Investiture of Marlene Place BEM

The Lieutenant-Governor and Mrs Cripwell felt honoured to be able to host a ceremony at Government House and for His Excellency to be able to present the British Empire Medal to Marlene Place. 

As the wife of retired Army Officer, Major Bob Place, Marlene was well aware of the challenges facing retired army personnel and felt there was an opportunity for somebody to reach out to employers and support agencies to help them understand the unique needs of veterans. 

His Excellency said in his speech that the needs of retired service personnel has improved markedly over the last few years and that Guernsey has been able to keep pace mainly through the endeavours of Mrs Place. He called her work a lifeline yo local veterans who were struggling, enabling them to cope with the challenges that face them, 'a true friend' to all from the Channel Island who served in the Armed Forces. 

The reception was well attended by members of Marlene's family and a selection of veterans and colleagues who have helped Marlene to continue her work throughout the years. 

Photo on front page courtesy of the Guernsey Press, Luke Le Prevost