Two Army Reservists and two Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) have been presented with a prestigious certificate by the Lord-Lieutenant for Renfrewshire in recognition of their outstanding service to the Armed Forces and Cadet organisations.
The ceremony, held at Paisley Abbey on Thursday 29th May, saw recipients receive their Certificates of Meritorious Service from Colonel Peter McCarthy.
Colonel McCarthy, who serves as The King’s personal representative for the Lieutenancy of Renfrewshire, signed and presented each certificate to thank the recipients for their unwavering efforts and contributions to both their civilian and military communities.
‘I am always delighted to have the opportunity to present these Certificates of Meritorious Service to our Reservists and the adult instructors in the Cadet organisations,’ said Colonel McCarthy.
‘Tonight’s recipients have all demonstrated a very special commitment and dedication to the service of their country and, in the case of the adult instructors, to the Cadet organisations. These selfless volunteers have made a lasting positive impact on the lives of the young people they lead, providing them with skills for life along with an unparalleled sense of responsibility and citizenship.
‘I am full of admiration at all of the wonderful individual achievements behind each of these awards.’
Two Reservists from 102 Field Squadron Royal Engineers, Paisley’s local Army Reserve unit and part of 71 Engineer Regiment, received the coveted awards from Colonel McCarthy during the event.
“I think receiving this award is recognition from my peers of everything I have done and achieved in my Reserve career, which has spanned nearly 40 years,’ commented Warrant Officer 2 Gerald Turnbull.
“There’s a lot to love about being a Reservist, but for me the best part of it is that you get the best of both worlds: you do your civilian job through the week, and in the evenings or on weekends you learn new skills with the Reserves that can help with your civilian role. Not only that, but you can travel to amazing places and make some fantastic friends on the way.”
Awards were also given to two CFAVs from West Lowland Battalion Army Cadet Force and 4 Air Experience Flight, RAF Air Cadets, acknowledging their commitment to providing a memorable experience and valuable skills development for young people within their units.
Sergeant Major Instructor Gordon Campbell of West Lowland Battalion said of his achievement: “Getting an award like this isn’t just a recognition of my time and service with the Army Cadets, it’s also a reflection of all the adult volunteers I’ve worked with to support the youngsters in our Detachments.
“There are too many highlights of my time as a CFAV to count, but it’s always a great feeling to see kids coming through our doors, especially those who come from disadvantaged backgrounds or who are a bit unsure of themselves, who then grow and develop and become confident enough to mentor the younger ones who come in after them.”
Colonel Ted Shields, Chief Executive of Lowland RFCA, said of this years’ winners: “I congratulate and thank all our Reservists, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, Cadets and Civilians whose dedication and service have been officially recognised by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for Renfrewshire.
“It is often said that our Reservists and volunteers are “twice the citizen” – committed to serving our Nation and their communities on top of their everyday jobs and personal lives. It is a tall order, and those who have received Certificates of Meritorious Service have gone above and beyond in this respect. Their respective units and organisations have all benefited from their skills, determination and selflessness. They are a credit to the Defence community and the Nation. Thank you and well done.”
