Former CCF staff receive awards

Robert Russel, who retired from Merchiston's Biology department some years ago, and Archie Hambling, also now retired, have each received Commendations of Meritorious Service to Cadets from the Reserve Forces and Cadet Association. RFCA award this on behalf of the Queen and the Government in recognition to service in uniform.

Dr Russel is pictured here receiving the award from the Lord Provost of Edinburgh.

The citation read as follows:

Lt Col Russel joined Merchiston Castle School CCF in 1975 on a ‘Headmaster Commission’ converting to List B commission after attending courses at Frimley Park. In his early days he was primarily involved with Camp craft and Adventure Training. Over the years with attendance at numerous Field days and CCF Summer Camps he broadened his horizons increasing his interest in the military side of the CCF. Having completed a Range Conducting Officers course he took an interest in the shooting side of the contingent and was a regular visitor to Bisley for cadet competition shoots. He has also been involved in many CCF expeditions to Canada, USA, India and Kenya, taking on the roll of Expedition Leader on at least 2 expeditionss.

In 2006 Lt Col Russel retired as a teacher; however, as the CCF were looking for a Contingent Commander, he agreed to stay on and do an extra 2 years retiring his commission in Sep 08. During his time as Contingent Commander he played a major role in the recruiting of the new Contingent Commander and overseen the handover of authority during his last year.

Lt Col Russel although retired still plays a part in the CCF, volunteering his services as recently as March 09 as an instructor on an Adventurous Training Package. His contribution to the CCF at Merchiston is to be applauded and no doubt his personal contribution has led to the major success of the Cadet movement at this school.

SSI Hambling joined Merchiston Castle School in 1986 after 22 years service with the Royal Signals. At this time the CCF was in some turmoil with the previous SSI resigning after a short spell at the helm. His first task was to put the movement on an even keel, in training and stores management. He also had the unenviable task of managing the school transport fleet. In his 21 years he has been heavily involved in the planning, organization and participation of major overseas expeditions to Canada, USA, India and Kenya.

During his service he acquired a passion for coaching competition shooting both military and civilian. He has been a regular attendee at Bisley, managing and overseeing the CCF team. This year will see his last visit to Bisley as a volunteer, after his retirement as SSI in 2007.

SSI Hambling made a major contribution in the recruiting and training of his successor, and remained on staff as a part time adult instructor in shooting. SSI Hambling retired at the end of academic year 08/09.