Yeovil trio awarded top honours

Yeovil trio awarded top honours

Three outstanding members of Yeovil Sea Cadets have been recognised for their exceptional service at a special event hosted by the Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, Mohammed Saddiq, at Taunton Racecourse.

Sub Lieutenant Kerri Partington and Mrs Rachael Brannagan were presented with Certificates for Meritorious Service, while Cadet Lance Corporal Simon Simukaitis was appointed as a Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet for 2026/27, a prestigious honour reflecting outstanding leadership and dedication.

Certificates for Meritorious Service recognise Reservists and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers who go above and beyond in their commitment to Defence, whether through military service, cadet volunteering, or both. Their contribution reaches far beyond the Armed Forces, bringing leadership, resilience and teamwork into workplaces and communities across the country.

Meanwhile, the Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadets scheme celebrates young people who show outstanding leadership and dedication within their cadet organisations. Over the coming year, SS will accompany the Lord-Lieutenant at civic and ceremonial occasions, serving as an ambassador for the cadet movement and demonstrating what young people can achieve when given the chance to lead.

A Decade of Dedicated Service

Sub Lieutenant Kerri Partington has given over nine years of service to the Sea Cadet Corps, rising from Petty Officer to Commanding Officer. When her unit faced closure in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, she stepped up to take command, balancing this responsibility alongside her day job as a Head of Department at a local school. Her leadership secured the unit’s future for more than seventy cadets.

Since then, the unit has grown from strength to strength under her guidance. She holds an impressive array of qualifications, including peer educator, Cadet Vocational Qualification leader, Duke of Edinburgh assessor and First Aid Instructor, reflecting her commitment to training both within her unit and across the wider South West Area.

Nine Years of Steady Leadership

Mrs Rachael Brannagan has volunteered with Yeovil Sea Cadets since 2017, serving as Unit Chairperson from her very first year. Known for her fair and encouraging approach, she has brought stability and confidence to volunteers and cadets alike, representing the unit at Somerset and Dorset District Chairmen’s Meetings.

Her tireless fundraising has supported causes including Children in Need and the Ukraine Appeal, and she has never missed the Wincanton Poppy Appeal collection, rain or shine. Whether at Remembrance Day Parades or supporting the Junior Section’s trip to Portsmouth Dockyard, Mrs RB remains a warm, hands-on presence, admired for her kindness and unwavering support for everyone around her.

A Rising Star in the Marine Cadets

Since joining the Marine Section in February 2025, Cadet Lance Corporal Simon Simukaitis has quickly become an invaluable member of the Corps. Described as kind, dependable and always ready to help, he has thrown himself into every opportunity available, gaining his Rowing Competent Crew qualification and attending every Easter and Summer Camp since joining.

His appointment as Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet is a fitting recognition of his enthusiasm and commitment, and a proud moment for Yeovil Sea Cadets.

See all the images from the evening at Wessex Lord Lieutenant’s Awards 2026 – Photo Album – Wessex Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association

To lean more about joining as a Reservist visit – Understanding Reserves: Wessex Reserve Forces’ Insights

The benefits of becoming a Reservist – The benefits of becoming a Reservist – Wessex Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association

To learn more about becoming a Cadet visit – Wessex Reserve Forces & Cadets: Strengthening Future Leaders