Exeter, 1st October 2024 — The annual Lord Lieutenant for Devon’s Awards ceremony, organised by Wessex RFCA on behalf of the Lord Lieutenant of Devon, was held today at County Hall in Exeter, honouring individuals from the Reserve Forces and Cadet community for their exceptional service and dedication.
The prestigious Lord-Lieutenant’s Certificate for Meritorious Service recognises those who exemplify outstanding leadership, commitment, and innovation in their roles. These awards celebrate high-quality long service, intense contributions in support of their units, and significant efforts within their local communities. Recipients are acknowledged not only by their peers but also by the communities they serve, reflecting their enduring performance and exemplary standards.
This year’s ceremony celebrated a diverse group of 17 awardees, each making significant contributions to their organizations. Among the honourees were:
– Lieutenant Commander Rebecca Filtness, HMS Vivid
– Squadron Leader Howard Dymond, Devon and Somerset WHQ
– Wing Commander Simon Smale, Exeter School CCF
– Major Daniel Trim, Exeter School CCF
– Captain Victoria Squires, C Coy Devon ACF
– Lieutenant Marie Milligan, B Coy Devon ACF
– WO1 Paul Holden, B Coy Devon ACF
– WO2 Steven Barnes, 6 RIFLES
– A/WO2 Robert Cooper, RMR Bristol
– Colour Sergeant Peter Bickley, Plymouth Drake
– Petty Officer (SCC) Alec Mack, Tiverton SCC
– Serjeant Daniel Berriman, 6 RIFLES
– Corporal Mark Ford, D Squadron Royal Wessex Yeomanry
– Corporal Sam Wheelden, D Squadron Royal Wessex Yeomanry
– Lance Corporal Lindsey Oldfield, D Squadron Royal Wessex Yeomanry
– Mr. Chris Palfrey, D Squadron Royal Wessex Yeomanry
– Company Sergeant Major Michael Davey – Devon Army Cadet Force
His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant’s Awards hold significant value, standing just one step below national honours. This ceremony not only highlights the achievements of the recipients but also reinforces the vital role that the Reserve Forces and Cadet community play in supporting national interests and local initiatives.
As the awards were presented, the atmosphere was filled with pride and inspiration, celebrating the unwavering dedication of these individuals who embody the spirit of service and community engagement.
In addition to the Certificates for Meritorious Service, local employers were recognised with a Silver ERS Award for their support of defence. Cadets were also appointed as Lord Lieutenant’s Cadets for Devon for the upcoming year, a prestigious role for these exceptional young role models.
The Awards ceremonies celebrate outstanding contributions to the Reserve and Cadet Forces in the Wessex region, organized by Wessex RFCA on behalf of the Lord Lieutenant in each county. By honouring individuals and organisations dedicated to military readiness and community engagement, these awards deepen appreciation for the essential role of Reserve and Cadet Forces in both local and national contexts, while strengthening the connection between the military and their communities.
