Royal Holloway Physics alumnus, Vice Admiral Ben Key has received the honorary award of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa).
Royal Holloway Physics alumnus, Vice Admiral Ben Key
Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Key was educated at Bromsgrove School and joined the Royal Navy in 1984, before enrolling at Royal Holloway to read Physics a year later. As a junior officer in the Royal Navy, he saw service in six of the seven oceans of the world in a variety of frigates and destroyers.
During his career, he has commanded four ships; the mine hunter HMS Sandown, the frigates HMS Iron Duke and HMS Lancaster, and the aircraft carrier, HMS Illustrious.
From 2013 – 15, Ben Key was Flag Officer Sea Training, responsible for recruiting, individual and operational training across the Navy. He took up his current position as the Fleet Commander in February 2016. He is responsible for ensuring that the ships, submarines, Naval Air Squadrons and Royal Marine Commando units of the Fleet are ready for operations around the world, and was appointed CBE in the 2016 New Year Honours.
Speaking of his award, Ben said: “What an honour to be presented with this award by an institution that holds so many fond and special memories for me.
“I am humbled to be here, and grateful to Royal Holloway for recognising me in this way.”
The award citation at Royal Holloway's winter graduation ceremony was presented by Professor Stewart Boogert, Head of the Department of Physics.
