After 20 years of distinguished and dedicated service, Major J. Lacey has handed over command of the Royal Russell School CCF Army Section.

Major Lacey joined the contingent in 2002, transferring from Bristol ACF, and in 2005 was appointed Officer Commanding (OC) Army Section. Over the past two decades, he has led the section with commitment, professionalism, and care – guiding and inspiring more than 1,500 cadets to develop their confidence, resilience, and leadership potential.

Although stepping down from his role at Royal Russell, Major Lacey has not hung up his boots. He has been appointed as a Deputy President (DP) with the Army Cadet Commissions Board (ACCB), where he will help select candidates for probationary commissions – identifying those with the character, intellect, and leadership potential to serve in the Army’s Cadet Forces. We congratulate Major Lacey on this prestigious national appointment and thank him sincerely for his outstanding contribution to our contingent and community.

Following an interview process with Wing Commander Leggatt (Contingent Commander) and Mr Stathopoulos (Assistant Head, Co-Curricular), we are delighted to announce that Captain N. Quick has been appointed as the new Officer Commanding Army Section for Royal Russell School CCF.

Captain Quick’s Royal Russell journey began in 2008 when he joined the contingent as a cadet under then-Captain Lacey. Rising through the ranks to Company Sergeant Major and Head of the CCF, he returned after a few years as an instructor, and later commissioned in February 2018. Since then, he has held a number of key roles, including DofE Facilitator, Troop Commander, Planning Officer, and School Staff Instructor, demonstrating the same dedication and leadership that have defined his time with the CCF.

Beyond the school, Captain Quick serves as Assistant Directing Staff at the Cadet Training Centre, Frimley Park, where he instructs both new adult volunteers and senior cadets on national training courses. In his professional life, Captain Quick is a Police Officer with the Metropolitan Police, having undertaken a variety of operational roles including response and the Territorial Support Group (TSG) where he has earned multiple commendations for his outstanding service.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Major Lacey for two decades of exceptional leadership and commitment, and warmly congratulate Captain Quick on his new appointment. We look forward to seeing the Army Section continue to thrive under his leadership.