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Australian Naval Ensign
Australian Naval Ensign

Australian Naval Ensign

Date2004
Object number00050838
NameFlag
MediumCloth
DimensionsOverall: 1400 x 2080 mm
ClassificationsVisual communication
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Anne Jackson
DescriptionThe Naval Ensign is a white ensign version of the Australian National Flag, for use by official Government naval defence forces and RAN shore establishments. This was officially adopted by the RAN in March 1967. This ensign was used at the funeral of a serving naval officer in 2004.HistoryPrior to the establishment of the Royal Australian Navy in 1911, the Australian colonial navies flew a Blue Ensign defaced by the badge of the individual colony. Between 1911 and 1967 all ships in the RAN flew the white ensign of the Royal Navy. The change was made following agitation in Australia for a unique and distinctly Australian ensign. The first vessel to be commissioned under the White Ensign was HMAS BOONAROO on 1 March 1967, a merchant ship requisitioned by the navy for war service, ferrying supplies to Australian forces in Vietnam. The ensign is flown from the stern of naval vessels whilst the Australian National Flag is flown from the bow. All citizens are eligible to have the Australian National Flag covering their coffin during a funeral service. The canton should be draped over the left shoulder of the coffin and be removed either before being lowered into a grave or before cremation. In the instance of serving or retired defence personnel, the appropriate ensign for their section may be used. This ensign was used on 13 February 2004 at the Naval Chapel, Garden Island, at the funeral of serving officer Lieutenant Teresa Joy Jackson.SignificanceExample of the Australian Naval Ensign adopted after March 1967. Prior to this time the RAN had displayed the Ensign of the British Royal Navy. This particular ensign was used at the funeral of a RAN officer.