Sue Little
In 1965 while at school I commenced my Bronze award completing in 1966.
I then joined the WRNS in 1967 and after basic and specialist training, the upper age limit for the Gold Award having extended to 21, I decided to pursue both the Silver and Gold level. It was while I was serving in Malta that I qualified for the Gold Award in the month of my 21st. Birthday in 1971.
I was lucky to be invited to Buckingham palace and awarded my Gold Brooch by HRH TheDuke of Edinburgh, during which he famously made a joke about “their Lordships granting me leave from Malta in order to attend the presentation”.
Some 20 plus years I met him again and although he had handed over to his son Prince Edward he was still so very enthusiastic about the award and updated me on the pursuits of the then modern day participants.
The Duke’s death has made me reflect on the award and latterly I have realised that my attainment, particularly with the Gold Award has helped me shape and possibly aided my career not only in the Navy but also in later life. Indeed, I kept the DofE Award on my C.V until recent retirement.
So, I would like to Thank his Highness in devising the award, which allowed me to challenge myself in ways other than academic.
On the eve of your funeral “ I salute you Sir”.
I then joined the WRNS in 1967 and after basic and specialist training, the upper age limit for the Gold Award having extended to 21, I decided to pursue both the Silver and Gold level. It was while I was serving in Malta that I qualified for the Gold Award in the month of my 21st. Birthday in 1971.
I was lucky to be invited to Buckingham palace and awarded my Gold Brooch by HRH TheDuke of Edinburgh, during which he famously made a joke about “their Lordships granting me leave from Malta in order to attend the presentation”.
Some 20 plus years I met him again and although he had handed over to his son Prince Edward he was still so very enthusiastic about the award and updated me on the pursuits of the then modern day participants.
The Duke’s death has made me reflect on the award and latterly I have realised that my attainment, particularly with the Gold Award has helped me shape and possibly aided my career not only in the Navy but also in later life. Indeed, I kept the DofE Award on my C.V until recent retirement.
So, I would like to Thank his Highness in devising the award, which allowed me to challenge myself in ways other than academic.
On the eve of your funeral “ I salute you Sir”.
