A TRAINEE sailor from Runcorn is a step closer to becoming an aircraft handler after he completed 10 weeks of intense Royal Navy training at HMS Raleigh. John Urmson is now set to attend his passing-out ceremony before colleagues and family. Father-of-three John is a former Grange Comprehensive pupil who quit his former job as a process operator to secure a better future for his girlfriend Lisa, and his children, Alex, 10, Jayden, six and Joshua, three. John will transfer to the Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose, also in Cornwall. There he will learn to use the lifts, mechanical handlers and chocks and lashings used on board ships to secure the aircraft to the deck. He will also learn how to fight fuel, hanger and aircraft fires. The Royal Navy’s initial naval training course is underpinned by nine Core Maritime Skills that are the foundations of naval life and underpin operational effectiveness. Recruits are taught the basics of Naval discipline and customs. They learn about navigation and can take the helm of their own medium-sized inflatable boat during a waterborne orienteering exercise. A Navy spokesman said that with personnel playing a vital role in Afghanistan and other land-based operations, recruits undergo training in basic combat skills which includes survival in the field. Fitness is a key component of training and is delivered using a disciplined military fitness programme which focuses on developing co-ordination and individual physical strength and endurance. As the course progresses the recruits take part in three extended exercises to test their skills and understanding of the principles they have been taught. John said: “The training was hard, but well worth it. “It all worked because of our petty officer instructor, who was a huge help.” | 
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