THIS TIME LAST YEAR

This time last year we were all celebrating the news that Sheila, married to Steve, and the curator and Commanding Officer of the museum, had been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the 2017 New Year's Honours list.

The BEM was awarded to Sheila For Services to Second World War Heritage. Since the museum started off in 2003 Sheila has been the driving force and has worked tirelessly to bring the dream to a reality. From the very early days Sheila was to be seen working harder than many men in freezing conditions. A quality that she still has today.

 Sheila has the knack of being able to see the abilities volunteers have and gives them the opportunity to reach their full potential, often in excess of what they thought they were capable of.

 The presentation of the BEM was on the 5th of April 2017 in the hangar at the museum. Ann Kerridge, chairman of Cornwall Council read the citation for the award and the Lord Lieutenant for Cornwall, Colonel Edward Thomas Bolitho pinned the medal upon Sheila. The hangar was full with family, friends and volunteers to witness this most deserved of awards. Sheila looked stunning, and never was there a prouder husband than Steve.

 Sheila, with typical modesty, made a small speech and declared that "the medal is for us all at the museum." 

 After the ceremony a huge celebration took place in the hangar, a true Cornish spread with pasties, saffron cake and cream teas.

 Sheila and Steve attended a garden party at Buckingham Palace in the summer which was enjoyed by both of them. 
Ann Kerridge, Sheila, Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall Edward Thomas Bolitho and Steve


Leading Sea Cadet Shannon Vale passing the medal to the Lord Lt of Cornwall


Pinning on the award


Sheila and the Lord Lt of Cornwall


Steve making a speech after the presentation.

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