Army cadet collects historic Tankard award

Selected from the many hundreds of cadets in the region, Cadet Sergeant Naomi Younger, 17, from Jennyfield, was among only two other cadets to be honoured by the Merchant Adventurers and awarded a specially engraved Tankard at a private ceremony in The Merchant Adventurers’ historic 655 year-old hall in Fossgate on Thursday 11 January.

Marking the 17th consecutive year of the Tankard Awards, which was originally inaugurated in the 1980’s to honour the sailors of HMS York, the Tankard Awards were expanded many years ago to honour all three services and cadet forces.

Naomi was nominated for the award by her commanding officer for her ‘unwavering commitment, infectious positive outlook and the embodiment of the ACF spirit and motto.’

On receiving the Tankard award, Naomi, who attends Rossett School, said: “I feel very proud to have been given this award. I love the cadets and try to get involved in as many activities as I can, so it’s wonderful to also be recognised for that time and commitment I put in.”

Dr Richard Shephard MBE DL, the Governor of the Company of Merchant Adventurers said: “It’s a great privilege to recognise Naomi, and all the impressive young people for their outstanding commitment and efforts to the cadet forces.

“Naomi has demonstrated a service above and beyond what is expected of her and is a very deserving recipient of the Tankard.

“We look forward to continuing our close links with the cadet movement.”