Able Seaman (Tactical Systems) [AB(TSM)] Mark Cottis was recently awarded a Good Conduct Medal in recognition of over 15 years of service in the Royal Navy and to mark the occasion he decided to have his picture taken by the Fleet photographers.
AB(TSM) Cottis said:
"When I told my father about it he suggested that I have the photograph taken wearing my great-grandfather's Good Conduct Medal too.
"He was a Master at Arms in the Royal Navy and served at the Battle of Jutland during the First World War."
Mark's family connection with the Services spans generations, with his grandfather, Harry, serving in the Coldstream Guards, his father, Alan, a chief sonar operator onboard O- and S-boats, his stepmother, Joanne, being a member of the nursing branch, and his brother-in-law, Paul Haines, currently serving in the Navy as an Able Seaman.
"It isn't the first time one of the family has had their portrait done either," AB(TSM) Cottis continued.
"My grandfather had his painted when he was a president of a British Legion branch. That's another tradition that's carrying on into the future."
AB(TSM) Cottis's Royal Navy career has seen him serve on HMS Vanguard, Victorious and Vengeance and now he works ashore with Flag Officer Sea Training at HM Naval Base Clyde.