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Fatality on the Royal Yacht Britannia
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Fatality on the Royal Yacht Britannia
The flag flies at half-mast on the Royal Yacht Britannia, to commemorate the death of Ernest Friend, a second mate who was swept overboard and drowned. Date: 1931
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Media ID 32250110
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
1931 Accident Accidents Britannia Half Mast Nineteen Solent Yacht Half Mast
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this solemn photograph, the Royal Yacht Britannia sails on the Solent with its flag flying at half-mast. The flag's lowered position signifies mourning and respect, as the vessel pays tribute to the loss of one of its own crew members. The year was 1931, and the occasion was the tragic death of Ernest Friend, a second mate who was swept overboard during a routine voyage and succumbed to the cold, unforgiving waters. The Royal Yacht Britannia, a symbol of British maritime prowess and royal tradition, was a familiar sight on the Solent, the stretch of water between the Isle of Wight and the English mainland. The yacht was in service to the British monarchy since 1937 and was known for its elegance, grace, and the high level of professionalism maintained by its crew. The 1930s were a time of change and uncertainty, and the sea continued to pose a significant challenge to those who dared to navigate its depths. The maritime community was no stranger to accidents, and the loss of a valued crew member was a poignant reminder of the risks involved in a life at sea. Ernest Friend, a dedicated and experienced mariner, was remembered by his colleagues and the royal family as a man of great courage and commitment. His tragic demise was a blow to the close-knit community of the Royal Yacht Britannia, and the half-masted flag was a testament to their collective grief and respect for their fallen comrade. The image of the Royal Yacht Britannia sailing on the Solent, with its flag flying at half-mast, is a poignant reminder of the human cost of life at sea and the enduring bond between the crew and the vessel they served.
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