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Neath sailor honoured with Rutherford Trophy
28 January 2016
Leading Engineer Technician Weapon Engineer Submariner Luke Dineen-Willis, was recently awarded the Admiral Rutherford Trophy for leadership, courage and commitment whilst completing his degree.
Currently in his final year of the Thunderer Squadron Defence Technical Undergraduate Scheme to complete a degree in engineering at the University of Portsmouth, Luke is justly proud of his achievements and opportunities since he joined the RN in 2009.
Luke received his trophy, at the opening of HMS Collingwood’s Rutherford building, from Lady Fleur Boyce, wife of the late Vice Admiral Malcolm Rutherford CBE, former Commanding Officer of HMS Collingwood.
It was the latest in a collection of awards he has gained so far in his career, including receiving the Deterrent Patrol Pin in 2011.
It has been an excellent opportunity for me
Luke cites his time on HMS Vanguard as one of the highlights of his career so far, as well as the various locations he has visited to undergo training to progress his career and knowledge.
Originally from Briton Ferry, Neath, Luke now lives with his wife Hannah and 12 week old son, Oliver, in Fareham, Hampshire.
An ex employee of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council, Luke said of receiving this award “I feel very honoured to have been put forward for this award and to be presented it by Lady Fleur Boyce at HMS Collingwood.
“I am now concentrating on my most recent draft to Thunderer Squadron; it has been an excellent opportunity for me, not only is it allowing me to complete my engineering degree, but also to provide me with the very best preparation for Initial Officer Training at Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth”.
HMS Collingwood is the home of the Maritime Warfare School which contributes to the operational capability of the Fleet by providing first class training to all officers and ratings of the Royal Navy in their professional specialisations which include, Weapon Engineering, Communications, and Warfare.
The training they receive is relevant, agile and flexible in order to keep pace with the challenging operational needs.