ONE of the most technically challenging military training courses in the world was completed by junior submariners.

Thirty-nine Clyde based junior submariners marked the completion of the Submarine Qualifying Course (SQC) at HM Naval Base Clyde.

The SQC provides future submariners with the knowledge essential for joining their first Royal Navy Submarine. The course aims to instil the absolute professionalism demanded by the Submarine Service with trainees required to demonstrate an intimate understanding of more than 30 complex engineering systems.

There to witness the occasion was Rear Admiral John Weale, Rear Admiral Submarines (RASM), and Gillian and Jamie Molyneux, the wife and son of submariner and George Medal recipient Lieutenant Commander Ian Molyneux.

The event featured the presentation of the Molyneux Prize, the annual award presented to the best trainee in SMQ across three classes of submarine – Vanguard class, Astute class and Trafalgar class vessels.

Engineer Technician (Weapon Engineer Submarines) (ET (WESM)) Davies was given this year’s prize by Gillian Molyneux.

ET Davies received the prize as he quickly settled into the submarine training environment, achieving the highest overall results in his entry as well as a superior final exam mark.

“ET Davies has been my top student during training and it has been my pleasure to instruct him,” said Chief Petty Officer (CPO) O’Neill, SMQ (North) Chief Instructor.

“I can see a very bright future for him within the Royal Navy Submarine Service and he has my strongest recommendation for the annual Molyneux Prize.”

In addition to the presentations to the students, Rear Admiral Weale was delighted to present watches to Gillian and Jamie Molyneux on behalf of Elliot and Brown.