An Cosantóir

www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 31 that may be required onboard the ship. This includes daily boat checks, cleaning stations, organising the watch system, training and briefing crew members and ensuring that all safety procedures are followed. I also make sure that deck and safety equipment is certified and ready for use. As part of the Seaman's Division, we are responsible for boat operations, berthing the ship, anchoring, towing, fisheries protection, gunnery and any other requirements on deck. Every day can be different, so we always have to be prepared for whatever is required. What advice would you give to someone about to embark on a career in the Naval Service? My advice would be to give it a go and don't be afraid or think that you can't do it. It is a very rewarding career and there are plenty of opportunities to learn, develop and progress. There will be challenging days, but they are often the days you learn the most from. Listen to the people around you, ask questions and take every opportunity that comes your way. Work hard, be a good team member and don't be afraid to push yourself outside your comfort zone. What do you enjoy the most about your role? The part I enjoy most is working together as a team. When you have a good bunch of people working together, the days go by much quicker and even difficult jobs become easier. Onboard a ship, everyone has their own responsibilities, but ultimately we depend on one another. I really enjoy that sense of teamwork and camaraderie. I also enjoy being able to pass on my experience to other crew members and seeing people develop their skills and confidence. What are your goals for the future? My main goal for the future is to continue progressing in my career and get promoted to CPO/SEA (Coxswain). I would also like to become the first female Coxswain within the Naval Service. It would be a very proud achievement for me after everything I have experienced since joining in 2007. I want to continue developing my leadership skills, knowledge and experience so that I am ready to take that next step when the opportunity comes. What is your favourite quote? It's not really a quote, but a motto we have onboard our ship that I think sums up our attitude and the importance of teamwork: 'SMALLER CREW, STRONGER TEAM.' What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self? I would tell my 18-year-old self to believe in yourself, take every opportunity that comes your way and don't be afraid to challenge yourself. You won't always know what is ahead of you, but that is part of the journey. Listen to advice, learn from the people around you and don't let fear stop you from trying something new. There will be difficult days along the way, but keep going and trust yourself. Looking back, joining the Naval Service opened up opportunities and experiences that I could never have imagined at 18. Onboard P71 with the Mayor of Waterford On parade for the commissioning of LÉ Aoibhinn LÉ Aoibhinn commissioning 2024 with my partner and his parents

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