ARMY cadets from Holsworthy were joined by guests including former senior cadets members of the armed forces, Devon ACF County HQ staff and Holsworthy British Legion to celebrate both team and individual achievements made throughout 2024.

The event took place at Holsworthy Golf Club and saw a multitude of presentations.

Major Joe Martin presented Cadet Malih Ussy with ‘Best Recruit’ trophy and Cadet Jazmine Willson with ‘Best Cadet’ trophy. Cadet Ruben Willis received ‘Best Turn Out’ trophy.

Detachment Commander Lt Jim Harvey presented Cpl Aaron Squirrell with both the Holsworthy Town Council sponsored ‘Best NCO’ shield and the ‘Community Cadet’ cup sponsored by former county councillor Barry Parsons.

Lt Harvey presented a new trophy which he has sponsored to mark ten years as Detachment Commander at Holsworthy. The “Army Cadet Values” trophy recognises a cadet who has demonstrated “courage, discipline, respect for others, integrity loyalty and selfless commitment”. The first recipient is LCpl Tavia Thompson.

Lt Harvey also promoted Cadet Ellie Goodwin to LCpl.

There were three Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Awards presented by detachment second in command 2Lt Summer Ashbury to LCpls Poppy Freeburn Paige Chidley and Ellie Goodwin.

Former Cadet Serjeant Thane Sargent received his BTec Diploma and there were a host of runner up prizes and certificates.

Reflecting on 2024 Lt Harvey added: “It’s been another progressive year for the detachment and the cadets have again made the adult team proud with their efforts which included raising nearly £1,000 for local good causes. We have two new adult instructors in training and look forward to recruiting new cadets in February.”

If anyone is interested in joining the ACF search ‘Devon Army Cadet Force’ follow the ‘Join as a cadet’ link and fill in the details. Lt Harvey will then make contact with starting dates and details.