Combined Cadet Force community is proud to congratulate Lieutenant Colonel David Hobbs, Contingent Commander of Reddam House School in Berkshire, on being awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours List 2026 for his exceptional service to volunteering.
He has championed opportunities that help young people grow in confidence, resilience and leadership. Under his guidance, the Reddam House contingent has flourished, offering cadets a supportive environment where they can challenge themselves, develop new skills and embody the values of service and teamwork. His commitment to supporting both cadets and adult volunteers has had a lasting impact on the school and the wider community.
Lt Col Hobbs has been volunteering with the Army Cadets for over 30 years splitting his time between the ACF as part of The Royal County of Berkshire ACF where he volunteered in a number of roles since 1994 until taking up his post at Reddam House CCF in January 2019.
“Lt Col Hobbs’ dedication to the CCF exemplifies the very best of volunteer leadership. His passion for developing young people and supporting fellow volunteers has strengthened the contingent and inspired countless cadets. This honour is a fitting recognition of his outstanding contribution.” - Col David Kenny OBE, Commander South East.
Rebuilding of the CCF Unit
When Lt Col Hobbs assumed command, Reddam House CCF was in special measures, with just 50 cadets and two CFAVs. Through his vision, determination, and hands‑on leadership, the contingent has undergone a remarkable period of sustained growth. Today, it proudly parades 261 cadets and 13 CFAVs, representing a fivefold increase in participation and a complete revitalisation of the unit’s culture and capability.
His impact extends beyond Reddam House. Lt Col Hobbs has overseen the development of the school’s partnership contingent at Luckley House CCF, supporting the training and growth of 4 CFAVs and 45 cadets. His work has ensured that young people from outside Reddam House also benefit from the opportunities, confidence, and skills that the cadet experience provides.
Contributions to the DofE Award
Beyond his contingent duties, Lt Col Hobbs serves nationally as the Army Cadet Force Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Panel Advisor for the CCF, supporting adult training, sharing best practice, and contributing to the delivery of DofE programmes across the country.
He also supports surrounding ACF counties with adventurous training for both cadets and CFAVs.Across his ACF and CCF career, Lt Col Hobbs has attended over 30 summer camps and countless training weekends. As Berkshire ACF’s DofE Award Officer, he oversaw the achievement of more than 75 Gold Awards, and he continues to support National Gold Expeditions as a Safety Supervisor and Assessor.
A true Volunteer
Importantly, Lt Col Hobbs is not employed by Reddam House — he is a volunteer in the truest sense, giving his time, expertise, and energy purely out of commitment to young people and the cadet movement.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Lt Col Hobbs on this well‑deserved achievement and thank him for his continued service to the cadet movement.
If you would like to make an impact like that of Lt Col David Hobbs please reach out to your local CCF contingent to get involved!