Jolly day for captain Jordan
20 April 2007 By Rachel Irving
An escape to Navy life was just what the doctor ordered for one young man when he was granted a very special wish last month.
Nine-year-old Jordan, who is fighting leukaemia, got a chance to peek into the Navy world as part of the Make-a-Wish Foundation's annual Wish Day campaign.
His mother Leanne said the day was, "a chance for Jordan to be just a kid with his brother and sister," she said.
"It's an escape back to the 'normal' world, away from the other world we live in for the time being. It's really given the whole family a much-needed boost."
Arriving at Captain's Landing via WA Water Police Launch, Jordan, Leanne, dad Ray, sister Tiana, and brother Ryan, were greeted by Stirling's CO CAPT Steve Davies and XO, LCDR Chris Smith, for a whirlwind tour of the base and some of its units.
Jordan quickly changed into a set of his very own black submarine overalls, complete with HMAS Collins hat, embroidered name tag and captain's soft rank insignia, ready for the day ahead.
"These are great," he said of his overalls, taking them to school the next day to show his classmates.
Firing watershots onboard HMAS Collins, peering through the periscope and getting up close and personal with a 5-inch gun at Training Unit Anzac Ship Support Centre (), were all memorable moments for the youngster, but it was firing a weapon at the Weapons Training Simulator Systems () which proved to be the highlight.
"It was good," said a beaming Jordan, though his smile suggested it was much more than 'good'.
CMDR Glen Miles, Commanding Officer of HMAS Collins, said Jordan's visit was special for him and his crew as well.
"I like to see the look on kids' faces when they come across the gangway or hop on the periscope. And I know the parents get a lot out of it as well," CMDR Miles said.
"It's a good feeling giving something back to a family like this.
"The highlight for me was seeing Jordan's face during the watershot when the mist filled the area - it was great."
Jordan's big dream is to one day holiday on a cruise ship, but the doctors insist on him finishing his treatment first.
Stirling's ABDEN Karleigh Barbour, a Make-a-Wish volunteer, suggested that a visit to Garden Island might be a good alternative. And it was.
Jordan's mum, Leanne, said the day was just what the family needed.
"To experience a day like last Wednesday is everything to us. Thank you to everyone - we will never forget."
Garden Island will transform into Wish Island on April 27, supporting the Make a Wish foundation's Wish Day. HMAS Collins is heavily involved in the program and will host up to 40 youngsters on the day.
