Naval Career Beckons for Former Sheppey Pupil

An 18-year-old former Minster College pupil is one step closer to a career as a Royal Navy Submariner.

Trainee Communication and Information Systems Specialist Lewis Stock has completed an intensive 10-week initial course at HMS Raleigh in Cornwall. Lewis, who previously worked in a factory, says: “I joined the Royal Navy to better myself, for the sense of achievement and to gain more qualifications, while travelling the world.”

Highlights so far include driving rigid inflatable boats, weapons training with the SA80 rifle, making new pals - and, of course, the passing out parade, when Lewis and his fellow recruits marched proudly past their families and friends.

Naval personnel play a vital role in Afghanistan and other land-based operations, so Lewis’s training also includes learning basic combat skills and survival in the field, with fitness as a key component.

“Training has been hard and disciplined, but very worthwhile," he says. He was particularly pleased at finishing a mile-and-a-half run in under nine minutes Lewis will now transfer within HMS Raleigh to the Royal Navy Submarine School, moving on to develop the skills to take charge of all communications aboard a sub.

Details of career opportunities within the Royal Navy are available online at www.royalnavy.mod.uk or by calling the Recruitment Line on 08456 07 55 55.