John's a Major inspiration

7:51am Friday 16th May 2008

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A TROWBRIDGE man with no school qualifications who joined the Army as a lad has been awarded an MBE.

John Stevens, 49, signed up in 1977 after working for two years at Airsprung in Canal Road.

Frustrated with the lack of challenges and self-advancement, he decided to change his life for the better.

Using a combination of hard work, effort and commitment he rose through the ranks to become a Major in 2005.

His unique achievement spanning a 31-year military career has earned him recognition and respect after what he acknowledges was a humble beginning.

Last week the married father-of-two went to Buckingham Palace to receive the medal representing The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for Services in Iraq.

Mr Stevens is one of a select few serving soldiers to receive the award, which is part of the Operation Honours list.

Born in Bradford on Avon, he grew up in Studley Green in Trowbridge and despite moving to different parts of the world with the Army has returned to Trowbridge which he calls home.

He has served in Germany, Canada, USA, Northern Ireland, Honk Kong, Brunei, Malaysia, Kuwait, Singapore, Cyprus, the Falkland Islands, the Ascension Islands, Bosnia, Kosovo, and Iraq and has been involved in nine operational tours of duty.

Mr Stevens. who is due to retire in September, said: "I think it's important to show that a local boy like me, who had little or no qualifications, can make a success of himself with a little bit of hard work, effort and commitment.

"I worked my way from the bottom of the pile. I always wanted to improve myself and break through to the next level.

"As I worked my way up I never forgot what it was like to be a soldier of the lowest rank and that served me well.

"If you look after the soldiers they look after you."

The former Studley Green School and Clarendon School pupil added: "I lost my best friend in the Army when I was 21 and I suppose I always tried that bit harder for him.

"Self-motivation propelled me forward and I was recognised right from the start, winning the Gale Cup for the best overall recruit following my basic training.

"There are a lot of young lads around who could do much worse than the Army."

Mr Stevens plans to stay involved with the Army through the Territorial Army and reservist organisations He said: "My management style is best suited to the forces. I don't take any prisoners."