A Salford Sea Cadets Petty Officer has shared his inspiring words after receiving a Cadet Forces medal from The Princess Royal during a Sea Cadet Regatta.
The National Sailing and windsurfing Regatta took place in Southport on September 26 and the award was given to Petty Officer, Stephen Kay of Salford Sea Cadets.
The medal recognises more than a decade of his dedicated volunteer service supporting young people through Sea Cadets.
The former Royal Navy engineer, Steve, joined Sea Cadets as a volunteer in 2015 after struggling with PTSD following his military career. He credits Sea Cadets with helping him rebuild confidence, find purpose and reconnect with a sense of belonging through supporting young people.
Since joining Sea Cadets, he has helped hundreds of young people develop maritime skills through sailing, powerboating, rowing and offshore adventures, while supporting local, regional and national boating events. His dedication and commitment have made a lasting impact on generations of cadets.
The Princess Royal presented Steve with the medal in recognition of his commitment to helping young people develop confidence, resilience and practical skills.
Steve said: “One of the most rewarding parts of volunteering is watching young people discover what they’re capable of.
“You see cadets arrive lacking confidence and then grow through taking on challenges, learning new skills and working as part of a team. Seeing those transformations is what keeps me coming back.
“Sea Cadets gave me purpose when I needed it most. Being able to give something back and help young people achieve their potential means a great deal to me.”
Steve felt starstruck when as he was handed the medal from The Princess Royal.
“I was obviously proud, I never really expected to get it from HRH. We normally get it from our district officers.”
The unit which Steve volunteers at is based in Worsley on the Bridgewater Canal. His grandson has recently moved up to a senior status in the Sea Cadets and Steve fulfils his Grandfather duties by driving them both to training.
“I’ll get the phone call about five o’clock saying ‘are we going tonight’? That keeps me going because if I don’t take him he can’t go”, he added.
