A relatively detailed picture of the training of a new naval recruit, from recruiting office to first voyage, with an overt recruiting intention.

An opening sequence compares modern warships to Nelson's fleet, noting advances in technology, but claiming that traditions, and the importance of the individual sailor, have not changed. The film then follows 'Hale' from a London recruiting office to the shore establishment HMS Ganges and through his training, including kit issue and care; food; drill and exercise; classroom technical training at various levels; rowing a cutter; rifle and gun training; parades and recreation; also film of a signals school. Various elements in the training are stressed, eg cultivation of team spirit with controlled competitiveness, discipline with ability to command (selection of 'leading boys'); 3 times a term, trainees are taken to sea on a destroyer. His training complete, Hale joins his first ship, takes part in manoeuvres ('air attack', breeches buoy) and goes ashore in Gibraltar before returning to sea.

Notes

Remarks: good: informative without being tedious and the recruiting message well put over, without being overbearing.

Documentation/associated material: COI file - shotlist, script, music cue sheet