Award for excellence

L to R: POMTSM James Stainton, Chris Beer and CMDR Ian Salter with the Chris Beer Shield.

The Chris Beer Shield for 2003 was recently presented to POMTSM James Stainton by SMFEG Chief of Staff CMDR Ian Salter.

The annual award is given to a recipient from Training Authority-Submarines (TA-SM) for excellence in the face of adversity and dedication to submarine training.

POMTSM James Stainton performed the duties of TA-SM Propulsion Instructor and during this time his appearance, dedication enthusiasm, attitude and service ethos has been a credit to the Navy.

His students have commented on his knowledge, enthusiasm and his service ethos.

Despite some difficult times, PO Stainton has maintained a sense of humour and very high personal standards and has recently completed several units of a Graduate Certificate of Logistic Engineering via correspondence with Murdoch University.

At 1040 pm on October 14 1993, the ambitions and aspirations of 18 year old Chris Beer came to a tragic halt. At that time, Chris was driving home along Great Eastern Highway.

One kilometre west of Sawyers Valley, a speeding, drunk driver crashed into the rear of Chris’s vehicle forcing him off the highway and into a large tree. As a result of the impact, Chris suffered severe brain damage.

Chris was in a coma for four months and suffered many medical complications. His prognosis was poor.

Through sheer determination, he has surpassed all medical expectations, though he still remains profoundly disabled.

Prior to the accident, Chris was Deputy Head Boy at Eastern Hills Senior High School, a keen sportsman, and had set high sights on joining the RAN with hopes of becoming a submariner.

It is Chris’s wish that the Chris Beer Shield be awarded to a member of TA-SM staff annually, in recognition of their outstanding contribution and determination in achieving excellence in the face of adversity.

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