Debbie can park anywhere at RNAS Yeovilton

THE voluntary work by Lieutenant Commander Debbie Sims to the families at the Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton has been commended.

Debbie, 42, a Royal Naval Reservist, has been recognised and congratulated by Yeovilton's Commanding Officer, Commodore Jcok Alexander, by presenting her with an Award for Excellence.

The Commodore's Award for Excellence is awarded on a regular basis to an individual who has proven themselves to be worthy of particular recognition through enterprise and success.

Debbie retired from the Royal Navy in 2008 and became a Royal Naval Reservist within the Fighter Control specialisation. Using skills, experience and knowledge gained in the Navy she has ceaselessly promoted an inclusive family friendly support network.

Since retiring from full time service in 2008, Debbie has started, coordinated and coached two successful netball teams for wives and serving females that participated in the local leagues.

The two teams have now become one as they are about to enter league one, the top grouping in the Yeovil Summer Netball League. Debbie herself plays in the Centre position.

Debbie said: “I enjoy seeing the team’s confidence grow and we have come all the way up through the leagues since I started, all the way to the top! It’s a great opportunity to develop in the sporting environment and encourage and develop each other whilst keeping fit.”

And she added: ''You don’t do this kind of thing for the recognition I do it because I know how it feels. It’s important to meet other partners in similar circumstances and get out from the four walls. It’s not always easy with children and no extended family to help so we, the Navy, are the family and I source entertainment for the children and catering.”

Lieutenant Commander Phil Richardson said: “This is an unseen yet hugely appreciated support function that Debbie has proactively generated and she has personally helped struggling families cope when one parent is away for a period of time.

''Steadfastly loyal, Debbie is an excellent ambassador for the Royal Navy and Royal Naval Reserves. An unseen area of support that the military undoubtedly benefits from.”

Debbie, a mother herself of twin girls aged seven, whose husband serves away with the military, was delighted to receive the Commodore's Award along with a glass decanter inscribed with HMS Heron and a ‘park anywhere permit’ for the Station for one month which is invaluable!

PHOTO: Lt Cdr Debbie Sims with, from left, Lt Cdr Kilian Hall, Cdre Jock Alexander and Lt Cdr Phil Richardson.

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