Able Seaman (AB) Ethan Martin, Boatswain’s Mate, joined the Royal Australian Navy in May 2022. Growing up in Lennox Head, he was drawn to a profession that offered action and unpredictability, explaining, ‘I wanted a job where each day would be different.’ Since enlisting, he has quickly established himself as a capable and dependable seamanship and small arms specialist.

AB Martin has served across several demanding and operationally focused units, including HMAS Cape Naturaliste, Port Services North and the Transit Security Element. His contributions to Australia’s maritime security mission have been significant, playing key roles on Operation Resolute and Operation Sovereign Borders. In these environments, he has undertaken high responsibility duties such as primary rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) coxswain, boarding party member, navigation yeoman and a member of the ship’s Medical Emergency Team.

Beyond his operational duties, AB Martin is known for his commitment to developing others. He has trained and mentored numerous new joiners in essential seamanship skills, strengthening unit cohesion and readiness. His leadership extends beyond the workplace, regularly organising social activities and sporting events for shipmates, fostering morale and connection across the team.

A career highlight for Ethan was his first international port visit, saying pulling into Bali remains one of his most memorable experiences. Outside of Navy life, he enjoys ‘camping, fishing and hanging out with my mates,’ embracing the outdoors and the strong sense of camaraderie that defines his service.