GREENWICH will be at the forefront of protecting London during next Summer’s Olympics, it has been revealed.
The Royal Navy’s HMS Ocean will be moored at Greenwich and used for logistics support, accommodation and as a helicopter landing site. Puma and Lynx helicopters will operate from the “Mighty O” to support airspace security.
The announcement that the 200-metre-long amphibious assault ship would be berthed at Greenwich was made today by Defence Secretary, Philip Hammond.
He also revealed that 13,500 military personnel will be involved in ensuring the smooth running of London 2012. Mr Hammond said:
“I am proud to announce the role our Armed Forces will play in support of the police, LOCOG [London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games], and others, in delivering a safe and secure Games.
“The Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force between them will provide up to 13,500 personnel. Up to 7,500 of them will support the smooth running of Olympic sites, while the remainder will use their specialist capabilities and equipment to contribute to the delivery of Olympic security.
HMS Bulwark, a visitor to Greenwich earlier this year, will be offering support in Weymouth where Olympic sailing events will take place.
HMS Ocean’s Christmas Video
Crew members on board HMS Ocean have become YouTube stars. A video of their military personnal performing Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas has been seen over 2 million times since it was posted earlier this month. Carey herself tweeted that it was the “best thing I’ve ever seen.”
The Olympics are ridiculous, aren’t they?