Admiral of the Fleet Lord Boyce remembered

Thursday, 13th July 2023

His Majesty The King was represented by Admiral Sir Anthony Radakin at a Service of Thanksgiving for former Admiral of the Fleet The Lord Boyce at Westminster Abbey on Thursday 13th July 2023.

HRH Prince Michael of Kent attended the service, joining family, friends and former colleagues to pay tribute to Michael Boyce, who joined the Royal Navy in 1961 and served with distinction throughout his long career.

He was appointed First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff in 1998, serving as professional head of the Royal Navy. He became Chief of Defence Staff and professional head of the Armed Forces in 2001, serving until his retirement in 2003.

He was elevated to the peerage in 2003, was made a Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter in April 2011 and appointed Vice Admiral of the United Kingdom in 2021.

‘A life well lived’

Thursday's service was led by the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, who said in his Bidding:

'As we commend [Michael] to God’s loving kindness, we tell the story of a life well lived. We also recall a sure and quiet faith. He walked in the ways of righteousness. We are confident in the hope we share with him and in the great promises of God.'

The tributes

Tributes were given by Admiral Sir George Zambellas, Oliver Lee and Graham Boyce. Jonathan Cook and The Lord Walker of Aldringham read the Lessons. Prayers were led by the Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor.

The music

The service was sung by the Special Service Choir of Westminster Abbey, directed by Andrew Nethsingha, Organist and Master of the Choristers. The organ was played by Peter Holder, Sub-Organist.

The Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines, Collingwood, was led by Captain Samuel Hairsine RN.

A Processional March composed in honour of Admiral Sir Michael Boyce was played by Lance Corporal Frank Rochford, Piper.