Queen Camilla marked a historic moment during her visit to HM Naval Base Devonport on Wednesday, July 16, becoming the first woman to be appointed Vice Admiral of the United Kingdom—a milestone announced just one day before her 78th birthday.
The appointment was shared by Buckingham Palace via their official Instagram account, accompanied by a carousel of images and the caption: “The Royal Navy have appointed The Queen as Vice Admiral of the United Kingdom at a ceremony on HMS Astute to mark the end of the Submarine’s first commission.”
The event took place at a rain-soaked Devonport, where Her Majesty received a ceremonial pennant from Rear Admiral Andy Perks, head of the Submarine Service. The queen spent approximately 90 minutes at the base, beginning her visit with a formal ceremony by the waterside to commemorate the end of HMS Astute’s first commission.
General Sir Gwyn Jenkins RM, the First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff, praised the historic appointment, stating it would “further enhance Her Majesty’s relationship with the Service.”
Following the ceremony, the group moved to HMS Drake’s grounds for a garden party, where Queen Camilla engaged in warm conversations with crew members and their families. She discussed the operational achievements of HMS Astute and acknowledged the personal toll submarine patrols can have on service members and their loved ones.
Later that day, Buckingham Palace also released a personal touch to mark the occasion—sharing a charming photo of the queen at her Wiltshire residence on the eve of her birthday, celebrating her historic naval honour and personal milestone.