoe. I'd left when this was made but anyone who was 849 D flight or 892 can't fail to recognise the killick grubber Mick Parkes. R.I.P. Mick.
Pedro PArkes, an 892 Legend
This video is the radio tribute broadcast for him on the day of his funeral
th-cam.com/video/1D8m6n2C6R8/w-d-xo.html
Would that be Tom Wilkinson from Sheffield?
Do you think one of the new carriers should have been called Ark Royal?
yes, they gave R09 to the Prince of Wales which pissed a lot of people off.
There should always be an Ark Royal in the royal navy!! It's a legend in its own right!! RESPECT!!!!
Yes yes yes .
Yes should be called ark royal at least they using RO9 on new carrier
Yes, there should always be an Ark Royal aircraft carrier
Watched a documentary on the Ark probably late 70s early 80s and in the final episode it showed it getting scrapped in a yard up in Scotland such shame that she ended up for scrap and I think an officer got very upset at her getting cut up
skip to 22'23 in ithis video and you can see it again
th-cam.com/video/LEJ7ZVY0Jvg/w-d-xo.htmlsi=sZb3H3S33YjKWHEG
@@Super8Rescueyou can see he’s heartbroken she should of been preserved
My brother in law was on the ark royal Paul Taylor from knutsford
What branch was he?, do you know when he served on Ark ?
My mum bought the single which I played over and over when I was a boy, I have just inherited my mums 7 inch collection after her passing and will be investigating it to see if the single is still there
I am sorry to hear your Mum has passed away, Condolences to you Sir.
I inherited my Mums record collection some 8 years ago. Let's hope you can find a working record player. I like nothing more than playing a pile of records, just yesterday evening it was a few tinnies and pile of LP's in my house. I bought the Last Farewell LP as I left HMS Ark Royal in 78 and still play it to this day.
@@Super8Rescue Good news the record is still there but sadly badly scratched
@@Super8Rescue you must have been on with dad...Phil Lees..yeah I know huge ship and all that
My late father James burford was on the ark in the early sixties… brilliant song🥲
cheers
My first ship Dec '74 to Jul '76
I joined her in 76 as they filmed the Sailor series. With 892 squadron
Oh makes me want to cry
Job done. Have a kleenex. Thanks for watching
Ihad a penfriend on there in70s Andy Green ? I wonder if hes still about he was from Pembrokeshire in 70s