SSCE Cymru would like to extend heartfelt congratulations to all the incredible Service children and young people who were nominated for this year’s Celebrating Forces Families Awards, held on Friday, 25th April 2025.
This year, the awards team collaborated with Jacob Mason, whose father serves in the Submarine Service, to launch the Jacob’s Medal. Every Service child or young person nominated for the Young People’s Award will receive a Jacobs Medal in recognition of their personal achievements. We're proud to share that two of these medals were awarded to Service children living in Wales.
Congratulations to Luke Woodhouse and Rylee Greest!
Luke, who lives with a chronic, life-changing illness, received his Jacob’s Medal in recognition of the remarkable way he manages his condition while also supporting others in similar situations. At Pencoed Comprehensive School, Luke is part of a club created to support young people connected to the Armed Forces. He also enjoys engaging with veterans in his local community. Luke especially loves that the medal ribbon is purple—a colour symbolising support for both Service children and those affected by Crohn’s and Colitis.
Rylee's father serves in the Army, and frequent moves have been a part of his life. Now living in Powys and attending school in Brecon with his two brothers, Leo and Oliver, Rylee was nominated by a family friend impressed by how he copes with constant change—despite finding it very difficult. He is currently on the waiting list for an Additional Learning Needs (ALN) assessment.
Rylee’s mum, Sian, shared:
“My health is not the best, and Rylee always tries to be kind and caring. He helps me around the house and reads with his younger brother. Like so many military children, he really misses his dad when he has to go away for work. Every move is unsettling for him, but he continues to try his best. We are all so proud of him—and, of course, his brothers too.”
Luke and Rylee are two shining examples of the resilience and strength of Service children, each with unique challenges and experiences. Their stories are a powerful reminder of why it’s so important to celebrate the Month of the Military Child.
Bravo, Luke and Rylee!
"Gynted ag ydych yn dod i arfer i dŷ, rydych yn cael eich symud – rwyf wedi bod mewn pedair ysgol ac wedi symud chwech gwaith."
Aiden
"Roeddwn i’n byw yn Nepal, yna aethom i Brunei, yna Malaysia."
Ashim
"Drwy fy llygaid i mae gennych gannoedd o ffrindiau mewn llefydd gwahanol."
Chloe
"Dwi di arfer symud rŵan a chymysgu gyda’r plant... Dwi di neud o gymaint o weithiau mae’n rhywbeth arferol rŵan."
Chloe
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