By Admin. Updated 11:22 a.m., Friday, July 26, 2024, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
In a tale of dedication and transformation, AB Jarron Leighton, 30, has upgraded himself from a security worker at Randy’s Supermarket in St. Vincent to a standout member of the Royal Navy, achieving remarkable success in an exceptionally short time.
AB Leighton, who joined the Navy in 2023 after more than a decade of service in retail security, has swiftly distinguished himself as a rising star in the military’s culinary ranks.
He originally hails from the West Kingstown community of Edinboro and is a past student of the Dr. JP Eustace Memorial Secondary School and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College.
Within just nine months, he has been honoured with two prestigious awards: “Top Student of the Class” and Trainee of the Year 2023/2024.
Mr. Leighton told One News SVG that his current achievements “are a testament” to his “extraordinary work ethic and unyielding commitment to excellence”.
“Transitioning from the structured environment of supermarket security to the demanding training of the Defence Basic Chef Course, he has shown an ability to adapt and excel,” Mr Leighton said.
He said he was “unfazed by the rigorous syllabus”, and he “tried his best to consistently perform at the highest level, and to master both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in culinary arts”. The culinary enthusiast also said he possessed a willingness to assist and mentor less experienced classmates during the marinization phase.
He said all the efforts paid off as he not only mastered the complex requirements of Defence Engagement training but also earned exceptional results in both theory and practical assessments.
He said he is honoured that his front-of-house instructors have praised his proficiency and professional demeanor, noting his ability to thrive under pressure.
“This phase of training, which simulates real-world naval operations, was an extremely important test to demonstrate readiness for the challenges of a busy galley environment, where teamwork and precision are paramount,” Mr. Leighton said.
In the end, Leighton’s success culminated in him outperforming 69 of his peers to earn the highest grades in the Defence Basic Chef Course.
His achievements were formally recognized when he was awarded the “Worshipful Company of Cooks Catering Trainee of the Year” Trophy, a prestigious accolade that highlights his skill, dedication, and potential for future leadership within the Navy.
Mr. Leighton said his “story is not just one of personal triumph but also a reflection of the values he embodies: humility, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of excellence”.
He also shared a message with going people in his Edinboro community in St. Vincent who are dreaming big but might feel constrained by their current circumstances.
“It can be done, just sacrifice for a little bit. Nothing is hard!” he said.
AB Leighton said while he still has a long way to go, he hopes his journey from a security guard to an award-winning naval chef serves as an inspiration to young people in St. Vincent, demonstrating that with dedication and the right attitude, one can achieve extraordinary success in any field.
He said that as he continues to serve aboard HMS Prince Of Wales, he remains committed to developing his proficiencies in the Royal Navy.
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One News SVG 