From one Junglie to another: King pays tribute to Royal Navy heli crash victims

The King has spoken of his profound shock at the deaths of Lieutenant Commander Chris Gayson, Lieutenant Lily-Mae Fisher and Petty Officer Owen Green in a Royal Navy Merlin helicopter crash in the early hours of 4 June.

King Charles used a speech at the presentation of new Colours to the Royal Marines to offer some words of solace to the families and friends of the three Commando Helicopter Force personnel killed, as well as reflecting on his own service as part of 845 Naval Air Squadron.

He told the audience: "I would also wish to take this opportunity to acknowledge with the greatest sadness the crash of a Royal Navy helicopter on Wednesday.

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"As a former Junglie pilot with 845 Naval Air Squadron, I was profoundly shocked to hear this most tragic news."

His Majesty became a "Junglie", the nickname given to CHF personnel, after qualifying as a helicopter pilot in 1974. The term Junglie references the force's role in air operations in Borneo in the 1960s.

The King continued: "Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families, friends and colleagues of those involved. Their service is held in the highest regard, and they remain very much in our prayers."

During the speech, he also reflected on the impact of the crash on the Royal Marines, for which the CHF provides a crucial air support role. The Royal Navy describes the CHF as the "wings of the Royal Marines"; the two work closely in a variety of demanding operational theatres as the CHF are specialists in maritime, Arctic and desert environments.

"I know that this devastating incident will have affected every one of us here today," The King said. "However, it is most heartening to see the representatives of some of our oldest and closest international allies and partners present on this very special occasion.

"I can only pray that these bonds of friendship, forged through shared ordeals and based on shared ideals, continue in the years ahead."