Naval

Upon the restless sea the navy sails,
White‑capped and keen beneath a greying sky,
Her hulls of steel and timber kiss the gales,
While pennants flutter where the gulls still fly.

From Portsmouth dock to distant harbour's call,
The quarterdeck resounds with measured tread,
The bosun’s whistle, crisp, recalls the thrall
Of voyages where brave horizons spread.

A symphony of rope, of rivet, bright,
Of sonar's pulse and lantern’s steady gleam,
The fleet, a steady heart in endless night,
Keeps watch o’er waves that cradle every dream.

So let the tides recall the navy’s pride—
Steadfast as Britain’s shore, forever tied.