Alan C Willis

Born in Winchester - Made in the Royal Navy Alan C Willis

Starting a career in the Royal Navy begins with some heavy-duty training, and back in the 1970s the only option open to a 15-year-old under-achiever was to join HMS Ganges the tough boys training establishment. Making mistakes in training meant several days on the No9 punishment routine, but he eventually managed to muddle through and specialise as a Sparker in Radio Communications trade. In this book he details some of the tough times in training and recalls amusing anecdotes which captures his real feelings and desire of being 'The Button Boy' standing on top of the famous mast. His stories of running up and down the long-covered way with a mattress on his head and standing on a dustbin bellowing "I am a wanker" at full scream. Alan went on to serve onboard the famous warship HMS Ark Royal and spent many hours watchkeeping whilst travelling around the world. He later trained as a window ladder gymnast and field gun runner in the Royal Navy Display Team. This memoire tells of his misfortunes (and fortunes) of life at school, at sea, and how the military training created many opportunities to be successful in the civilian business world of technology.