Cadets Honoured for Outstanding Service at Ceremony in Pontypridd
Three exemplary cadets have been awarded for their exceptional dedication and service at a ceremony hosted by the Lord-Lieutenant at the Pontypridd Army Reserve Centre on Thursday, 29 January 2026. Petty Officers Matthew Maguire and Rhys Davies, both associated with the Rhondda Sea Cadet Corps, along with Pilot Officer Max Parry from No 3 Welsh Wing RAF Air Cadets, received accolades recognising their remarkable contributions.
Celebrating Cadet Accomplishments
During the ceremony, the achievements of four Lord-Lieutenant cadets were also highlighted. Leading Cadet Emma from Rhondda Sea Cadet Corps, Cadet Corporal Cayce Ayers of the Bridgend Detachment in the Dyfed and Glamorgan Army Cadet Force, Cadet Warrant Officer Neve Jacobs from the 2077 Squadron of No 1 Welsh Wing RAF, and Cadet Flight Sergeant Claudia-Jean Garton from the 1092 Squadron of No 3 Welsh Wing RAF shared their experiences, recounting memorable moments from their cadet journey over the past year.
Selection and Responsibilities
The four cadets who received recognition were selected for their prestigious roles after recommendations from their group leaders and the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales. Serving as a Lord-Lieutenant cadet involves participating in formal events alongside the Lord-Lieutenant, who represents the King. Their responsibilities encompass involvement in various ceremonies, including Remembrance events and Royal parades, with the tenure lasting until September.
Continuing Traditions
This year’s recipients follow in the footsteps of last year’s distinguished cadets, including former Cadet Warrant Officer Cody Evans. Now a Civilian Instructor with No 3 Welsh Wing RAF and a Duke of Edinburgh Cymru Youth Ambassador, Evans commenced this year’s 70th anniversary of the Duke of Edinburgh awards by addressing the audience about his journey in the programme.
Valuable Contributions to Community and Skills Development
In Wales, nearly 4,500 cadets are actively engaged in enhancing their skills and qualifications through community involvement, charitable work, and practical activities. The cadet curriculum is implemented by approximately 1,850 dedicated adult instructors and civilian volunteers who generously dedicate their time during evenings and weekends.
Organised by the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales, the awards event gathered nearly 80 attendees, celebrating over a century of support for the Armed Forces.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/eight-people-recognised-by-his-majestys-lord-lieutenant-of-mid-glamorgan
