National Cadets Week: Cambridgeshire Cadet Commended For First Aid Actions
First aid is an incredibly important part of the cadet syllabus. The Army Cadet Force nationally equips tens of thousands of young people with potentially life saving first aid skills every year, but also teaches the leadership, courage and self-discipline needed to ensure our cadets can use their skills practically when needed the most. In June of this year, fourteen year old Cadet Lance Corporal Joey Barrett from Chesterton Detachment had his newfound skills put to the test – with impressive results.
Joeys mum Suzanna has a complex medical history, including brain tumors and having suffered a traumatic head injury. One day in late June, Joey happened to be off school due to being unwell himself, and Suzanna had a blackout and collapsed in the garden, sustaining multiple injuries to her knee, elbow and shoulder. She also landed on a metal object, which left her with three impact cuts, extensive bruising and swelling.
(Above) Joey is presented with his Praisworthy Action Certificate by the Commandant, August 2026.
Joey said: “at first I was really worried, but then I thought ‘I know what I’m doing, and I know what I need to do, and the first thing I had to do was remain completely calm.’
Despite this being an incredibly frightening situation involving his own mother, Joey did remain calm. Suzanna was unconscious, but Joey helped her come round. She was confused, in shock and unable to think clearly.
Suzanna said: “He immediately assessed me, helped me regain consciousness, got me safely inside and began treating my injuries one by one. He prioritised my care, kept talking to me to ensure I stayed conscious and alert, monitored my blood pressure and heart rate, recorded my observations and carefully managed the situation throughout.”
Joey reassured her, cleaned and dressed her wounds, and in a short time she was speaking coherently. Suzanna said: “Watching him was honestly like watching a fully qualified paramedic at work. His confidence, professionalism and calm approach amazed me. At no point did he panic. He simply put all of his training into practice and cared for me with compassion and maturity well beyond his years.”
“Had Joey not been off school that day, I would have been alone for several hours after collapsing. I dread to think what the outcome might have been. His first aid knowledge and decisive actions prevented what could easily have become a far more serious emergency requiring a 999 ambulance. I spoke to my GP, who commented on how incredibly fortunate I had been and how remarkable Joey’s response was. He agreed that Joey had dealt with the situation exceptionally well.”
(Above) Joey receives his certificate from the East of England Ambulance Service. (Photo East of England Ambulance Service)
Joey’s actions quickly bought him recognition, firstly from the Army Cadet Charitable Trust, who awarded him a Praiseworthy Action Certificate, which was presented by Cambs Commandant Colonel Deacon in August. Then, in September, came a commendation from the East of England Ambulance Service. Their Chief Executive, Neil Moloney said: “We know how important it is for people to have the skills and confidence to help in an emergency. Joey’s actions are an excellent example of why first aid training is so valuable. He showed great calmness, maturity and skill during a difficult situation.”
The commendation was presented during a visit to the Ambulance Station, an experience which Joey described as “really cool to see all their kit. I learnt quite a bit.”
Joey’s ambition is to continue progressing through the ranks within the Army Cadet Force and, ultimately, to become a British Army Medic. He now carries a first aid kit with him wherever he goes, so that he is ready to help again in an accident or emergency.
(Above) Joey with Remembrance poppies, 2025.
Chesterton Detachment Commander 2Lt Greg Jones said: “Joey has been with the detachment over 2 years now and has grown into a very dependable and respected young man, he has shown great aptitude in many aspects of the syllabus, but has particularly shone with his first aid training, and we are all very proud of him. Joey is working hard now to becoming a full Corporal in the detachment.”
Suzanna said: “I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to 2Lt Greg Jones and everyone at Chesterton Detachment, as well as the dedicated cadet volunteers and instructors at the Waterbeach Cadet Training Centre who give up their own time to provide additional training during weekend camps and exercises. The values, discipline and life-saving skills that you all teach your cadets make a genuine difference, and those skills protected my life. Every member of staff and every volunteer should know that the time and effort they invest in young people truly changes lives.”
Joey’s mother, his Detachment Commander and the whole of Cambridgeshire Army Cadet Force, are immensely proud of him. His actions truly embody the ACF Values and Standards of Respect for others, Selfless Commitment, Courage and Discipline
Joey said: “All young people should be able to at least perform the basics of first aid whilst waiting for an ambulance, as it increases the chances of survival. Its really important young people learn first aid – it helps save lives.”
Text by Suzanna Ruggieri and Lt Doug Stuart. Thank you to East of England Ambulance Service.