Reservist Tom on how HMS Clyde protects more than just the Falklands seas
Life as a Royal Navy Reservist has given Tom Clarke access to sights, places and wildlife that few get to see, and he’s also helping to clean up the environment.
Currently serving as a seamanship specialist on board HMS Clyde as it patrols the seas around the Falkland Islands Tom Clarke trained as a Reservist HMS Eaglet in Merseyside.
Pictured above enjoying a day off with the penguins on the island of South Georgia, he says:
“This is such an awesome opportunity to do something completely different and to travel the world. I only left school last year and I’ve already done some incredible things in the Reserves.”
When aboard HMS Clyde, Tom drives the ship as Quartermaster, maintains sea survival equipment, and provides security on the gangway as part of the ship’s protection force.
He also performs environmental tasks ashore, such as cleaning up plastic and debris from the Falkland Islands’ beaches. This allows him to get up close and personal with the unique wildlife.
“I’ve had the opportunity to go ashore and see some amazing settlements, four different types of penguins, and loads of other marine life. I’ve also been on exercises in the field with the Army, and made some amazing friends.”
