Navy recruits aim for future

RELATIVES and friends watched proudly yesterday as 18 recruits took centre stage at a passing out parade in the Irish Naval base at Haulbowline, Co Cork.

For the 18 ordinary seamen from the recruitment class, Alpha 07, it represented the culmination of 14 weeks intensive training.

During training they had to complete courses in marksmanship, foot and arms drills, ship fire fighting, damage control and sea survival techniques.

Awards were also presented to the best recruits. Robert Leahy, from Mahon, took the prize for highest score on the rifle range, while Mallow’s Alan Hanley was adjudged to have the best kit. Wesleigh Black, from Wicklow, prevented the Rebel County from gaining a hat-trick when he won the prize for overall best recruit.

Officer Commanding Naval Operations Command, Captain James Robinson inspected the class while musical accompaniment was provided by the Band of the 1st Southern Brigade.

After yesterday’s ceremony, the seamen will enjoy some well-earned leave before they begin their specialist training. It will involve courses in communications, mechanics or logistics which will further prepare them for service in the fleet.