I attained bronze, silver and Gold finally receiving my Gold in a ceremony at Buckingham Palace 1972, from the hands of the Duke himself. I was a serving Police cadet in the Met Police and it was through the Police that I completed all the categories, including mountaineering, community service etc.
I met the Duke on two occasions through the D of E Award, as an 18 yr old I attended a dedicated event at Westminster promoting participants in the scheme and enjoyed casual drinks chatting with Prince Philip.
He was a very casual person and easy to chat to, I was amazed to see his shirt sleeves were frayed, his collar twisted and his dark tie stained!!
My 5 years experience in participating in the award scheme prepared me well in life, I left the Police in 74 and established businesses in Cape Town, South Africa and Greece, all of which I am currently the CEO and continue to promote the benefits of involvement of our youth in this prestigious award scheme.
Proud to have been associated with the D of E and to have met such a committed gentleman.