Umar Durrant knew he wanted to volunteer to serve in the Royal Bermuda Regiment. But he did not know that his eagerness to learn and train would win the award for best recruit at this year’s two-week training camp.

“It felt good,” the 22-year-old told The Royal Gazette. “Really good. I really felt like it could have gone to anybody.

“It was shocking. I didn’t see it coming,” he said.

Mr Durrant said that part of the reason why he knew he wanted to join the Regiment was his years working in the Junior Leader programme.

“I believe I joined it back in 2005,” he said. “I spent six years there and really enjoyed my time there. I was always into action and adventure personally, so it sort of fit me.”

He said that while his background helped him tackle the various challenges presented to him during the camp — not all recruits were so fortunate.

“For me, the hardest part was probably helping out the other people,” he said. “Not everyone knew what to expect. Some people were shocked to find out they had to wake up at 5am for physical training.”

Mr Durrant described getting the opportunity to train with a rifle was a highlight of the camp, although he admitted being less fond of drills.

“I have nothing against it and the discipline it requires, but it’s sometimes boring standing there,” he said.

“I want to be where the action is. For me, I love being out in the field.”

With the two-week camp now behind him, he said he has now set his sights on a promotion to Lance Corporal, and has expressed a desire to continue his service in the Regiment after his initial term has concluded.

Asked if he would recommend other’s joining the Regiment, he responded without hesitation: “Absolutely.”

He explained: “There are college opportunities, free travel, there are opportunities for careers in the Regiment and, even if you are not interested in a career in the Regiment, it can provide recommendations and contacts.

“It definitely helps you get ahead in life.”