Giving back through the Army Cadets: Mark Rhodes' story

For more than a decade, Mark Rhodes, Regional Services Manager for Sodexo Government, has dedicated his spare time to helping young people build confidence, develop leadership skills and reach their potential through the Merseyside Army Cadet Force.

His connection with the cadets, however, started much earlier.

From cadet to volunteer leader

Mark first joined the Army Cadets on the Wirral in 1983, inspired by a childhood ambition to serve in the Armed Forces.

"I believed becoming a cadet would provide me with the discipline, support and skills I needed to pursue a career in the Army," he says.

That ambition became reality in 1987 when Mark joined the British Army and served with the Royal Military Police. During his military career, he was stationed in Germany, Zimbabwe and the UK, as well as serving operationally during the Gulf War.

After leaving the Army and returning to the North West, Mark felt it was time to give something back.

"I wanted to help create the same opportunities for young people that I had benefited from myself. Rejoining the Army Cadet Force as an adult volunteer was the perfect way to do that."

Today, Mark has been involved with the cadet movement for 10 years and was recently awarded the Cadet Forces Adult Volunteers Long Service Medal, recognising both his work with the cadets and his previous military service.

Helping young people thrive

As a Detachment Commander and Warrant Officer Class 2, Mark leads one of more than 28 cadet detachments across Merseyside, supporting around 50 cadets alongside a team of fellow volunteers.

The Army Cadet Force offers young people aged 12 to 18 opportunities to develop practical and life skills through activities including navigation, first aid, community engagement, leadership training and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

But for Mark, the greatest reward is seeing young people grow in confidence.

"One of the most amazing things is watching a nervous 12-year-old walk through the door for the first time, unsure of what to expect," he explains. "They are welcomed by older cadets, supported by volunteers and gradually begin to build confidence. Over time, you see them take on responsibility and develop into leaders themselves."

One cadet from Mark's detachment has progressed to become Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major, the highest-ranking cadet in Merseyside.

"Seeing young people develop and go on to successful and fulfilling careers, whether in the military or civilian life, is incredibly rewarding."

Building skills for the future

The cadet experience helps young people develop qualities that are valuable far beyond cadet activities.

Respect, integrity, teamwork, resilience, discipline and leadership are all embedded within the cadet training programme, helping prepare young people for further education, employment and adult life.

Through activities ranging from rock climbing and mountain biking to community events and residential camps, cadets are encouraged to challenge themselves, build confidence, and discover new strengths.

"It gives young people opportunities they might not otherwise have," says Mark. "They learn practical skills, gain qualifications and develop the confidence to succeed in whatever path they choose."

The value of employer support

Mark also recognises the importance of employer support in enabling volunteers to contribute to organisations like the Army Cadet Force.

"None of this would be possible without the support and flexibility I've received from my management team at Sodexo. Being able to balance work and volunteering means I can continue supporting young people and giving something back to the community."

Why National Cadet Week matters

For Mark, National Cadet Week is an opportunity to celebrate both the volunteers who give their time and the young people who make the cadet movement so special.

"The success of the Cadet Force relies on volunteers, parents, supporters and employers working together. National Cadet Week gives us the chance to recognise everyone involved."

Most importantly, he believes it shines a light on the positive contribution cadets make to their communities.

"Cadets give up their own time to support community events, local charities and remembrance activities. They represent the very best of community spirit."

Having started his own journey as a young cadet more than 40 years ago, Mark remains passionate about helping the next generation develop the confidence, skills and leadership qualities they need to succeed.

"The Cadet Force is about so much more than military training. It's about helping young people realise their potential and become capable, responsible members of their communities. Having benefited from it myself, it's a privilege to now give something back."