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US Navy visitor for HMS Raleigh
4 April 2016
A representative from the US Navy has been given an insight into the diverse range of training carried out at HMS Raleigh in Cornwall.
Captain Mark Rudesill, who currently works at the Embassy of the United States in London, spent two days at the Royal Navy training base in Torpoint, where he was given the opportunity to meet students at varying stages of their careers.
Highlights of the visit included a chance to visit HMS Raleigh’s Sea Sense Training Centre on the River Lynher.
As well as providing a basic introduction to the Royal Navy’s new recruits on navigation and seamanship, the centre also provides advancement training for sailors across the Fleet, teaching them how to drive the Pacific 24 rigid inflatable boats.
Most people associate HMS Raleigh with initial naval training for recruits, but there is a wealth of other training that goes on here.
Capt Rudesill was also shown HMS Raleigh’s multi-million pound Replenishment-at-Sea training rig which teaches sailors and Royal Fleet Auxiliary staff the procedures for transferring fuel and other vital supplies from ship-to-ship at sea.
At the Defence Maritime Logistics School, which provides training for Logistics Officers and ratings, specialising as chefs, stewards, supply chain and writers, Capt Rudesill was given a tour of the facilities and met with staff and trainees.
Capt Rudesill’s visit culminated with the passing-out-parade when he was invited to inspect the successful recruits, present prizes and take the salute.
The Commanding Officer of HMS Raleigh, Captain Rob Bellfield, said: “Most people associate HMS Raleigh with initial naval training for recruits, but there is a wealth of other training that goes on here.
"It was good to be able to show Capt Rudesill the role we provide in supplying highly trained and competent personnel to join front-line operations.
"With the US Navy and the Royal Navy working so close together on operations, it was also good for our junior sailors to meet Capt Rudesill and hear from him the similarities and also the differences between our two Navies.”