MICHAEL Saunders, a former pupil at both Hayward’s Primary School, and Queen Elizabeth’s Community College, in Crediton, has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Michael is the son of Wyn and Peter Saunders of  Chapel Downs, Crediton, and went into the Army on leaving QECC.

During his 25 years’ service, he served in various trouble spots around the world and finally as a Warrant Officer,  working for the High Commission in Singapore.

When he left the Army, he was re-employed as a civilian with Miliary experience for the High Commission, and is the Assistant to the Defence Attache at the Embassy Foreign Office.

In his position, he has met Royalty, and escorted Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, around the Embassy Gardens. He also met Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of  Cornwall.

His job includes organising the ceremonial parades, dealing with British veterans, and he also has a lot to do with the Gurkhas.

His BEM was awarded for his dedicated work, as a civilian for services to the British Foreign and Defence Policy, in Singapore.

Michael is married to Amanda, and they have three daughters, one who went to Queen Elizabeth’s School in Crediton and the other two were educated in Singapore. All three are teachers.

Both Wyn and Peter say they are very very proud of Michael.

Margaret Tucker