Te Awamutu sailor proud to give back through Navy service

Ordinary Helicopter Loadmaster Shaun Kirwan, 22, graduated among 61 men and 23 women from Basic Common Training intake 26/1, at a joint officer and sailor graduation on Saturday at Devonport Naval Base in Auckland. 

He received the Wayne 'Buck' Shelford MBE Award, as the recruit who demonstrated the highest level of physical training excellence.

Born in Te Kūiti, Ordinary Helicopter Loadmaster Kirwan grew up in Te Awamutu. 

He left Te Awamutu College partway through Year 13 to work in roles in construction, collision repair and the horse racing industry, which set him up with hands-on practical skills.

His desire to join the New Zealand Defence Force began when he was 12 years old, attracted by stories of camaraderie and travel.

“What ultimately pushed me to commit to joining the RNZN was my desire to give back to those who raised me - my community and everyone I care about, who played a role in shaping me into the man I am today.” 

Ordinary Helicopter Loadmaster Kirwan received plenty of encouragement and inspiration from a close Te Awamutu friend who was already in the Navy.

The realities of 16 weeks of basic training included living in groups of 15 or more fellow sailors in barrack accommodation, which he said was definitely a challenge.

“You quickly learn that everyone has different habits and ways of doing things.

“Coming together as a team to meet expectations and deadlines requires strong teamwork.”

A highlight was Efficiency Cup Week in the latter part of the course, which involved strenuous competitive challenges between the intake’s two divisions - named Achilles and Leander.

“Being pushed to my limits, while working with my shipmates, allowed me to prove to myself what I’m capable of.” 

Ordinary Helicopter Loadmaster Kirwan believes his family and friends will discover a more patient, resilient and happier person when they catch up with him after graduation.

Ahead of him is training towards becoming an operational Navy helicopter loadmaster.

Assigned to No. 6 Squadron at Base Auckland in Whenuapai, loadmasters are part of the crew of the Navy’s Seasprite maritime helicopters, which operate from ships. 

His duties will range from winching, load lifting, in-flight refuelling and photography to operating the helicopter’s Mag 58 machine gun.

Ordinary Helicopter Loadmaster Kirwan hopes to end up serving aboard the Seasprite’s future replacement, the MH-60R Seahawk.

“My advice to someone looking at the Defence Force is to take the leap,” he said.

“Coming from a small town with limited opportunities, the Navy has given me the chance to pursue my goals, chase my dreams and become the person I’ve always wanted to be.

“The reward is a strong sense of belonging and a support network of people who want to see you succeed.”