Junior Regimental Sergeant Major Charlie Sambell led 742 soldiers off parade at the Army Foundation College Harrogate Graduation Parade this week, achieving one of the highest appointments available to a junior soldier at the college.
Chosen from a cohort of more than 740 trainees, Charlie was selected in recognition of his leadership, professionalism, and commitment throughout his training. The role of Junior Regimental Sergeant Major is unique to the Army Foundation College Harrogate and reflects the confidence placed in the individual by both instructors and fellow soldiers.
The parade also marked the retirement of Warrant Officer Class One Regimental Sergeant Major Ben Townley, who brought a 25-year Army career to a close.
From trainee to trusted leader
Charlie said he did not anticipate being appointed to the senior student role.
“I never expected to be JRSM. What I aimed for was just to be the best version of myself. I always push myself to do my best, and I’m glad I got as far as I could.”
During his time in post, he said the responsibility changed how he viewed leadership.
“As the JRSM, I had to take a step back and look out for others — to see if anyone was struggling and how I could help them. It wasn’t just about improving myself; it was about improving the whole platoon. I really enjoyed trying to support everyone.”
He paid tribute to the staff who supported him during his course.
“My platoon staff have been amazing. They have been a constant helping hand. My PTI (Physical Training Instructor) Staff Robertson is the Bs and Es — he’s one of the best members of staff you could ask for.”
Having completed basic training, Charlie will now move to Gibraltar Barracks in Minley to begin combat engineering training with the Royal Engineers.
“I can’t wait to be a Sapper,” he said.
The parade marked the completion of initial training for the 16 and 17-year-old soldiers. Over several months they undertook military skills training, physical development, and education, finishing with a demanding two-week battle camp and tactical exercise. They will now progress to their chosen regiments and corps to begin specialist trade training.
A career concluded on parade
For Regimental Sergeant Major Townley, the ceremony represented both a celebration and a farewell. He joined the Army aged 16 years and 10 months at Pirbright and recalled marching on and off parade as a young recruit. Over the next 25 years he rose through the ranks to become the senior soldier at the Army Foundation College Harrogate.
A former Scots Guardsman, he described his service as “a rollercoaster of adventure”, beginning with Trooping the Colour at the age of 17 and Guards of Honour for American Presidents. His career included operational tours of Iraq and Afghanistan, service in Cyprus, and participation in exercises around the world.
Reflecting on the graduating soldiers, he said: “Every one of them has tested themselves physically and mentally. They’re proud to be here. If you give them the right tools, they’ll show you what they can do.”
“It was emotional leading them out and hearing the families cheering. Knowing you’ve played even a small part in the success of the soldiers marching behind you makes you proud. It’s a lovely way to end my career.”
Advice for the future
Before the soldiers stepped onto the parade square, RSM Townley encouraged them to make the most of their time in uniform.
“Take every opportunity you can. Volunteer for everything. It goes really quickly. It’s not just a job — it’s a lifestyle. Stop and enjoy it.”
Charlie offered simple guidance to his peers as they move on to the next stage of training.
“Grit it out. Keep going — you’ll regret leaving. Keep going and you’ll make yourself proud.”
As the 742 newly trained soldiers marched off parade, the occasion marked both the culmination of months of effort and the beginning of their careers in the British Army.
Image: MOD Crown Copyright News / Editorial Licence.
