Col Paul Smilie, Commandant Greater Manchester ACF
To everyone connected with Greater Manchester ACF, our incredible cadets and their families, our inspirational adult volunteers, our brilliant professional support staff, and all our wonderful extended family and supporters, I wish you a very Merry Christmas.
Greater Manchester ACF has, once again, been an inspiring place to be in 2023. I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the challenges and triumphs we have faced together throughout this year.
I am particularly proud of the outstanding achievements we've accomplished together. From the taking part in the very first visit to Greater Manchester by His Majesty The King in January, to the successful execution of Easter and Annual Camps to memorable visits by all our local Mayor’s, and the High Sherriff. All the awards that our cadets and adults have achieved this year, from the magnificent and well deserved Royal Humane Society award to Cadet Jones to the 17 awards of Lord Lieutenant’s Certificates at this year’s ceremony at Gorton Monastery. Not forgetting all the individual awards, promotions and recognition received this year by many many fantastic and worthy recipients.
Looking ahead, we are experiencing changes at the senior leadership level, with myself having just taken over from Col Catherine, and you will hear more about my vision for the County in January when I release my Commandant’s Directive for 2024, We also welcome in a new County RSMI in January, RSMI Dawson and wish him well in his new appointment. Company Sergeant Major’s will also have changes from January which will affect most Companies. To the outgoing post holders, I thank you for your selfless commitment in the time in your appointment and wish you well in your new roles. Our focus on developing engagement, prioritising our people, and fostering well-being will remain steadfast in 2024.
As we navigate an uncertain future, marked by continued financial and resource pressures, the cornerstone of our success in 2024 will undoubtedly be our leadership and dedication to our people. Whilst we will undoubtedly, face challenges in 2024 we can look forward to some great times as well. January sees two of our number visiting India on an exchange trip. In February we are taking 30 of our senior cadets to Gibraltar in an exchange which will see us once again meeting our friends in the Gibraltar Army Cadet Force. We have people off on shooting ventures to Canada. And at home we can once again look forward to an exciting and rewarding training program with both Easter and Annual Camps to look forwards to.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you and your families, for your unwavering support, which has enabled our organisation to not just survive but thrive.
Wishing you and your loved ones a Joyous Christmas and a New Year filled with hope, peace, and success.
#Christmas #NewYear2024 #GmanACFforceforgood #goingfurther #inspiretoachieve #Christmas2023
