Sailor follows in his family's footsteps to join Royal Navy

Trainee Aircraft Handler Jed Walter joined the Royal Navy in May and has now completed his 10 weeks initial naval training course at HMS Raleigh in Cornwall.

The course culminates with the passing-out- parade attended by families and friends. Jed’s brother Seaman Specialist Seth Walter was among the guests watching from the stands. Seth joined the Royal Navy in 2009.

Jed, whose previous jobs include working in a hospital, a holiday park and for an insurance company, said: “I wanted a job with more purpose and something I could be proud of. I was quite lost for a career and I wanted to feel like I was making a difference, be it to one other person or to many others.

“My brother has been in the Navy now for seven years and he showed me the good and bad sides and I thought why not give it a go.

“It’s turned out to be a pretty good decision so far.”

Over the past 10 weeks, Jed has been given a thorough induction into the Royal Navy, learning skills that he will rely upon throughout his time in the Service.

He said: “Initial training was harder than I was anticipating. It’s not the phys or the kit musters, everything is manageable, but I don’t think anything can prepare you for being away from home. I’m in a long-term relationship and that’s one of the reasons why I’m doing this, to build up a career and a future for me and my girlfriend, Amber.

“I was highly dependent on my mum before coming here, I’m not afraid to say that, but having to fend for myself has certainly made me more independent and self assured.

“I’ve made some really good friendships here and there’s a good set of lads that will be going on to the next stage of training with me, so I’m looking forward to it.”

Jed and Seth are both former pupils of Robertsbridge Community College and have family connections with the Royal Navy through three uncles who previously served.

Seth is currently assigned to the Fishery Protection Squadron. His first ship was HMS Ark Royal and he has also served on the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Ship Cardigan Bay. Seth arrived back from a deployment to the Falkland Islands just in time for Jed’s passing-out- parade.

He said: “I joined the Royal Navy to see the world and for the pay and pension. I’ve seen lots of places so far and I want to see more. I’m really proud of Jed. Seeing him on parade brought back some good memories for me.”

Visit www.royalnavy.mod.uk or call 03456 00 53 02.

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