Three Royal Naval Reservists with Merseyside-based HMS EAGLET have successfully completed the vigorous eight week Accelerated Officer Program (AOP) with a passing out ceremony in front of their friends and family at HMS EXCELLENT.
31 young officers successfully completed the rigorous course, which included two weeks sea time onboard RFA ARGUS, the Royal Navy’s Aviation Training and Casualty Receiving Ship.
Mid Danny Jamson, an officer in the Coastguards in his civilian career, was also awarded the Cadet’s Prize by CMR Commodore Quinn for his outstanding achievements in maintaining morale.
Speaking of his AOP highlights, Danny said: “I loved my time at CTCRM Lympstone, especially the physicality. It illustrates how fit that you have to be in the Maritime Reserves.”
Mid Emma Smith, a Recruitment Consultant in her civilian life, has previous experience as a member of Manchester & Salford Universities Royal Naval Unit (URNU). Emma said: “Meeting such great people was a bonus and the eight weeks just flew by. I would recommend the AOP to anyone seriously considering becoming an officer in the Maritime Reserves. I really enjoyed the fitness element, especially as the Royal Navy’s slogan ‘Fit to Fight’ is so true these days.”
In addition to fitness, Weapons Handling, Drill and Leadership to name a few, it was the Core Maritime Skills (CMS) and the Core Values of Courage, Commitment, Discipline, Respect for Others, Integrity and Loyalty that Mid Josh Fried enjoyed.
A student in his daily life, Josh didn’t follow the Direct Entry route like his two other HMS EAGLET colleagues: “Having passed out from HMS RALEIGH previously as a rating helped me in preparation and what to expect from the course. My experience as an AB galvanised my ambition to be an officer, and taking the ‘upper yardy’ route suited me!”
A sentiment echoed by his pears: Josh showed maturity and dedication beyond his years.
The three newly promoted Midshipmen are now relishing the next phase in their Maritime Reserve careers; FLEX (Final Leadership Exercise) and then Fleetboard (a two-day interview and assessment). Each have already volunteered for roles within unit to help others on their Maritime Reserve journey.
If you’re interested in hearing more about HMS Eaglet, there is a presentation on the second Wednesday of every month at 1830 at Navy Regional Command Northern England, East Brunswick Dock, Liverpool. To book your place please contact 0151 707 3326 or email [email protected]
For more information about the Royal Naval Reserve visit www.royalnavy.mod.uk
