ALONGSIDE BREST

Brest is a city in the northwest of France at the mouth of the Penfield River on the Bay of Brest in Brittany. Situated mainly on two hills on the opposite sides of the Penfield River, the city is an important seaport and naval base, with a superb sheltered harbour. The city has a flourishing shipbuilding industry and factories that produce electronic equipment, chemicals and processed foods. It is also home to the Université de Bretagne Occidentale (University of West Brittany).

Penfield River.

Fortification of Brest dating back to 16th century.

Brest is renowned for its seafood, lighthouses, sailing and its rich history. The city was first fortified between 1680 and 1688 under the direction of Marshal Vauban, the great French military engineer. Brest has frequently been subjected to attack by enemies of France. During World War I, the city served as a major landing point in France for American troops. During World War II, when Nazi Germany occupied France, Brest became a huge submarine base. The city was almost completely destroyed by Allied aerial bombing and artillery barrages before being liberated in 1944.

Submarine Pens built by Germany during World War II.

The naval harbour in Brest.

ACTIVITIES

The SAS Mendi visited Brest to load equipment that is supplied by France for the patrol corvettes. Whilst alongside, the crew worked in a two-watch system. Off-duty personnel were able to explore Brest. The duty personnel kept themselves busy with the daily routine and ship's husbandry, such as washing the ship's side. The crew also watched the Tri-Nations rugby final between South Africa and Australia on video, specially recorded by the Joint Project Team (JPT) in Germany for the ship's company.

The French Navy invited the crew for a soccer match. Pride was done to South Africa when team Mendi won 7 to 4.

The duty watch cleaning the ship's side.	Team Mendi in action against the French Navy.
Both teams after the match.	Team Mendi.

On a cold and rainy morning, Friday 27 August, the SAS Mendi sailed from Brest en route to Rota, Spain. Although the crew enjoyed meeting new people and experiencing their culture, they are looking forward to the warm and sunny climate of Rota.