The Royal Naval Patrol Service’s (RNPS) annual reunion service and parade was held in Lowestoft.(Image: Mick Howes)

The music hall comic was known for his clumsy and incompetent antics, and the men of the Royal Naval Patrol Service (RNPS) were, as it was hinted, said to be similarly amateurish.

Music Hall comic Harry Tate(Image: Wikipedia)

But the unit - which was based in Lowestoft - proudly adopted this initial insult and, as the war went on, it became a byword for bravery.

The Royal Naval Patrol Service’s (RNPS) 50th annual reunion service and parade was held in Lowestoft.(Image: Mick Howes)

The contribution to the war was remembered at its 50th annual reunion service and parade, which was held in the town this month.

The Royal Naval Patrol Service’s (RNPS) 50th annual reunion service and parade was held in Lowestoft.(Image: Mick Howes)

The relatively-little known service was formed during both world wars to protect the British coast and convoys.

The Royal Naval Patrol Service’s (RNPS) 50th annual reunion service and parade was held in Lowestoft.(Image: Mick Howes)

Its men initially served in civilian vessels like trawlers and drifters - hence those amateurism jibes - so naval ships could be deployed elsewhere.

The Royal Naval Patrol Service’s (RNPS) 50th annual reunion service and parade in Lowestoft.(Image: Mick Howes)

The service grew in professionalism during both wars and carried out vital and........

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