SSAFA Thailand Chairman Mark Watson receives Armed Forces Charity Award

05 March 2021

Mark Watson, Branch Chairman of SSAFA Thailand was awarded the Sir James Gildea Local and Global Award by SSAFA at an event held at the British Embassy, Bangkok.

This award was created to recognise volunteers and employees for their exceptional contribution and commitment to SSAFA’s activities and values.

Colonel Roger Lewis, the Defence Attaché at the British Embassy Bangkok presented the award to Mark.

Mark was in the Army from 1964 and retired in 2003, joining SSAFA Germany in JHQ Rheindahlen but then shortly moved to Thailand in 2003 and formed a SSAFA Thailand Branch.

Mark said: “I am incredibly touched to be receiving the Sir James Gildea Local and Global Award. SSAFA does a remarkable job and SSAFA Thailand is the tip of the iceberg.

"There is a significant ex-pat community in Thailand and Malaysia/Singapore because of their military involvement in the past. Most SSAFA Thailand’s work is centred in Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia and the Philippines but we have also had cases in Indonesia and Fiji as well.

"I am part of SSAFA because I want to help people and whether that means seeking financial aid, medical help or helping someone navigate return to the UK, each case is different and extremely rewarding to be a part of.”

Due to the recent easing of Covid restrictions in Thailand, a presentation of the award was possible in recognition of Mark's truly exceptional contribution and commitment to SSAFA's activities and values over many years, both in Thailand and the wider region.