Band master Tom hits the right notes at RNAS Yeovilton

BAND Colour Sergeant Tom Crane has received The Long Service and Good Conduct Medal awarded in recognition of his exemplary record over 15 years service.

The awards also recognise his exemplary service to the Royal Marine Band Service, Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton and promotion of the Royal Navy.

The presentation of Tom’s medal was made by Commodore Jock Alexander; Commanding Officer of Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton at the annual Christmas carol concert held beneath Concorde's wing in the Fleet Air Arm Museum.

He  joined the Royal Marines Band Service in Sep 1997 having completed a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sports Science and Music at Canterbury Christ Church University. Having played the cello since the age of eight the RM Band Service presented Tom with the opportunity to learn a new instrument, the trombone.

PHOTO: Band Colour Sgt Tom Crane, left, and Commodore Jock Alexander OBE (above).

Reflecting on the last 15 years Tom said: "My life in the Royal Marines Band Service has been both exciting and rewarding, a career in military music has offered me opportunities I would not get anywhere else’ the combination of music training and military training for our secondary role supporting 3 Commando Brigade suits me very well.”

At Yeovilton Tom has had the pleasure of leading the HMS Heron Royal Volunteer Band and 2012 has seen another busy and successful year entertaining both the Ship's Company and members of the local community.

Tom said, “I have particularly enjoyed the band's outreach aspect and educational collaborations with local schools." 

In May 2013 Tom will be drafted back to Plymouth where he looks forward to spending more time with his wife Emma and their two young daughters aged four and three.

 PHOTO: Band Colour Sgt Tom Crane (above) in action at the Fleet Air Arm Museum Carol Concert.

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