Award for top trainee

A young aircraft engineer at Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose has just been presented with the ‘Trainee of the Term’ award on completion of his professional training on 771 Naval Air Squadron.

Air Engineer Technician (AET) Thomas Baker Joined the Royal Navy in July 2011. After completing his basic military training in HMS Raleigh and then his basic engineering course in HMS Sultan he joined Culdrose in May 2012. After six months further training he has been awarded his ‘qualified to maintain/sign’ status for the Sea King. Throughout his training Thomas has excelled in all aspects of his training and stood head and shoulders above his peers. The ‘Trainee of the Term’ award was presented by Commander Andy Ewan (Commander Air Engineering).

For the last six months Thomas has been working in the Engineering Training Section (ETS) at RNAS Culdrose which is responsible for the initial and career progression training of the aircraft engineers that work on the Sea King helicopter force. Every three month term ETS presents the ‘Trainee of the Term’ award. This is given to the trainee who throughout their training has performed to the highest standards in all areas. These include academic, attitude and military bearing.

Thomas said: “I found every element of the course enjoyable and challenging and hope that the Trainee of the Term and commander’s achievement awards will stand me in good stead as I plan to move through the ranks as quickly as possible.”

Originally from a small village near the town of Aylesbury, Thomas has lived there since he was 18 months old. His father served in the RN and grandfather in the merchant navy. Subsequently Thomas has always been interested in a career in the Armed forces. A keen sportsman he has played rugby for Aylesbury RFC and enjoys watching and playing as much as he can.

Photo MoD copyright