I came to the UK from Kashmir as a seven year old. I struggled with basic English and joined the Air Training Corps at 13 years old. I participated in the DOE Award scheme and gained my Gold Award. Having failed my fighter pilot selection test (short sighted) I went on to join the TA Parachute Regiment and then regular army as an officer. I served for 24 years in the Army. I have achieved relative success. It would not have been possible had I not joined the cadets and participated in the DoE award. I own much to the DOE award scheme and strongly recommend it to all. It taught me to be selfless, appreciate community service, value physical fitness, learn new skills, take on challenges, respect others and work as a team. These are among the greatest lessons in life - all at an early age and all through the DOE award.