Three soldiers who have together completed over 45 years of service have been awarded their Long Service and Good Conduct Medal in recognition of their years of loyal and exemplary service.
The ceremony to recognise the Army personnel who have completed 15 years’ military service or more, was held at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre (DMRC), Stanford Hall, Loughborough.
“This award ceremony is a chance to recognise the extraordinary work and dedication shown and a chance to also thank the families of the soldiers, who play an essential role supporting them behind the scenes throughout their careers." Group Captain Christopher Rowley, Commanding Officer DMRC
DMRC is the dedicated rehabilitation centre for the Armed Forces and began treating patients in 2018 following the closure of Headley Court in Surrey. The centre provides in-patient and residential rehabilitation for complex musculoskeletal disorder and injuries.
All those being presented with awards currently work at Stanford Hall in various roles, either helping defence personnel with their rehabilitation or by providing general support to DMRC.
Nurse, Lance Corporal Manzil Kandangwa, was one of them. He started his career 16-years ago as a rifleman in the Brigade of Gurkhas and completed two operational tours in Afghanistan before transferring to the Queen’s Alexander Nursing Corps. He completed a diploma apprenticeship in healthcare and went on to complete an Access to Nursing course. He joined the DMRC in 2019 and now works on the Complex Trauma Ward.
Another recipient was Lance Corporal Rosan Gurung who joined the Army in 2004 and trained to be a chef. He left the Army in 2013, re-joining in 2014 to serve in the Military Provost Guard Service. During his career, he has raised hundreds of pounds for charity and has continued his fund-raising efforts at the DMRC including organising a curry lunch to raise funds for the centre’s Benevolent Fund.
“It gives me great pride to present these medals. The years of commitment, professionalism and enthusiasm shown is inspiring.” Group Captain Christopher Rowley, Commanding Officer DMRC
Celebrating 17 years was Corporal Darren Gore who joined the Army in 2003 and served with the Army Air Corps as an Aviation Communication Specialist. He left the Army in 2008 and re-enlisted with the Military Provost Guard Service (MPGS). He joined DMRC Stanford Hall in 2019.
Leading the ceremony was the Commanding Officer of the DMRC, Group Captain Christopher Rowley. He said: “This award ceremony is a chance to recognise the extraordinary work and dedication shown and a chance to also thank the families of the soldiers, who play an essential role supporting them behind the scenes throughout their careers.
“It gives me great pride to present these medals. The years of commitment, professionalism and enthusiasm shown is inspiring.”