September 30, 2015
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A dedicated 1st Battalion The Highlanders Cadet Force Adult Volunteer has received the British Empire Medal.
Sergeant Major Instructor Jonathan McDonald (48), from Nairn Detachment, was named in The Queen’s Birthday Honours list in June to recognise his voluntary service to the Army Cadet Force.
Jonathan was one of only three members of the ACF to be mentioned in this year’s honours. The medal was presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Nairnshire, Ewan Brodie.
He joined the ACF at Nairn Detachment in the early 80s as a Cadet and, after taking some time out, re-joined as an Adult Instructor for Nairn in 1988, where he has been ever since. SMI McDonald was appointed Detachment Commander in 2000.
Former Nairn Detachment Cadet Callum Lockyear was pleased to see Jonathan’s commitment recognised.
He said: “SMI McDonald played a huge part in my childhood. His self-sacrifice and commitment to the ACF is beyond admirable. I don’t know anybody more deserving of this recognition.”
Jonathan’s dedication to the ACF doesn’t stop at the end of a detachment evening or company weekend. He is always willing to go the extra mile, whether that’s driving a minibus to an event, supervising a DofE expedition or helping at events last minute, he always puts the ACF first.
The presentation at the detachment hall on John Street was attended by several high-ranking staff from the battalion and some of Jonathan’s former Cadets, including Moray Company’s Training Officer Captain Carrie Higgins.
