Soldier wins top award

Rifleman Joshua Hartley, 22, won the Soldier’s Soldier award after finishing his Combat Infantryman training at Catterick.

His platoon commander, Lieutenant Mark Willis, said: “This is awarded by the Riflemen themselves, they vote for who they think is the best soldier in the platoon, so this makes it a real pat on the back from his fellow recruits. He has put others’ needs ahead of his own on a very long, arduous course. This is a well deserved award.”

Rifleman Hartley said:”I had been doing dead-end jobs and I really wanted something that would lead to a career. I’ve always thought the army could be a worthwhile career for me and I would have joined earlier, but my personal circumstances weren’t right at the time.

“Getting to the end of the course at Catterick is an achievement itself, so I’m chuffed to also win an award. I’m just looking forward to seeing Amy, my fiancée, and our daughter, Taylor-Grace.”

After completing two weeks’ driver training Rifleman Hartley will take some well earned leave. He will then join his new unit the 2nd Battalion The Rifles.