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25 اکتوبر 2026
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A Journey from Timid Recruit to County's Senior Cadet Draws to a Close

A promotion, presentations and plenty of stories marked the final parade evening of Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major Alexia Ennis as she brought her Army Cadet Force cadet career to a close.

The evening provided an opportunity to reflect on a journey that began during the Covid pandemic and saw Cdt RSM Ennis progress from a hesitant new recruit to the most senior cadet appointment in Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland Army Cadet Force. One of the final duties of Alexia’s cadet career saw her promote a fellow cadet to the rank of Lance Corporal, a fitting moment for somebody who has spent much of her time encouraging and developing younger cadets to reach their potential.
Later in the evening, she was presented with a commemorative gift by WO1 (RSM) Anna Ingle ACF in recognition of her service, leadership and commitment to the organisation. Reflecting on how her Army Cadet Force journey began, Alexia explained:

“There wasn’t a lot going on during Covid, and my mum thought it looked like something I’d enjoy. We looked into it and decided to give it a go.”

It was a decision that would open the door to opportunities she never expected.
Over the following years, Alexia embraced every challenge available to her, progressing through the syllabus to achieve the prestigious Master Cadet qualification, the highest level of cadet training. She also represented the County at numerous events and courses before ultimately being appointed as County Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major, the most senior appointment available to a cadet. Looking back, Alexia admits many of those achievements would have seemed impossible when she first joined.

“If you’d said when I joined that I’d get to Master Cadet, I wouldn’t have believed you.”

Her development was evident to the adult volunteers who watched her grow throughout her time as a cadet.

Staff Sergeant Sarah Pantling ACF, Alexia’s Detachment Commander, recalled a young person who lacked confidence and often doubted her own abilities.

“She was very quiet and very timid. If you asked her to do something, she would panic and ask a thousand and one questions. She had absolutely no confidence in herself or her ability.”

Over time, however, that uncertainty transformed into confidence and leadership.

“She’s still a perfectionist,” said SSgt Pantling. “She’s just far more confident. She doesn’t ask half as many questions and she’s developed into somebody who takes accountability and responsibility.”

As Cadet RSM, Ennis became a familiar figure across the county, helping to lead major events, mentor younger cadets and represent their views at the highest level. WO1 Ingle first recognised her potential during the selection process for a senior cadet appointment and believes one of her greatest strengths was never losing sight of what it was like to be a junior cadet.

“She never forgot what it’s like to be a young cadet. She has that empathy and patience, but also the ability to see the bigger picture and lead from the front.”

Among the many highlights of her cadet career, she cites commanding large-scale county parades as some of her proudest moments.

“You’re stood in front of all those cadets and they’re listening to your command. That’s something I’ll always be proud of.”

While her achievements were celebrated throughout the evening, staff and fellow cadets were equally quick to remember the personality behind the rank. Alongside her commitment and determination, she became known for a fiercely competitive streak and a willingness to throw herself fully into every challenge and opportunity that came her way. Stories shared during the evening prompted plenty of laughter, particularly when friendly disputes emerged over the finer details of past events. Moments such as these reflected the relationships she had built across the county and the respect she earned from both cadets and adult volunteers alike.

SAY YES TO EVERY OPPORTUNITY

As Alexia prepares for university and a future career in medicine, she hopes other cadets will make the most of the opportunities available to them.

“Say yes to every opportunity. If I hadn’t done that, I wouldn’t have gone on exchanges, expeditions or leadership courses. Just take every opportunity and enjoy it, because you’ll miss it when it’s gone.”

For WO1 Ingle, that attitude is central to the legacy she leaves behind.

She has shown what the cadet experience can be from start to finish. She's earned the respect of cadets and adults alike, and she's helped create opportunities and traditions that will continue long after she leaves.

Although her time as a cadet has come to an end, the impact of Alexia’s leadership, example and encouragement will continue to be felt across Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland Army Cadet Force for years to come.

Want to learn what it takes to make it to the top?

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