A ROYAL Navy sailor from Llandudno has completed his training to serve on warships and support ships around the world.

Able Rate Ewan Williams qualified as a naval airman, an old job title which nowadays includes both men and women, and joined the navy’s Aircraft Handlers’ Branch.

Naval airmen work on the flight decks of warships and support ships to allow flying operations and are specially training in firefighting and rescue.

North Wales Pioneer: A special ceremony was held at the Royal Naval School of Flight Deck Operations at RNAS Culdrose to mark the completion of training for 19 new sailors. Picture: Royal NavyA special ceremony was held at the Royal Naval School of Flight Deck Operations at RNAS Culdrose to mark the completion of training for 19 new sailors. Picture: Royal Navy

 

A special ceremony was held at Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose in Cornwall before the national lockdown for the 19 sailors who completed the training course.

The 21-year-old, a former pupil of St David’s College in Llandudno, said: “I’ve always wanted a career in the military and it was when I saw a documentary about the navy that made me want to join.

“I’ve really enjoyed the training because it’s been challenging; like when we learn how to rescue casualties at a fast pace. Next, I am really looking forward to getting on a ship, travelling to different countries and getting some experience of life in navy.”

Naval Airman Williams will now join 1700 Naval Air Squadron, which sends teams of sailors to work on ships around the world.

Lieutenant Commander Billy Benton, the commanding officer of the Royal Naval School of Flight Deck Operations, said: “I must congratulate all those who have completed their training. The coronavirus pandemic restrictions impacted the ability to conduct their course until the staff had taken stringent safety measures and risk assessment to ensure the training could continue.

"It is testament to the hard work and dedication of the school’s Royal Navy and civilian staff that the course has completed successfully; it was a real team effort.

“The members of Naval Airman Qualifying Course 3/19 should be immensely proud of what they have achieved under such testing circumstances.

"I would also like to especially thank their families for their support throughout their training who I am sure have been there providing words of support and guidance to get them to the end. I hope this support will continue as their careers progress.”