A Boston teenager is making waves after achieving his lifelong dream of joining the Royal Navy, and he’s already proving to be a shining example for other young people in the area.
Joshua Walker, born at Pilgrim Hospital and educated at Swineshead Primary and Boston Grammar School, has recently completed his Royal Navy basic training at HMS Raleigh. At just 16 years and two months old, Josh is now stationed in Portsmouth, where he has begun his Weapons Engineering Specialist Training before joining the Navy’s surface fleet.
Josh’s journey is one of dedication, discipline, and determination. From an early age, he threw himself into community and youth activities, progressing through the Beavers, Cubs, and Sea Scouts before joining Boston Sea Cadets TS Cottesmore at the age of ten.
During his time with the Sea Cadets, Josh seized every opportunity that came his way, going offshore on training vessels TS John Jerwood and tall ship TS Royalist, parading in Trafalgar Square, and marching down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace for Trafalgar Day. His enthusiasm and commitment earned him numerous qualifications and experiences that helped prepare him for military life.
After finishing his GCSEs in June, Josh travelled to Cardiff to complete his Candidate Preparation Course and officially joined the Royal Navy on July 14th. He successfully passed his Part One training and proudly took part in his passing out parade on October 17th, surrounded by family, friends, and fellow veterans who made the long journey to Plymouth to support him.
His mother, Eve Walker, said: “We are incredibly proud of Josh, not only for what he’s achieved, but for the example he sets to other young people. He’s shown that with focus and determination, dreams really can come true.”
Josh’s story is a wonderful reminder of the opportunities available to young people through community organisations like the Sea Cadets and the Armed Forces, and an inspiration to anyone aiming high.
