INTRODUCTION: –Group Captain Keith Lane MBA MA RAF (Retd), Deputy Chief Executive (West) / Chief of Staff and Head of Engagement, South East Reserve Forces’ & Cadets’ Association
We are always saying that the pace of work doesn’t let up but September does truly see the start of our community and employer engagement effort. At the beginning and end of the month we hosted the Silver and Gold Employer Recognition Awards. The silvers opened the season with 33 fantastically supportive employers receiving their awards from the Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Mr Nigel Atkinson – our President – in the fantastic surrounds of the Second Sea Lord’s official residence in Portsmouth, Admiralty House. The evening was made possible with outstanding support from His Majesty’s Naval Base and HMS KING ALFRED and entertainment from The RAF Salon Orchestra and the Hampshire Caledonian Band.
At the end of the month the Army Flying Museum at Middle Wallop played host to the Golds and in the splendid confines of this inspiring space, 16 organisations were recognised as having provided sustained and stellar support to the Defence community. Our SERCA President and Major General Mike Keating, Chief of Staff HQ Allied Rapid Reaction Corps & Regimental Colonel of the Army Air Corps presented the awards. Entertainment was provided by the RAF Regiment Ensemble, His Majesty’s Band of the Royal Marines, Lympstone, and a fly by from Apaches of 7 Squadron Army Air Corps.
We now look forward to the series of 8 Lord-Lieutenant’s award ceremonies across the region when we recognise the great work that has been done by our Reservists, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers and Cadets.