Junior Regimental Sergeant Major Charlie Sambell led 742 soldiers off parade at the Army Foundation College Harrogate Graduation Parade this week. It is one of the highest honours a junior soldier can achieve.
Regimental Sergeant Major Ben Townley leads the soldiers onto the parade square.
The ceremony also marked the retirement of Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) Ben Townley, who concluded a distinguished 25-year Army career.
Charlie was selected from over 740 soldiers in recognition of his leadership, professionalism, and dedication throughout training. The appointment as Junior Regimental Sergeant Major (JRSM) is unique to the Army Foundation College Harrogate and reflects the trust and respect earned from peers and instructors alike.
From trainee to leader
Junior Regimental Sergeant Major Charlie Samson supports the troops on parade.
For Charlie, the appointment to JRSM came as a surprise.
He said: "I never expected to be JRSM. What I aimed for was just to be the best version of myself. I always push myself to do my best, and I'm glad I got as far as I could."
He will now move on to Gibraltar Barracks in Minley to begin combat engineering training with the Royal Engineers.
"I can't wait to be a Sapper," he said.
A fitting farewell for a decorated career
Soldiers on parade at the Army Foundation College Harrogate.
For RSM Townley, the day carried special significance. He began his Army journey aged 16 years and 10-months at Pirbright and remembers marching on and off parade as a new recruit. He rose through the ranks over 25 years to become the Army Foundation College's most senior soldier.
A former Scots Guardsman, he described his career as "a rollercoaster of adventure", starting with Trooping the Colour at 17 and Guards of Honour for American Presidents. He later completed tours of Iraq and Afghanistan, served in Cyprus, and took part in exercises worldwide.
Reflecting on the young soldiers, he said: "Every one of them has tested themselves physically and mentally. They're proud to be here. If you give them the right tools, they'll show you what they can do."
RSM Townley continued: "It was emotional leading them out and hearing the families cheering. Knowing you've played even a small part in the success of the soldiers marching behind you makes you proud. It's a lovely way to end my career."
Lessons in leadership
Regimental Sergeant Major Ben Townley, stands with Junior Regimental Sergeant Major Charlie Samson.
When asked what he had learned about himself during his time as JRSM, Charlie said the role had changed his perspective.
"As the JRSM, I had to take a step back and look out for others — to see if anyone was struggling and how I could help them. It wasn't just about improving myself; it was about improving the whole platoon. I really enjoyed trying to support everyone."
He praised his instructors for guiding him throughout the course.
He said: "My platoon staff have been amazing. They have been a constant helping hand. My PTI (Physical Training Instructor) Staff Robertson is the Bs and Es — he's one of the best members of staff you could ask for."
Words of advice
Speaking before the soldiers stepped onto parade, WO1 Townley reminded them to embrace every opportunity.
He said: "Take every opportunity you can. Volunteer for everything. It goes really quickly. It's not just a job — it's a lifestyle. Stop and enjoy it."
On advice for fellow soldiers, Charlie’s advice was simple: "Grit it out. Keep going — you'll regret leaving. Keep going and you'll make yourself proud."
The parade marked the end of basic training for the 16 and 17-year-olds. Over several months, they completed military training, fitness, and education tasks, culminating in a rigorous two-week battle camp and tactical exercise. The newly qualified soldiers will now join their respective units and complete trade training in their chosen field.