Living in poverty as a child the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme changed my life. The award scheme gave me skills and abilities I would use in later life. As an adult it provided a platform to employment in the Army and beyond. During my passing out Parade at the Scottish Infantry Depot Glencorse I was presented my Gold Award badge and a few weeks later at Holyrood Palace I was presented my certificate by HRH in person this was one of the proudest days of my life as I had spent 5 years working to achieve it. He spent time talking to all the young people and didn’t rush, he seemed genuinely interested in our DofE stories. Thank you Prince Philip you are an inspiration to thousands of young people. May you rest in peace.