Kent Air Cadet receives his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

On 23rd October, Kent Wing cadet Flight Sergeant Stephen Essex of  99 (Folkestone) Sqn was presented his God DoFE award at St James’s Palace.

FS Essex was awarded Gold following arduous expeditions in the Brecon Beacons and the Lake District as well and conducting his residential project in Kenya. During his time in Kenya he part led an expedition to climb to nearly 5000 m up Mount Kenya followed by a period working with Masai Mara tribes people in local schools.

Having been an Air Cadet since 2008, Stephen has participated my many activities within the Corps, with many contributing to the DofE award.

FS Essex was presented with the award with Prince Philip in attendance who came to speak to him afterwards and was particularly interested in the residential phase in Kenya.

Commenting on the award, FS said, ” Despite being arduous at times, the expeditions and residential project phases of my Gold DofE were the most rewarding.  Since completing, the value of the award can’t be stated enough. As well as being an Air Cadet, having a DofE Gold award has opened many doors career wise and it is certainly Iooked on very favourably by prospective employers.  I would encourage all cadets to make use of the opportunities presented by the Air Cadets to work towards this highly coveted award”.