Jack Sadler Award for Exeter School sixth former

An Exeter School Sixth Former has been awarded the Jack Sadler Award for his outstanding contribution to the Combined Cadet Force contingent (CCF).

Chief Petty Officer James Harris was presented with the brass trophy of an artillery shell case and an engraved medal by Exeter School alumnus and Governor, Brigadier Steve Hodder of Wessex RFCA (1969-1976), on 3 May during a CCF awards ceremony.

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 Sqn Ldr Simon Smale said there were several highly deserving candidates for the Jack Sadler Award this year but James was selected because of his positive attitude, commitment and enthusiasm to CCF.

"James has been reliable and organised with planning tasks and instruction has always been delivered to a high standard," he said.

"James has attended summer camps and other trips with the RN Section and has helped on the afloat training as a sailing instructor. He shows the dedication and qualities that are highly regarded in a junior officer."

James said during his four-year service to the Combined Cadet Force, he had thoroughly enjoyed the annual Royal Navy summer camp at Roadford Reservoir, being part of the Honour Guard for the school's Founders Day and working as a team on the HMS Raleigh's sinking ship simulator.

"What I will take away is my development as a sailing instructor for the Royal Navy Section through teaching cadets the more advance Level 3 and seamanship skills and race training.

"Winning the Jack Sadler Award has shown me how far I have come with my sailing skills and inspired me to continue my training to become a fully qualified instructor."