I began my D of E journey as a school student in the 1970s and then continued during my time in the Venture Scouts. We had amazing expeditions, which I still remember well, and opportunities for volunteering in the community, also developing and learning new skills and taking part in various Physical activities. All of this could be quite challenging!
For the last 12 years I have been a D of E Leader and Assessor and the satisfaction of seeing young people from all walks of life, participate and achieve the Award at all 3 levels is fantastic. The joy of seeing young people complete their expedition in all sorts of weather, with obvious delight that have managed to do it, is something never to be forgotten.
Thank-you to the Duke of Edinburgh for starting this up in 1956, before I was even born!
I was privileged to be at the Service at Westminster Abbey in 2016, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the scheme, and it was such a special occasion and one where the Queen and Prince Philip attended. Prince Edward spoke on that occasion, and talked of the humility of his father, who never took praise very well. However, this is indeed something he needed to be praised for and it is certainly a lasting legacy of which he should have been rightly proud!
Thank-you!