A Night of Honour, Service and Inspiration: Lord-Lieutenant Cadet Awards Ceremony

On 20th May, the Shropshire Army Cadet Force hosted this year’s Lord-Lieutenant Cadet Award Ceremony at the historic Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery. Surrounded by family, friends, and distinguished guests, the event stood as a shining tribute to dedication, leadership, and service among Shropshire’s young cadets and adult volunteers.

Presiding over the evening was The Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire, His Majesty’s representative in the county, who personally presented awards to the outgoing Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadets in recognition of their exceptional year of service. Each cadet had the opportunity to reflect on their journey, speaking from the heart about the honour, personal growth, and life-changing experiences their role had brought them.

Their words moved all in attendance and their accomplishments will undoubtedly inspire others, whether their future lies in the Armed Forces, higher education, or careers in the wider world. Their cadet experience has laid a foundation for excellence, leadership, and service.

She  thanked and commended the following outgoing cadets for their exemplary commitment:

• SCC – Cadet Leading Hand Markus FILIMONOVS
• CCF – Cadet Warrant Officer Millicent PLUMB
• ACF – Cadet Company Sergeant Major Izzy McAREE
• RAF AC – Cadet Warrant Officer Sophia WILLIAMS

The ceremony then turned to welcome the newly appointed Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadets, each introduced through powerful and insightful citations read by senior officers from their respective cadet organisations. These citations spoke volumes about the character, commitment, and potential of the cadets stepping into this prestigious role. The Lord-Lieutenant presented each with their insignia, marking the beginning of their ambassadorial year.

The Lord-Lieutenant warmly welcomed:

• SCC – Cadet Leading Hand Sean HEIGHWAY
• CCF – Serjeant James WATTS
• ACF – Cadet Staff Sergeant Willow CHATTINGTON-LOWE
• RAF AC – Cadet Warrant Officer Tabitha FISH

Following these distinguished appointments, the spotlight turned to the Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs), the dedicated individuals who give so much behind the scenes. The Lord-Lieutenant awarded four certificates of achievement and one County Meritorious Certificate, each preceded by heartfelt citations from their commanding officers. These volunteers were recognised for their outstanding contribution to cadet development, community engagement, and youth leadership.

Lord-Lieutenant’s Certificates of Achievement:

• SCC – Chaplain Bertram SHINTON
• ACF – Captain Ceri STOKES
• RAF AC – Squadron Leader John FEAST
• RAF AC – Flight Lieutenant Allison FEAST

County Meritorious Certificate:

• ACF – Bugle Major Tony BENNETT

In recognition of continued service and unwavering dedication, Cadet Force Long Service Medals were also awarded to two adult volunteers for 12 years of commitment.

Cadet Force Long Service Medals

• ACF – Major Lisa HICKMAN
• ACF – Captain Ceri STOKES

To conclude the evening, the Lord-Lieutenant delivered a warm and heartfelt closing address. She expressed immense pride in the cadets, both outgoing and incoming, and thanked honoured guests, the Lieutenancy, uniformed services, CFAVs, Cadets and their families for their continued support. Her words reflected the spirit of the evening: one of gratitude, inspiration, and celebration of the very best in young people and community service.