Her Excellency the Most Hon. Cynthia Pratt, Governor General of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, received three surviving marines of the HMBS Flamingo incident, along with the family members of the fallen marines, during a solemn courtesy call held at Government House on Wednesday, May 7, 2025.
The visit honored the bravery, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of those involved in the tragic events of May 10, 1980, when the HMBS Flamingo was attacked and sunk by Cuban MiG fighter jets in Bahamian waters.
The incident resulted in the loss of four Bahamian marines: Able Seaman Fenrick Sturrup, Marine Seaman David Tucker, Marine Seaman Austin Smith, and Marine Seaman Edward Williams.
Among those present during the courtesy call were the three surviving marines of the incident: Captain Whitfield Neely, Force Chief Petty Officer Dencil Clarke, and Leading Seaman Willard
Saunders.
Their presence served as a living testament to the courage displayed that day and the resilience of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force.
Her Excellency extended her deepest gratitude to the marines and conveyed sincere condolences to the families of the fallen. She also highlighted the significance of the events in Bahamian history,
stressing that knowledge of them should be a prerequisite for anyone entering the Force.
Acknowledging that the nation owes them a debt of honor, she emphasized that their bravery and sacrifice serve as inspiration for future generations of service members. The courtesy call was an important reminder of the strength, unity, and patriotism that defines the Royal Bahamas Defence Force and the Bahamian people.
(Photo Credit: M/S Dante Forbes)
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