Sergeant honoured by MBE (From Salisbury Journal)

Sergeant honoured by MBE

9:20am Wednesday 23rd January 2013 in News By David Falcke

SERGEANT Alex Buchanan, who is serving with 32 Regiment Royal Artillery (RA) based at Larkhill, has been awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours list for work done in Afghanistan with the army’s unmanned air systems (UAS), the ‘spy in the sky’.

Sgt Buchanan, 30, was told that he was to receive the award by his commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Craig Palmer, in the Guardroom at Roberts Barracks.

“I was totally in shock when he told me,” said Sgt Buchanan. “It still hasn’t sunk in. I cannot believe it.

“My wife Samantha is so proud of my achievement and has told so many people, many more than I have.”

Lt Col Palmer said: “Alex’s exacting standards, unswerving dedication and unparalleled skill has helped to grow the UAS capability in Afghanistan.

“Without his personal and protracted commitment to help train and mentor his colleagues, this battle-winning and life-saving capability would not be the success that it is.”

Sgt Buchanan joined the army in 1999 and, shortly afterwards, he was posted to his chosen regiment, 32 Regiment, The Wessex Gunners.

During his initial period with the regiment, he was involved with Royal Artillery recruitment but it was the UAS world that caught Sgt Buchanan’s eye.

“It was the operational tempo that appealed to me together with the technological aspect,”

he said. “I like technology and believe that type of job suits me best.”

Sgt Buchanan will remain with 32 Regiment and will be an instructor and mentor.