Teenager recognised for 'commendable' work as a cadet

Regimental Serjeant Major Martin joined the Army Cadet Force in October 2010 and since then has rapidly progressed through the ranks achieving Master Cadet in March last year – the highest qualification a cadet can achieve.

He received his first stripe in 2012 adding his second by the end of the year and since then he has also served as one of the Counties Lord Lieutenants Cadets and has represented Wiltshire at various military competitions and events.

The John of Gaunt student, who lives with his parents in Trowbridge, said: “It was really nice to receive the award and it should be a good acknowledgement to the youth of Trowbridge to show what they can also achieve.

“It was a really enjoyable night but was a complete surprise to find out I had been nominated let alone win.”

RSM Martin first got involved in the cadets as a way of learning more about the army and since then has taken part in Ten Tors, the Arnhem Marches and many civic events in the town.

“I was really interested in joining the army when I grow up and I thought joining as a cadet would be a good stepping stone to learn more as well as gain life skills in general that can be applied in both civilian and military life,” he added.

“Since joining, it has been more than I could have ever expected and I’ve had a few highlights such as meeting royalty. When I met Prince Philip I had a long chat with him about Ten Tors and the Duke of Edinburgh award.

“When I joined, I set myself the target of achieving the highest rank possible and every time I achieved something, I set myself another target so I was pushing myself.”

The Town Council presented him with the award last Tuesday and said that RSM Martin serves as an example of what can be achieved in the Cadet Forces and his commitment to passing on his skills and enthusiasm for the ACF to the next generation is highly-commendable.