The Royal Navy is in shock after the sudden death of HMS Queen Elizabeth’s former first lieutenant.
Tributes have poured in for Commander Robert “Bob” Hawkins whose legendary Naval career spanned six decades.
Commander Hawkins, who died at the weekend, joined the Navy in 1978, aged 17.
Over the years, he saw seismic shifts in the military branch’s technical capabilities as well as vast social changes.
Commander Hawkins spent most of his career involved in the world of mine warfare, first qualifying as a mine warfare diving officer in 1982.
He spent much of the next quarter of a century serving in, directing the actions of, or training minehunters and imparted his vast knowledge through the Flag Officer Sea Training organisation, which is dedicated to preparing small ships for front-line duties.
His commitment to the specialist subject, as well as the Navy as a whole, saw him receive an MBE from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in 2007.
After qualifying as a principal warfare officer, commander Hawkins was assigned to frigate HMS Brilliant in 1993 and served in the Balkan crisis, featuring in a TV documentary by Chris Terrill.
Chris would feature Bob once again in his series documenting the bringing of HMS Queen Elizabeth into service.
Captain William King, commander of HMS Queen Elizabeth said: “It is with great sadness to hear of the passing of Commander Robert Hawkins.
“Bob previously served as 1st Lt on QNLZ and many of my Ship’s Company knew him personally. We pass on our thoughts and prayers to his loved ones at this difficult time.”
Commander Hawkins’ friend of more than 40 years and fellow former mine warfare officer Rob Hoole added: “Bob was the personification of a naval officer; an inspiring leader and a true gentleman.
“His integrity was matchless and he could connect with anyone from admirals to the most junior sailor.
“He also had an innate sense of fun combined with a mischievous sense of humour. He seemed omnipresent too; wherever you went, there was Bob.”
His most recent posting was as Commanding Officer of HMS Caledonia in Rosyth and chief-of-staff to the Royal Navy Regional Commander for Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Brigadier Andy Muddiman RM, Naval Regional Commander Scotland and Northern Ireland said: “Bob Hawkins made an immediate impact upon his arrival in HMS Caledonia, much as he has done throughout his long and industrious career.”
