Dedicated volunteer honoured with Commendation from Allied Rapid Reaction Corps

07 January 2026

Long-standing volunteer for SSAFA, Roger Wilson, received a coveted Chief of Staff Commendation for outstanding service from NATO's Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC) at its annual Christmas Carol Service last month.  

Volunteering for SSAFA for 16 years, Roger’s role as a Caseworker and Divisional Secretary has been fundamental in aiding veterans, serving personnel and their families through times of hardship in the Gloucestershire region.

Roger, from Gloucestershire, received his commendation by the Chief of Staff of the ARRC, Major General ND Grant DSO MC. The recognition for his volunteering followed a case in 2024, which saw Roger work tirelessly to ensure a family could remain close to their loved one throughout a serious illness, coordinating financial support for accommodation and offering reassurance every step of the way.

Roger began volunteering for SSAFA in 2011 after 22 years of service working as an Engineering Officer in the RAF working on Phantoms, Harriers and Vulcans. He followed this with a further 16 years at GCHQ, as well as working within the MOD and on a US Navy base.

Lieutenant Colonel Tim Mallett, Chief Public Affairs Officer for the ARRC, said: “Mr Wilson is compassionate and determined. His actions remind us of what true service and humanity look like and, on behalf of HQ ARRC, thank you, Mr Wilson and thank you, SSAFA Gloucestershire for being a lifeline when it matters most.”

Like the other 14 volunteers at the Gloucestershire branch of SSAFA, Roger is driven and committed to providing aid to those who need it, with the branch averaging 90 cases per year.  

Stephen Shergold, SSAFA Gloucestershire Branch Chair, said: “Roger is truly deserving of this recognition. I’ve had the pleasure of being Branch Chair for two years now, and I have witnessed Roger's exceptional dedication and skill as a caseworker. He really embodies SSAFA's mission to ensure no-one, veteran, serving personnel or their families alike is left to battle alone.”