Thomas Belfield, Army

If there were more role models like Hughie the world would be a better place.

I first met Hughie in a football changing room. I was new to Battalion and he was the first to make me feel welcome and bring me in to the team. I had no idea at the time that he was the RSM (the most senior soldier in Battalion), as there is no rank in football, and yet it was clear that he commanded the whole respect of that room with his character alone. I have since learnt a lot from him about the military and leadership but I’ll never forget the humility and respect that he showed from the most senior to the most junior.