During his time at HMS Pembroke Peter passed professionally for L/CK, acheiving 73% on 17th February 1975. He also attended a Firefighting course in April 1975 and qualified No.6 Intermediate Firefighting Course. He worked in the wardroom and was "a methodical cook with good professional capabilities. Developing well in as a leading rate." Pete told me that during the fire fighting course they had to do an exercise that even the firemen don't do, as it's considered too dangerous! This involved a group of men going down a ladder into basically a large metal box (with the top of the ladder being the only way out!) There would be a large tray of oil at the bottom - which was on fire! They had to get to the bottom and line up along the wall and wait until everyone was down before setting off their fire extinguishers! If anyone went too soon it would create a fire ball that would catch anyone still on the ladder! Despite this, it was essential training, as a real fire out at sea had to be dealt with otherwise it could spread throughout the ship - and there wouldn't be anyone else around that could tackle it for you!!!