Last Friday Alex Bascombe, former WSC cadet and Squib sailor, passed out at HMS Raleigh after successfully completing the first part of his training to be come an aircraft technician specialising in helicopter maintenance.
His mother Rima and I, together with other members of his family, attended an impressive passing out parade at Raleigh where the salute was taken by Vice Admiral Charles Montgomery, the Second Sea Lord.
Rima, Alex and I met the Vice Admiral after the parade. He asked how Alex had found the basic training and what element was the biggest challenge. Alex said he thoroughly enjoyed the training but admitted he found some of the rope work in the gym the most difficult.
I discussed the sailing Olympics with the Vice Admiral who appreciated that we have a busy time ahead of us as a club. Naval security is likely to be provided by HMS Bulwark, the Fleet Amphibious flagship which will be moored in the bay.
Alex now moves on to phase 2 of his training in Gosport. He is also looking forward to sailing with the Navy and of course crewing in a Squib again next season when time permits.
Mark Bugler
Submitted on 17th October 2011
