Robert Denton joined the Air Training Corps at 17 as a cadet, and has since successfully applied for a commission with the RAF Volunteer Reserve (Training Branch), becoming a Pilot Officer early this year. “I wanted to make sure that future generations of air cadets get the same benefit and professional advice that I did.”

Lorretta Painter joined the Sea Cadet Corps 25 years ago, when her eldest son joined as a cadet. She has been involved with the youth as a school assistant, Cub Scout leader and as a member of the SCC staff. Lorretta initially joined the SCC when girls were first entered into the corps, and was named Officer in Charge of the Girls Nautical Training Contingent. She continued in this post until the contingent were fully amalgamated into the SCC.

Captain Ruth Carter has been involved with the Army Cadet Force for fifteen years, and joined after watching her sons progress as cadets. Ruth had previously spent time working with the Guides and Scout Association, and missed the contact she had with young people.

Capt Wallace Williams is the first adult instructor from an overseas cadet unit to achieve the Membership through CVQO and City & Guilds.

 It was smiles all round at C Company Lothian and Borders ACF (Army Cadet Force) as Company Commander Major Brenda Goldstein presented a hard earned Level 3 Certificate from the Institute of Leadership and Management to a very proud adult volunteer Sergeant Instructor Alan Laidlaw.

John Fay of Borneo Band & Bugles, Durham ACF, is the first adult instructor to complete the BTEC First Diploma in Music whilst still delivering the programme to his cadets. He is also the first appointed: VQ Officer - Music.

Fifteen years ago, Janet Brown was watching her sons, both cadets at the local Remembrance Day Parade. The Squadron Commander commented that it was a pity that none of the girls from the squadron could go to camp that year as there was no female leader to accompany them. After a tentative enquiry about what help was needed, Janet was asked to start right away and has been there ever since!

David Lewis, District Officer with London Area SCC was delighted to hear the news as he was also one of the very first Licentiateship graduates through CVQO in early 2005. He cannot believe that his new-found passion for the Sea Cadet Corps and his rapid rise through the organisation, having joined in 1994 as a civilian instructor, has enabled him to achieve such a prestigious and well recognised award.