It would be a brave man or woman who failed to follow the doctor’s orders of Surg Lts Jamie Phillips, Gareth Wild or Richard Westerman.

The three Navy doctors have successfully completed the All Arms Commando Course at the Commando Training Centre for the Royal Marines at Lympstone in Devon.

And in addition to the coveted Green Beret, one of their number –Jamie Phillips – was also awarded the Commando Medal for his efforts.

WO Simon Wright said: “This would be an outstanding achievement for any Serviceman or woman.

“For a Royal Navy doctor, with limited previous infantry knowledge, to be awarded the Commando Medal on a course concentrating upon amphibious infantry skills speaks volumes for the character and ability of this man.”

Surg Lt Phillips said: “Receiving the Commando Medal was a nice surprise but a huge shock. The training team should take credit for such a thorough but demanding course.”

The gruelling challenges that the three overcame included an endurance course, a Tarzan assault course, a nine-mile speed march and a 30-mile burdened march.