They were also very pleased to host the Mayor of Eastbourne, Cllr Cindy Vaughan. John gave an enthralling talk, which was thoroughly enjoyed by the audience, about his career in the Royal Navy up to taking Command of the Task Group. It was an extremely revealing insight into the pressures and difficulties of such a Command, working with and commanding NATO Allies and the decision-making process behind committing forces to a combat situation. John highlighted that this was UK Defence at its best with Army helicopters launching from Royal Navy ships in support of largely air campaign. The talk elicited many questions from the audience who were pleased to gain such a valuable first-hand account of this little known example of the co-operation, comradeship and courage of the Armed Services and our NATO Allies in challenging circumstances. Eastbourne RNA hope this is the first of a number of talks that can bring together Service organisations from across the area.