Gibraltar

The L.E. Macha called to Gibraltar to refuel and resupply on the outward and homeward journeys. She was the first Irish vessel to berth there and the officers paid and received a number of visits from naval and civilian dignatories. These included Governor-General Anderson, Governor of Gibraltar; Rear-Admiral Brooking, the Royal Navy Flag Officer at Gibraltar; Archbishop Dr Fitzgerald, Bishop of Gibraltar and Mr Roberts, the American Consul based there.

A British destroyer, the H.M.S. Childers was in port and the British and Irish sailors exchanged visits. Tours of the 'Rock' were also organised for the men, leading Commander McKenna to comment 'The lads are in their element. The Irish half of the R.N. (Royal Navy) are taking them around the place.'

To view photographs of the Irish Naval Service in Gibraltar click on the images.