2025 Winners
This year’s Worshipful Company of World Traders Leadership Awards were presented at the Battalion’s Salamanca Day celebration on 8th July in Cyprus – honouring the Battle of Salamanca, where all of The Rifles’ antecedent Regiments can trace lineage back to. The honour to present them was given to Major Anthony ‘Chalky’ White, the longest-serving member of the Battalion, and more than likely the Regiment! Chalky joined the army in 1988 as a soldier and progressed through the ranks, eventually earning a Commission in The Rifles. In his long time in the army, Chalky has been an exemplary leader, and therefore it was befitting for him to present the awards.
Rfn Kingston (A Company).
Rifleman Kingston displays all the attributes of a Chosen Man. Not only is he constantly working to develop himself, but he also encourages those around him to do the same; having him in a section makes the section better. Where those around him are struggling he steps up without asking, providing a helping hand and friendly banter in equal measure. All Riflemen are leaders, and Rifleman Kingston shows that this goes down to our most junior ranks.
Rfn Cook (B Company).
Rifleman Cook acted as a lead scout during several demanding phases on Exercise SENNE BUGLE, in Germany. This including the identification of 6 Platoon’s forming-up-point during a force-on-force phase and led a Company silent insertion into an urban attack. He stepped up as Section Second-in-Command on several occasions during the exercise and again whilst deployed on Operation TIMBERN. A superb Rifleman, he is thoroughly deserving of formal recognition.
LCpl Woodhouse (C Company).
Lance Corporal Woodhouse is excelling under considerable pressure within the Company’s Quartermaster’s department while simultaneously stepping up to responsibilities well above his rank. Acting as a Section Commander in a Rifle Platoon, he consistently displays exceptional professionalism, adaptability, and a level of leadership more commonly expected of an experienced Non-Commissioned Officer. His performance is a clear indicator of his outstanding potential and readiness for greater responsibility.
Cpl Proe (S Company).
During this period, Corporal Proe consistently displayed initiative, professionalism, and leadership well beyond the expectations of his rank and role. His contributions extended beyond the Sniper Platoon, playing a vital role in supporting battalion-level logistical operations and maintaining combat readiness. While many of his tasks align with the responsibilities of his position, the way he executed them was exceptional and deserving of formal recognition. His efforts directly contributed to the successful completion of numerous high-priority missions and reflect great credit upon himself and the unit.
Cpl Earley (HQ Company)
Corporal Early has excelled as the Battalion’s Barrack Manager throughout its deployment in Cyprus, managing the most complex account with professionalism and building vital relationships across military and civilian partners. Operating well above his rank, he has led with clarity, confidence, and a consistently positive attitude. His leadership style has earned him widespread respect across all ranks. Corporal Early exemplifies the highest standards of commitment, experience, and selfless service. His leadership’s impact has been felt across the Battalion.
