Lieutenant Commander Choate recognised for dedication towards next generation of Navy officers

LIEUTENANT Commander Laurence Earl Choate has been in the navy for 33 years and has been recognised for his dedication towards North East Fleet Support Unit

Lieutenant Commander Laurie Choate, of Patrol Boat Group, at HMAS Coonawarra, Darwin, received a Conspicuous Service Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List. PICTURE: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE

LIEUTENANT Commander Laurence Earl Choate has been in the Navy for 33 years and has been recognised for his dedication towards North East Fleet Support Unit.

As an experienced marine engineer, he headed the Cairns based unit and was responsible for making sure the navy ships that came in were repaired or maintained and fit for work.

He now lives and works in Darwin.

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He said his goal was to make sure the team appreciated the value and skills they had in repairing the boats.

“I also boosted the purely technical nature of their skills by introducing project management and scheduling processes,” he said.

“I spent time with each and every member of the team when they joined to make sure they understood the importance of their role and the contribution they would make to the Fleet.

“I encouraged them to feel proud of the sight of a ship safely leaving the wharf after we had undertaken maintenance for them.”

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He said it was an honour to receive the Conspicuous Service Medal.

“I never thought I’d receive an honour like this and I’m humbled to be recognised for what felt like simply doing my job,” he said.

“My wife is really pleased that I’ve been recognised in this way but I also see it as recognition of her support during my career, not just for this position but many postings to sea and ashore that came with their own challenges and tough times.”