'Tache Off' at RNAS Culdrose

Naval Personnel from RNAS Culdrose were allowed to experience life with a moustache last week – something that would normally break the Naval Discipline Act.

Whilst the rest of the country has been growing moustaches for ‘Movember’, Culdrose personnel, in accordance with the Naval Discipline Act, had to grow a ‘full set’ (a full beard). However, on 29th November, for one day only, the Helston based sailors were allowed to experience life with a moustache.

Personnel from all Squadrons and training units have taken part, some experiencing greater levels of success than others. Their facial hair growing efforts were judged in a big ‘Tache Off’. The winner was Leading Physical Trainer Mark Yates from the Culdrose Gym. The judging took place in the Station Cinema, where sickbay staff were also available to give advice on men’s health issues.

Surgeon Commander Alan Bowie, the Principle Medical Officer at Culdrose, whose Movember beard had been shaved down to a passable imitation of “Spinal Tap” bassist Derek Smalls’ facial topiary, said: “I was keen that RNAS Culdrose got involved in Movember, as it’s an excellent way of raising awareness of the health problems that men can get. We have carried out a great deal of health promotion across the whole Air Station, with leaflets and posters and a pair of plastic testicles placed in the medical centre’s reception area so that individuals can feel and see what a lump may feel like.”