Rev Karl Freeman to receive MBE

Revd Karl Freeman, Rector of Emmanuel Church in Plymouth, has been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list for his work as army chaplain to the 29 Commando, Royal Artillery.

Rev Freeman said: “I have served 29 Commando, Royal Artillery ( a regular Army regiment who serve in support of the Royal Marine Commandos under Fleet Command) for 22 years as their Padre since 1994 and tfor three years previously as a ‘civilian’.

"The ministry has been largely based at The Royal Citadel, Plymouth but has also taken me to such places abroad as Sierra Leone, Norway, UN Cyprus, Bosnia, Northern Ireland, France and Israel. Though most of my time ‘in the field’ with soldiers has been in the barren, wet, cold and generally inclement UK military exercise areas  such as Salisbury Plain, Cape Wrath, Otterburn, The Brecon Beacons and Dartmoor.

“It’s when you’re in the field with the soldiers that Padres get to ply their trade best! Ive had a wonderful twenty two years, graciously accepted as one of the regimental family.

"I’ve officiated at great celebrations, most notably the recent 50th Commando Gunner Anniversary, very sad and poignant funerals, joyful weddings and many other regimental occasions. I remain fascinated that tough commando soldiers are so open to hearing and talking about faith, what a privilege to commend Christ to them in the midst of their exacting and brave duties which they carry out on our behalf.”

The Bishop of Plymouth, Rt Revd NIck McKinnel, said the MBE was a wonderful recognition of Karl’s dedication to the armed forces in Plymouth.

Garry Reed, headteacher of Swimbridge Church of England Primary School in North Devon has also been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.