Recognition of 'exceptional commitment' of town's soldier

Lance Corporal Damian Thornton (34) serves with Army Reserve unit 6 Military Intelligence Battalion based in Manchester. He was awarded Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant’s Commendation in recognition of his exceptional commitment to the Army Reserve. The presentation was made by Mr Warren Smith, Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for Greater Manchester, during a ceremony held at Gorton Monastery.Damian, a Probation Officer in his civilian job, joined the Army Reserve in 2015 having previously served in the Regular Army. He has worked as a recruiter and Phase 1 Instructor for 18 months, during which time he has travelled to Cyprus with the unit. The soldier was commended for his commitment and support to the unit’s recruiting efforts, which have seen the Battalion increase its numbers by a third in just one year, largely due to Damian’s efforts.Damian said: “I feel extremely proud to have been considered for this commendation. I love being part of the Battalion and the Army Reserve. The award means so much as I feel as though I’m just doing something I really enjoy. To be recognised in this way is amazing.”Colonel Mark Underhill, Chief Executive of the North West Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association which runs the awards, said: “The Lord-Lieutenant’s Awards give us an opportunity to recognise the selfless commitment and dedication of the men and women who serve in our nation’s Reserve Forces. Lance Corporal Thornton has been instrumental in the overhaul of his unit’s recruiting and training processes, and is thoroughly deserving of the recognition of Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant.”