As an Air Cadet in 936 Squadron Air Training Corps I was awarded the Silver standard of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award in November 1961. Followed by the Gold in November 1962. To my great surprise the award was to be presented by the Duke himself at Buckingham Palace. The venue was changed from the garden to inside the Royal Stables because of rain. I remember there being six or seven other boys and our parents present. The Duke spoke to all the in turn asking what we had done for the award and presenting us with the Gold Certificates. He then spoke and joked with the parents. A lasting impression was made and that changed my life. Much local publicity was given to my award which I was told was the first in Hertfordshire.

Later as an officer ATC, I had the opportunity to promote the scheme as the newly appointed Wing Adventure Training Officer.

Then in June 1974 I had the honour and privilege to show the Duke during a two day visit to Hertfordshire what we had achieved with the scheme. He seemed pleased and surprised that we had over 400 cadets taking part in the Wing.

In October 1976 I was invited to attend a special Gold presentation At the Palace to mark the 20th anniversary of the scheme followed by a Tea Party in Pall Mall with the Duke and Lord Hunt who had played a leading pert in establishing the scheme.

I continued to promote the scheme within the Corps as the Officer Commanding Hertfordshire Wing ATC as well as supporting local schools.

I am now very proud that both my granddaughter and grandson have recently gained their Gold Awards. Participating in the award scheme and meeting the Duke proved a major and lasting influence in my life. I have so many special memories and made some lasting friends through the D of E Award scheme. The scheme will endure and continue to offer young people the same challenges and sense of achievement that I had in my youth, all thanks to a very special man.