OMK Michael Tibbs (1929-34), the oldest living submariner and veteran of WWII, was a special guest at the National Memorial Arboretum last week for the unveiling and dedication of the Submariner Memorial by HRH the Duke of Cambridge, the Honorary Commodore of the Submarine Service. Michael read Prayer of a Veteran, which he composed:

There is a time to cherish those that we knew.  O Lord, it is with gratitude we remember the submariner eras of the past, both those living and those who have been called to higher service. We give thanks for all those who pioneered new technologies, and especially those who lost their lives in doing so. Look mercifully on those who did not return from patrol in time of war, those whose friendship we treasured and on whom we relied, and we pray for the families that mourn them still.  Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

You might recognise Michael from the last story we wrote about him on the occasion of his 100th birthday last year when he received his card from the Queen. It seems he is never too far from royalty!