Carmarthen Recruit Sails through Navy training

An 18-year-old has joined the ranks of the Royal Navy after completing her basic training at HMS Collingwood, near Fareham in Hampshire.

AB(CIS) (Able Seaman (Communication Information Systems Specialist)) Eden Evans joined the service on 8 March this year and has now completed the intensive 10-week basic training course designed to teach her the skills she will rely upon throughout her naval career.

Ex-St John Lloyd School student Eden worked as a waitress before joining up, but she knew she wanted more. She said, “I joined the Royal Navy for a stable consistent job, to gain great qualifications and fulfil my true potential. I was keen to make new friends and do something amazing.” Reflecting on her training so far, Eden said, “The highlight for me was Naval Military Training where I was awarded the best score in my class. I especially enjoyed Exercise Hidden Dragon where I watched myself and my class bonding and growing stronger together. I’m very proud to have achieved the position of Deputy Class Leader.”

With this first phase of her training complete, Eden will remain at HMS Collingwood for her Communication Information Systems training and, once this is complete, she will have the opportunity to serve aboard some of the world’s most advanced warships as they are deployed across the globe. Looking forward to the next stage of her naval career she said, “I am so proud of every one of my oppos and excited to see how we grow and progress in our naval careers. Joining the Royal Navy was by far the best thing I have ever done”

The Royal Navy’s Initial Naval Training course is underpinned by nine Core Maritime Skills that are the foundations of naval life and underpin operational effectiveness. Recruits are taught the basics of Naval discipline and customs. They learn about navigation and are given the chance to take the helm of their own medium–sized inflatable boat during a waterborne orienteering exercise. Royal Navy personnel can also be called upon to play a vital role in land-based operations, so recruits undergo training in basic combat skills which includes survival in the field.

Fitness is a key component of the training and is delivered using a disciplined method of military fitness which focuses on developing co-ordination and individual physical strength and endurance. As the course progresses the recruits take part in three extended exercises to test their skills and understanding of the principles they have been taught.

Details of career opportunities within the Royal Navy are available online at www.royalnavy.mod.uk/careers or by calling the Recruitment Line on 03456 00 53 02