Exeter RAF cadet receives Jack Sadler Award

An Exeter School Senior Royal Air Force cadet has been awarded the Jack Sadler Award for outstanding contribution to the combined cadet force contingent (CCF).

Flight Sergeant and Head of RAF section James Krafft was presented with the brass trophy of an artillery shell case and an engraved medal by Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Commander (RN) Geoff Chapman.

The Jack Sadler award is made annually in memory of former pupil and trooper Jack Sadler who was tragically killed in Afghanistan. He was a popular and respected former Head of the Army section who was very much viewed as a soldier’s soldier. 

This award is made annually in Jack’s name to recognise cadets who have made an outstanding contribution to the CCF.

Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Commander (RN) Geoff Chapman said he was delighted to present the award to James Krafft of the RAF section.

“He has shown consistently outstanding standards of leadership, professionalism and integrity in the true spirit of the award,” he said.

“He has been an excellent Head of section leading the section with a calmness and strength of presence. 

“During this period the RAF Section has seen a big jump in numbers which is a testament to the leadership in the Section; I am sure the OC of the Section, Flt Lt Smith, has been grateful for his support and dedication to the section. James is a most deserving recipient of the award.”

Upper Sixth Former James said he was very pleased and honoured to be presented with this award and hoped that Jack Sadler and others who have laid down their lives will continue to be remembered.

Jack Sadler award winner James Krafft is also recipient of a sought-after Arkwright Engineering Scholarship that identifies him as one of the country’s future leaders in engineering and related areas of design.

Congratulations also to Katie Olding, Amanda Herring and Alex Newman, all Exeter school pupils who are recipients of Army Scholarships.