2015-07-19 The Head of the House of Romanoff sends her congratulations to the Black Sea Fleet on the 100th anniversary of the raising of the St. Andrew’s Flag on the oldest active duty naval salvage ship

From the Head of the Russian Imperial House

To the Commander of the Black Sea Fleet,
Admiral A. V. Vitko

Dear Alexander Viktorovich!

I offer my congratulations to the officers and sailors of the Black Sea Fleet on the 100th anniversary of the raising of the St. Andrew’s Flag on the oldest active duty naval salvage ship, the Volkhov.

This ship is one of our most cherished living symbols of the unbroken continuity of Russian history. Having begun its illustrious career during the First World War, the Volkhov was renamed the Commune and distinguished itself during the years of the Second World War. During the terrible days of the Leningrad Blockade, the crew of this ship repaired damaged ships and submarines and made an inestimably important contribution to the effort to keep the “Road of Life” open and operating.

Even now, having been modernized, the ship continues to enhance the defensive capability of our country.

I send the crew my heartfelt greetings and best wishes for their health, strength of spirit, and success in all their service to our country.

My son and heir, Grand Duke George of Russia, joins me in congratulating you all on this important anniversary.

May the Lord bless you.

H.I.H. The Grand Duchess Maria of Russia

Madrid, July 6/19, 2015