STRATEGIC MEMBERS NEWS

Seventeen of Wales’ top forcesfriendly employers recognised with a prestigious award

Seventeen organisations from across Wales have been presented with the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for 2025.

Representatives from the receiving organisations were awarded at a special event in July held at the Pierhead Building in Cardiff Bay, where they were also honoured guests at the 21 Gun Royal Salute to celebrate the birthday of Her Majesty the Queen.

Guests were welcomed by host Sian Lloyd, with the opening address given by Air Officer Wales, Air Commodore Rob Woods OBE. The close was given by Brigadier Russ Wardle OBE DL, chair of the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales.

The awards were presented jointly by Brigadier Mark Davis CBE, Commander of 160th (Welsh) Brigade, Head of the Army in Wales, Commodore Tris Kirkwood OBE ADC, Naval Regional Commander Wales, Western England and Channel Islands and Air Commodore Rob Woods OBE.

Major General Jamie Gordon, Chief Executive of the Council of Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Associations, said: “These Silver Award winners are trusted allies of Defence. They don’t just talk about support — they show it, every day, through flexible policies, visible advocacy, and long-term commitment to those who serve. This is about more than good intentions; it’s about practical, sustained support that strengthens our national resilience. It is very pleasing that they have been recognised for all that they do our Reservists, Veterans and Cadets.”