Jack Sadler Award presented to Head of Exeter School's RAF Section

The Head of Exeter School's Royal Air Force section has been awarded the Jack Sadler Award for her outstanding contribution to the Combined Cadet Force contingent (CCF).

Flight Sergeant Meredith Marsh was presented with the brass trophy of an artillery shell case and an engraved medal by Commander Katharine Armstrong (RN) during the biennial CCF inspection on 27 April.

The Jack Sadler Award is made annually in memory of former pupil and trooper Jack Sadler who was tragically killed in Afghanistan.

Jack was a popular and respected senior member of the Army Section who was very much viewed as a soldier's soldier.

Contingent Commander Cdr Geoff Chapman PhD RN said Flight Sergeant Meredith Marsh epitomised the attributes we recognise with this most prestigious award. 

"She always demonstrates the highest standards of commitment, personal qualities and leadership expected of our top cadets," he said.

"She has thrown herself into everything she has done with great enthusiasm showing strong leadership skills and all the time acting as a fine role model to the younger cadets within the section. 

"She has made a significant contribution to the running and success of the RAF Section this year and I am delighted she has made so much of the opportunities on offer to her in the CCF."

Upper Sixth Former Meredith said joining the CCF was one of the best decisions she had ever made.

"The opportunities that the RAF section has provided me with have been amazing, from flying in military aircraft, to night exercises on Woodbury Common,  to summer camps on RAF bases, to competing in the annual ASTC competition," she said.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed the 4 years I have spent in the section and am very sad to leave.

"I have loved having the opportunity to give back to the section this year through my role as the Head of the RAF. It has been rewarding to see new cadets enjoy new experiences as much as I did.

"My time in the CCF has changed me forever. I have grown in confidence, learnt leadership and teamwork skills that will be invaluable in the future and also to push myself and try things I never thought I would enjoy.

"I was honoured to be awarded the Jack Sadler trophy and am proud to have been chosen as the recipient of such a meaningful award."

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