Year 13 student Ben Davidson will be representing the south-west against five other cadets from around the country to be named this year’s recipient of the Sir John Thomson Memorial Sword Award.
The award is given to the top cadet who demonstrates the highest level of CCF commitment and involvement, and who is also highly regarded within their school.
‘It’s nice that I’ve been able to do enough to be nominated for that and that people think that what I’ve done is valuable and has made a difference,’ said Ben.
‘I’ve been on quite a few courses, I was on a gliding course last Easter and a leadership course last summer.
‘I’ve been part of the Royal Air Squadron Trophy team for three out of the four years I’ve been here and led it last year.’
Ben is also a Lt-Governor’s cadet, joint senior CCF cadet, head of the RAF section and had commanded parades with the CCF.
He has shot competitively twice at Bisley, and has played bagpipes at Horse Guards in London and Edinburgh Castle.
‘I really enjoy the people and the camaraderie that you build with everyone,’ he said.
‘It’s always really good because it’s the same group of people, and people choose to do it because they want to.
‘It’s good to have those people around you to push you when you might be struggling, or push them when they might be struggling, and forming those bonds is probably my favourite part.’
He is aiming for a career in the Royal Navy or Royal Air Force.
Ben will attend the national final which is usually held in September at RAF Cranwell, where the sword is permanently displayed on the main west staircase of College Hall officers’ mess.
The award was established in memory of Air Chief Marshall Sir John Thomson in recognition of his strong support for cadet aviation and the Royal Air Squadron.
He regularly flew young people during Royal Air Squadron Day and routine Air Experience Flights.
The recipient of the award also serves as an ambassador for the RAFAC at a range of high profile events.
Elizabeth College has produced two south-west nominees in consecutive years, which reflects the high standards, commitment and dedication towards CCF. Last year student Braden Morris was chosen as the south-west nominee.
‘I’m very proud of all of our cadets, but it is really great when we identify those who maybe put a lot more in to get more out of it, because you get out what you put it,’ said CCF contingent commander Tim Slann.
‘Ben is one of them, he’s put a lot in and got a lot out and hopefully will be rewarded with the Sir John Thomson memorial sword, or if not, get down to the last two or three.’