Serving submariners joined veterans from the West of Scotland Branch of the Submariners Association last weekend to remember the lives lost in the tragic K13 maritime accident. Memorial events took place on Saturday, January 24 and Sunday, January 25.
The accident that sunk Royal Navy Submarine K13, sadly claimed the lives of 32 individuals on board on January 29, 1917. The boat sank whilst conducting routine trials in the Gareloch.
This year, the K13 memorial is perhaps more poignant than in recent years. 2026 marks 125 years since the first submarine, Holland 1, was launched in 1901. As such, this year marks 125 years of the Submarine Service.
Deputy Rear Admiral Submarines and Commander Submarine Flotilla, Commodore Ben Haskins CBE said: “As we mark the 125th anniversary of the Submarine Service today in 2026, we do so with deep gratitude for those who built our foundations, whose example continues to inspire the trust, resilience and collective purpose that define our people and our Service today.”
Memorial events started on Saturday morning when veterans and submariners were transported to Elder Park, Govan, to partake in a small memorial service and wreath laying. One of the individuals who lost their life on that fateful day was Fairfield supervisor John Steel. Unfortunately, his body was never found and as such the memorial in Govan was positioned opposite the Fairfield Shipyard, paying homage to the employee.
After the service, attendees returned to HM Naval Base Clyde, where veterans were offered the opportunity to visit submarine platforms and the Submarine Escape Rescue Abandonment and Survival (SMERAS) building. The visits allowed veterans to see the modern Submarine Service whilst reinforcing the connection between those who are serving today and those that served in the past.
The day concluded with the annual K13 Memorial Gala Dinner which was attended by over 100 individuals. Guests included serving submariners, trainee submariners, veterans, the Lord Lieutenant of Dumbartonshire, Jill Young MBE, and Commodore Haskins.
Cdre Haskins said, “As we remember the loss of HM Submarine K13 and the 32 Royal Navy personnel, shipyard workers and specialists who died during her acceptance trials in the Gareloch, we honour their courage, professionalism, and the resolve with which they faced the inherent risks of a pioneering era in submarine development. Their sacrifice—and that of their families—leaves a profound legacy that continues to shape the ethos of the Submarine Service, and pays tribute to the essential bond between the Royal Navy and the industrial partners who stood alongside us then, as they continue to do today across the Defence Nuclear Enterprise.”
On Sunday 25, members made their way across to Faslane Cemetery, where a memorial service was held, in remembrance to the tragedy. Also in attendance were the Helensburgh Sea Cadets who had the honour of ringing K13s bell, as a mark of remembrance. It was sound 32 times with each ring representing a life that was lost.
Andy Knox, primary organiser, and Chairperson of the Submariner’s Association – West of Scotland Branch who was also in attendance said: “The K13 Memorial Weekend proved to be a deeply moving and highly successful occasion, bringing together submariners past and present to remember those lost and to reaffirm the enduring bond within the Submariner community.”
