HMS Pegasus

06/06/2026

D‑Day – 6 June 1944

In the early hours of 6th June 1944, Allied forces launched Operation Neptune, the vast amphibious and airborne assault that opened the Western Front and marked the beginning of Operation Overlord. It remains the largest seaborne invasion in history, a decisive moment that shaped the course of the Second World War.

Through the night, thousands of paratroopers and glider troops crossed the Channel, followed by waves of bombers and naval gunfire softening enemy positions. At first light on 6th June, Allied troops landed on five beaches: Utah and Omaha for the United States, Gold and Sword for the United Kingdom, and Juno for Canada, alongside the French commandos of Kieffer. Their courage under fire secured the foothold from which Europe would be liberated.

Amid this immense effort, the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve (Air) Branch played a quiet but vital role. RNVR (Air) pilots flew reconnaissance, spotting, and strike missions in the days leading up to the landings, gathering the intelligence needed to plan the assault and directing naval gunfire onto enemy positions. Many of these aviators were young volunteers who had trained intensively to support the Fleet Air Arm in one of its most demanding operations. Their contribution, often carried out in poor weather, low visibility, and under threat from enemy fire, helped ensure the success of the landings on D‑Day and the days that followed.

We will remember them

Royal Navy
Royal Naval Reserve
British Army
Royal Air Force

Image: Supermarine Seafire (Wikimedia Commons)

26/05/2026

Commander Evans represented HMS Pegasus at the Royal British Legion’s “Remembering the Iraq War, 15 Years On” service at the National Memorial Arboretum on Friday 21st May.

The duty in Iraq came at a high cost.
179 British Armed Forces personnel lost their lives during Op TELIC, the UK’s operation in Iraq. Thousands more were wounded, many with life‑changing physical injuries and others continue to live with the emotional and mental impact of their service.

We reflect on how much we ask of our Armed Forces, and acknowledge the dedication, courage and commitment shown by all who served.

Lest we forget. 🌺

Royal Navy
Royal Naval Reserve
Fleet Air Arm Officers' Association, F A A O A
Royal British Legion

20/05/2026

20/05/2026

Today we remember the Battle of Crete, which began on 20 May 1941 when German airborne forces launched a major assault on the island. Over twelve days of intense fighting, Allied troops, including Royal Navy ships, Fleet Air Arm squadrons and thousands of Commonwealth personnel, resisted with determination against overwhelming odds.

Among those who served were Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve (Air) Branch pilots flying with the Fleet Air Arm, including elements of 805 Naval Air Squadron. Operating from forward bases in the Eastern Mediterranean, these RNVR aircrew carried out fighter defence, convoy es**rt and fleet protection, often in outdated aircraft and under constant threat from superior enemy air power.

Their courage helped shield Royal Navy operations during the evacuation of Crete, where the Fleet suffered heavy losses while saving thousands of Allied soldiers.

Today, HMS Pegasus honours the sacrifice, resilience and professionalism of all who fought in the Battle of Crete, at sea, in the air and on the ground.

Royal Naval Reserve
Fleet Air Arm Officers' Association, F A A O A

🌺

Image: Royal Navy Fairey Fulmar (Wikicommons)

18/05/2026

The Telegraphist Air Gunners Association - TAGA Memorial Service was held at the Fleet Air Arm Memorial in Lee-On-Solent yesterday, May 17, 2026. TAGA held a Memorial Service on the 3rd Sunday in May since 1953 when the Duchess of Kent unveiled the FAA Memorial at Lee. Since 2013 when the TAGA dissolved, the service has been organised by the FAA Association.

The Wartime Heritage Association has created a new Remembrance Page remembering 1 of the casualties commemorated on the memorial who trained at East Camp in the Town of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. Read Leading Airman Brian Lambert Rowntree's story at:

http://wartimeheritage.com/whatag/whatag_rowntree_brian_lambert.htm

15/05/2026

15/05/2026

Mental Health Awareness Week is poignant for members of the Armed Forces and Veterans. The theme this year is Action, a reminder that even small steps can make a real difference to our wellbeing.

Even life in the Royal Naval Reserve brings its own pressures, balancing service, civilian work, family life and training. Taking time to check in with ourselves, and with each other, helps build the resilience that underpins everything we do.

Whether it’s a conversation, a walk, a moment of reflection, or simply making space for someone who needs support, every action counts. Looking after our mental health is part of being ready to serve.

Royal Navy



Find out more about Mental Health Awareness and support ⬇️

https://www.mind.org.uk/

13/05/2026

BZ to those involved from Commando Helicopter Force and Royal Naval Reserve members from HMS Pegasus.

13/05/2026

A small group of personnel from HMS Pegasus spent the weekend based at BRNC Dartmouth, taking part in two days walking along the stunning South Devon coastline. On the first day the group covered 14 miles followed by 4.8 miles on the second day.

From steep coastal paths to exposed headlands, the group were immersed in classic varying West Country conditions with bright skies, plenty of sea air and a bracing sea breeze on the second day. The aim of such challenging activities is to develop confidence in the outdoors, build shared experience, and strengthen the skills that underpin effective service in the Royal Naval Reserve.

Royal Navy

11/05/2026

Royal Naval Reserve personnel from HMS Pegasus have spent the weekend on Dartmoor supporting Exercise Wyvern Tor alongside the Commando Helicopter Force and it’s been a demanding one.

Across long, hot days on the moor, our reservists embedded with the Mobile Air Operations Team (MAOT) have been working Regular members of the Royal Navy to keep helicopter operations running safely and smoothly. MAOT’s role is vital, they are the specialists who establish, control, and manage helicopter landing sites in austere environments. From coordinating air movements to ensuring safe approaches, departures, underslung loads, and casualty evacuation points, MAOT are the link between the aircraft in the air and the troops on the ground.

This weekend’s tasking supported the iconic Ten Tors Challenge, one of the South West’s largest and most enduring youth endurance events. Every year, thousands of young people navigate 35, 45, or 55 miles across Dartmoor’s toughest terrain. The Royal Navy’s contribution, particularly through CHF, is central to the event’s safety and success. Helicopters provide rapid medical evacuation, resupply, and overwatch across a vast and often unforgiving landscape.

With temperatures climbing and visibility shifting throughout the day, MAOT personnel worked extended hours to keep landing sites open, safe, and responsive. Their professionalism ensured that CHF aircraft could deliver the support Ten Tors relies on, from lifting equipment to extracting injured participants swiftly if needed.




📷 PO Phot Lee Blease