Able Rate Robert Oates, 21 from Helston, has graduated as a warfare specialist from HMS Collingwood in Hampshire, after completing his phase two training with Victory Squadron.

Robert, a former student of Helston Community College whose father, Michael, still lives in the town, joined the Royal Navy last November. “For me this is living the dream," he said. "I am serving my Queen and country. My career highlight was completing my initial training at HMS Raleigh.”

Whilst on course, Robert took part in Operation Trafalgar, a humanitarian disaster relief exercise and supported the annual HMS Collingwood open day. His service career choice sees him following in the footsteps of his father who served as a Chief Petty Officer with the Fleet Air Arm, Royal Navy.

At HMS Collingwood Robert undertook the warfare specialist training course to learn how to set up and operate the Royal Navy’s systems that provide information to ships on air and surface activities. As a warfare specialist on board, he will be part of the team detecting threats to the ship, identifying targets and making crucial tactical decisions. This is a vital job, involving some of the world’s most advanced electronic systems. After successfully completing the course, Robert will now join his first ship HMS Somerset.