Dorset Army Cadet award in memory of Phil Allen (From Dorset Echo)

Dorset Army Cadet award in memory of Phil Allen

10:37am Friday 29th January 2010 in News By James Tourgout

PROUD Karen Charman-Allen presented an award in memory of her soldier son after his death in Afghanistan.

She handed over the Phil Allen Cup at the Dorset Army Cadet Force’s (ACF) annual presentation evening at the TA Centre in Dorchester.

Mrs Charman-Allen presented the trophy to Rebecca Leese for being the best Cadet recruit in the Dorchester detachment.

She said: “It was an absolute pleasure but also quite emotional as well.

“It was certainly an honour. I said ‘well done’ to Rebecca and that she should be very proud.”

She added: “I remember being sat among other parents some years ago when Phil got the award for best Cadet, although the award was a certificate then.”

The ACF introduced the cup for the best Cadet after Phil’s death in Afghanistan late last year.

Phil was a former pupil at Penwithen School in Dorchester and a former Dorchester Army Cadet.

Sergeant Antony Goodman, who is the Det Commander Dorchester, said: “Cadet Leese was chosen for the award for her amazing dedication.

“She is quick to learn, pleasant and stood out from the rest.”

The presentation evening was a celebration of the success of the Cadets and adult staff over the past year. Brenda Hale presented the Mark Hale Cup in memory of her husband, Bournemouth-born Captain Mark Hale.

She handed the trophy over to Heidi Silcox, of Beaminster, for being the best Cadet in Dorset.

Other awards went to Major Steve Frost in recognition of his work as commander of the A Company covering Portland, Weymouth, Beaminster, Bridport and Dorchester.

Sergeant Major Gary Wakeham, of Weymouth, received an award for his dedication to the Cadets.

Other honours went to Corporal Adrian Scadding, of Bridport, Colour Sergeant Dan Hart, of Portland, Corporal Rebel Eratt-Camp, of Weymouth, Sergeant Major Elliot Lineham-Cross, of Weymouth, and Regimental Sergeant Major Heidi Silcox.

Sergeant Major Lineham-Cross, who was promoted to Company Sergeant Major, received a Diploma in Public Services and a Master Cadet Certificate.

Colour Sergeant Hart received a Diploma in Public Service and was promoted to Band Sergeant Major, and Corporal Erratt-Camp received a 3 Star Certificate.

Lieutenant Annette Geyser received an award for helping at the scene of a serious car crash while on the way to a first aid competition with the Cadets.

Dorset ACF’s Adjutant General, Lieutenant General Mark Mans, was guest of honour and presented the awards.

Colonel Edwards, who is Commandant of Dorset ACF, said: “Dorset ACF was extremely honoured that the Adjutant General took time out of his hectic schedule to present the awards and for his appreciation and recognition of what the ACF achieves.

“The evening highlighted the dedication of adults and Cadets.

“The successes were due to hard work over a sustained period and I would like to pay tribute to my adults for the way that they have helped and encouraged our Cadets to reach such a high standard. It was lovely to see so many families and friends supporting the Cadets.

“I felt particularly privileged that Brenda Hale and Karen Charman-Allen were able to be with us to present cups in memory of Captain Mark Hale and Rifleman Phil Allen respectively and in the presence of the Rifles’ family of Cadets, TA and Regimental Association members.

“It was a memorable evening for all concerned and got 2010 and the 150th anniversary of the Cadet movement off to a flying start in Dorset.”

Anyone interested in joining the Cadets can call 01305 263954 or visit www.dorsetacf.co.uk