Oct 22 - RFA Argus Loaded With Vehicles Ahead Of Ebola Mission – Visit “Highlights Strategic Importance Of Gibraltar”
RFA Argus called into Gibraltar yesterday to load a fleet of 32 DFID vehicles before heading out to Sierra Leone as part of the UK’s commitment to tackle Ebola.
The vehicles were lifted onto the deck of the RFA Argus by crane where they will remain until the ship reaches Freetown later next week. Once in Sierra Leone, they will play a vital role moving staff, medicines and equipment around the country, as the UK constructs a further five Ebola treatment centers.
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said:
“I am hugely proud of the RFA Argus mission. It demonstrates clearly the UK’s determination to lead the World’s efforts to tackle the Ebola crisis. The loading of vital DFID vehicles on to the ship in Gibraltar en route to Sierra Leone highlights yet again that the permanent joint operating base there is of huge strategic importance to the UK.
“My visit last week reinforced our deep commitment to Gibraltar. The Agreement which I signed with the Chief Minister not only paved the way for a multi-million pound investment in resurfacing Gibraltar’s runway, it will also result in the passage of legislation to put the Royal Gibraltar Regiment on the same footing as its UK counterparts.”
Some of the ships company took the opportunity to take a brief respite in Gibraltar before heading out the same day.
Commanding Officer and Captain of RFA Argus, Commander David Eagles said:
“We are delighted to be in Gibraltar, it is a fantastic Forward Mounting Base and the perfect opportunity to embark DFID vehicles. We have received a very warm welcome and always enjoy this fantastic facility. I am very thankful and grateful to the pilot, tugs and staff at British Forces Gibraltar for their support.”
