Families and members of the Royal Naval Patrol Service Association (RNPSA) have gathered in Lowestoft for the organisation's annual reunion and remembrance service.
The service was held today (Saturday 3rd October) at the National Memorial in Belle Vue Park, which bears the names of 2,385 Royal Naval Patrol Service men who have no known grave but the sea.
The Royal Naval Patrol Service had its Second World War headquarters at Sparrow's Nest Gardens, with the central depot known as HMS Europa. From Lowestoft, the service co-ordinated operations including minesweeping and anti-submarine work across waters around the world.
Around 66,000 men served on 6,000 vessels during the war. Many of the vessels were requisitioned fishing trawlers and drifters, with fishermen forming a significant part of the service alongside volunteers and men called up for military service.
Families of some of those who were lost travelled from across the country to attend the annual service and remember the sacrifice made by those who served.
It was also the 40th year that Commander Garry Titmus of the Royal and National President of the Royal Naval Patrol Service Association, had attended the service on the Suffolk coast. This dedication was acknowledged by Lowestoft Town Council who presented him with a certificate of appreciation. This was presented by (pictured below with from right) Councillors Sonia Barker, Bernie Rappensberger and Andy Pearce.
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