Commander Karen Snel has handed over command of 820 Naval Air Squadron to Commander Al Woodward – just as the helicopter unit prepares to head off on this year’s carrier strike deployment with aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales.
Commander Snel has been in charge for the last two years and has overseen deployments including last year’s Exercise Steadfast Defender and Exercise Strike Warrior.
Commander Woodward is a Merlin helicopter pilot who has served previously on 820, as well as 829 and 824 squadrons. He was RNAS Culdrose’s executive officer as well as deputy force commander and, for a temporary period, commander of the entire Merlin Helicopter Force.
He said he was deeply honoured to be taking command of 820, the oldest serving naval air squadron in the Fleet Air Arm, as he prepares to lead 170 men and women to the Indo-Pacific.
