07/06/2026
⚓ Congratulations to Our Commanding Officer! ⚓
As Volunteers Week comes to a close, I have an important announcement to recognise one of our own Volunteers.
On behalf of everyone at Fraserburgh Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets, I would like to offer my congratulations to our Commanding Officer, S/Lt (SCC) Paul Bishop RNR, on winning a Cadet Adult Recognition Award (CARA) for Grampian District Sea Cadets. The awards ceremony was held last Thursday in Aberdeen Town Hall. Paul shared the win with another equally deserving volunteer from Sea Cadets - Aberdeen. Congratulations to you too PO (SCC) Debbie Jackson and all the other winners from 1st Battalion The Highlanders Army Cadet Force, 2nd Battalion The Highlanders ACF Page, Highland District Sea Cadets and North Scotland Wing Air Training Corps, RAFAC
What makes this award particularly special is that the recipients are nominated and voted for by the cadets themselves. There can be no greater recognition than being acknowledged by the young people whose lives you help shape and inspire every day.
Paul also gratefully received a gift from the award sponsors, Trident Maritime Systems, in recognition of this achievement.
I have had the absolute pleasure of witnessing the positive transformation of Fraserburgh Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets over the last ten months since Paul took command. It has certainly not been without its challenges, but throughout it all Paul has remained focused, determined, and committed to building a strong team around him with one common goal – our cadets.
Alongside his recent nomination for the prestigious Roddy Casement Sword, recognising him as the Best Commanding Officer in Northern Area, I am delighted to see Paul take home this CARA award. Characteristically, he has dedicated this achievement to the entire team at Fraserburgh Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets.
The citation submitted by the cadet to nominate Paul speaks volumes:
"He is a true inspiration to the unit. His leadership, dedication and positive attitude have created an atmosphere where everyone feels encouraged to succeed. He has a lasting impact on those around him and takes time to understand each cadet as an individual. I would not be where I am today without his support and belief in me. Sir helps me with my drill and marching and makes learning lots of fun. He makes our unit a very happy one."
These words perfectly reflect the impact Paul has made.
Paul, I have thoroughly enjoyed seeing the positive change in morale, the increased focus on the cadet experience, and the fantastic training facilities and opportunities that you and your team continue to create"
Congratulations once again on your CARA award. It is thoroughly deserved, and we are all incredibly proud of you.
I look forward to seeing Fraserburgh Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets thrive as I soon hand over the reigns of the best Unit Management Team in Northern Area.
⚓ Well done, Sir! ⚓
Ruth Verner
Chairperson
Fraserburgh Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets
Highland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association
Lord Provost of Aberdeen
Lord-Lieutenant of Aberdeenshire
Sea Cadets Northern Area
Aberdeen City Council
Aberdeenshire Council
The Fraserburgh Herald
