Cayman’s Lieutenant Kelly sails with the Royal Navy

(CMR) Lieutenant Theo Kelly from Bodden Town was one of the first to join the Cayman Islands Regiment when it was formed, and he now finds himself sailing with the Royal Navy, at sea, in the patrol ship HMS Medway as part of the UK’s Caribbean Task Group.

He was deployed to the Task Group to share his first-hand local knowledge and experience and gain further experience in planning for Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief operations in the region.

The Task Group consists of the Patrol Ship HMS Medway, the support ship Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) Wave Knight, and its embarked Wildcat HMA2 helicopter, along with the Crisis Response Troop drawn from 24 Commando Royal Engineers. The Task Group carries specialist equipment and emergency supplies for use in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. 

Lieutenant Kelly said, “One of the roles of the Regiment is to assist with disaster relief, especially with the frequency of hurricanes. Some of my jobs will include ensuring transport links are kept up and running, and all disaster relief equipment is maintained and ready to use.  Building a good working relationship and contacts with the Task Group team will be invaluable for any future disaster relief operations.” 

Shipboard life in HMS Medway has been a novel, and interesting experience for Kelly compared to his usual land-based job.  He says that he has enjoyed working alongside his colleagues and, having a seafaring heritage, being on board HMS Medway brings it all to life.

The Task Group works with the six UK Overseas Territories in the region and with other regional partners to prepare for and respond to national disasters, particularly during the core hurricane season. This includes planning and training to develop interoperability and disaster relief capabilities.