Military focus for Historical Diving Society’s annual conference
August 9, 2023If you have a passion for diving history, military diving, or salvage operations, mark the annual conference of the Historical Diving Society in November on your calendar.
The speakers at the conference will cover two main topics: Special Forces divers and salvage diving on World War Two German submarines.
Mike Whelam, author of the book ‘Combat Divers: An illustrated history of Special Forces Divers, from World War Two to the Present’, will deliver a talk on military divers from various nations, with a focus on the British Royal Navy divers. As a former RN marine commando, Whelam’s expertise guarantees an enthralling presentation. Attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase his book at the conference.
Karina Kowalska, an academic and owner of a diving museum in Warsaw, will also give an illustrated talk on the origins of Special Forces in Poland. As an internationally recognized expert in diving history, Kowalska’s presentation will feature fascinating facts and images from military diving in the 1970s.
Two speakers from Denmark will discuss salvage operations on German submarines sunk during World War Two.
Sven Erik Jørgensen, editor of the Danish Historical Diving Society’s journal, will share his experiences in salvaging batteries from German submarines from 1950-51 in a talk titled ‘A wreck diver’s diary of the salvage of batteries from German submarines’. Known for his captivating speaking style and passion for wreck diving, Jørgensen is a must-see presenter.
Finn Linnemann, a former Commander in the Danish Navy with extensive international experience in marine salvage and ordnance disposal, will give a talk on the salvage of the German U-boat U534.
The conference will conclude with a brief presentation by Peter Dick, founder member of the Historical Diving Society and editor of its magazine and journal, on amusing views on diving through images.
The conference, HDC’s 32nd, will take place at Subsea7’s Sutton headquarters on Saturday, November 18. Tickets are priced at £40 and include lunch, refreshments, and free parking (subject to availability, upon request). This informal social event is open to anyone with an interest in diving.
For tickets and detailed information about the conference, speakers, and program, visit the Historical Diving Society’s website.
