AN EVESHAM teenager is on course for a career at sea after completing the first stage of his naval training and receiving his Royal Naval epaulettes.
Trainee Seaman, and ex-Sea Cadet Jordan Griffiths, 19, arrived at the gates of HMS Raleigh in Cornwall in January and has undergone 10 weeks of intensive training designed to teach recruits the basic skills required by all sailors.
The course culminated with the passing-out-parade attended by families and friends, which was held last Friday (April 3) and attended by twenty members of Jordan’s family and friends.
Jordan, a former Evesham High School pupil, said: “I joined the Navy to see the world and to serve my country.
“Training was tough but the feeling of accomplishment is brilliant. Basic training was as realistic as it can possibly get.
“We used everything from decommissioned minesweepers to give you a taste of life on board, to sinking ship simulators so
you can learn how to deal with emergencies at sea.
“Throughout all this, fitness was a key. The Royal Navy training regime constantly and increasingly tested my ability to climb ropes and complete assault courses and weekend treks across Dartmoor.
“But it’s not all about strength and physical skill. You’ll have I had to prove myself in the classroom too. I enjoyed my time in the
Sea Cadets, and this has just taken it to another level.” he added.
Keith Field, Commanding Officer of Evesham Sea Cadets who attended said: “It was an honor and a privilege to attend and see
Jordan accepted into the family of the Royal Navy, he should be rightly proud like I know his late grandfather would be to”
With the first phase of his training complete, Jordan will transfer to HMS Collingwood in Portsmouth, where he will learn the skills in seamanship to keep the ships of the Royal Navy running smoothly, safely and effectively.
