A CHIEF Petty Officer from Torpoint has been awarded the Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service for his role in the training of the Iraqi River Patrol Service, under the harsh conditions of post-war Iraq. Neil Terry, 41, was put on 10 days' notice to go to Iraq from HMS Raleigh, where he was working as a instructor of senior ratings in seamanship. His mission as Chief Seamanship Instructor was to provide small boat handling expertise to the Royal Naval Training Team, and create the fledgling patrol service in southern Iraq. The training team, which comprised three Royal Naval officers, two senior ratings (an engineer and Neil, both experienced in teaching handling rigid inflatable, and Dory-style hard boats), and a Royal Marine Corporal, were based in Saddam Hussein's former palace in Basra. The citation praises his 'exemplary professional performance during which he worked in the harshest of physical conditions to demonstrate huge stamina, commitment and drive in a demanding task. 'His strength of leadership and example won the trust of his Iraqi students, enabling him to instill in them safe and professional practices. 'Neil took responsibility far above his position, and demonstrated endless resolve in supporting the team logistically. 'His aggressive determination, courage, stoicism and resourcefulness were remarkable, and in the finest traditions of the Royal Navy.'
