A 17-YEAR-OLD Royal Navy recruit from Widnes has followed in his father’s footsteps to complete his basic training at HMS Raleigh, in Cornwall.

Recruit Harry Greason was one of 51 trainee sailors on parade to mark the successful completion of their 10-week initial naval training course. Among the families and friends watching in the stands was Harry’s father, Lieutenant Commander Paul Greason, who joined the Royal Navy as a Rating and completed his own basic training at HMS Raleigh 27 years ago.

Harry said: “Dad did inspire me to join but my main reason for joining up was for the opportunities you get in the Royal Navy. Training has been good. It’s been hard sometimes, but it has developed me as a person. I’ve matured quite a lot. Dad gave me some tips before I came. He said I needed to make sure I’m organised and have a positive attitude with everything I’m asked to do.”

Lt Cdr Greason began his Naval career in 1991 as an Artificer apprentice. He was promoted to the Officer Corps in 2008. To date Lt Cdr Greason has served on seven Royal Navy warships.

He said: “I am delighted to return to HMS Raleigh 27 years after I joined up to see my son pass out. Throughout my time I have been fortunate to serve with some truly inspirational people and met some amazing characters. I’ve sailed in each of the oceans and visited most continents. I’ve also been able to visit some tremendous and horrendous places; I’ve enjoyed both in equal measure and its taught me a great deal about life. As any service person will tell you, with service comes sacrifices and I am grateful for the continued support and understanding of my family and friends.”

Harry’s next challenge is learn the skills to qualify as a communication and information systems specialist. This stage of his training will take place at HMS Collingwood, in Hampshire. There he will learn how to operate highly sensitive radio and satellite systems to become a central member of the ship’s engineering department. Harry’s role at sea will be to send and receive vital messages from the shore and other ships, including orders, routine supply requests and other essential day to day communications.

Lt Cdr Greason was among a party of 16 guests who attended the parade to see Harry pass out of training. They included Harry’s mother, sisters, aunts, uncles, grandparents and two close family friends who Lt Cdr Greason had met during his time in the service.

Lt Cdr Greason said: “There are a number of people who have supported Harry as he has grown up. Those here were able to share in his achievement, but there are many others who will look on with pride.

“We are immensely proud that he has chosen to serve his country. Harry joins the Royal Navy at a really exciting time with new ships, aircraft and capabilities. All of which will present their own opportunities and challenges. I hope that he takes the opportunities to get a trade, develop further and enjoy a fulfilling career.”

The teenager is hoping to start his career at sea on a Type 23 frigate or a Type 45 destroyer. He said: “I’d like to start off on the smaller ships and establish myself and properly learn my trade. I would quite like to get commissioned as an officer, like my dad, but there is no rush as I am still young.”