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16
Feb
GALLERY: Apprentices pass out at Harrogate Army Foundation College
A junior soldier at Army Foundation College Harrogate received one of the highest honours possible when he led 742 of his fellow recruits off their graduation parade last week.
Junior Regimental Sergeant Major Charlie Sambell was selected 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 both peers and instructors.
But it was an honour that came as a surprise to Charlie. 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.
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.
He began his Army journey aged 16 years and 10 months at Pirbright and rose through the ranks 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.
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.
Givng the soldiers words of advice before they stepped onto parade, WO1 Townley 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.
Charlie’s advice to his fellow soldiers 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.
All images by Cpl Mike Bellotti of Army Foundation College Harrogate.
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