Army Officer Lieutenant Colonel Keith Spiers, of Sutton, said he was honoured to receive his OBE at an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

It was presented by Princess Anne in recognition of his passion and drive to change a generation’s perceptions of the military.

Keith leads the Army Community Engagement team in the East Midlands.

The team works with young people to challenge their ideas of the Army and delivers fun and challenging activities.

It aims to inspire and give young people confidence to reach their career aspirations and goals, whatever they may be.

His citation said: “Operating initially in schools in the East Midlands but now across the whole country, his work has enabled those young citizens to better understand the Army and to bust persistent negative myths.

“Starting with nothing, his relentless energy and passion, and his constant innovation, have resulted in his vision of ‘changing the perceptions of a generation’ of children becoming a reality.”

After receiving the award, Keith paid tribute to his team, saying: “This award reflects the work of the whole team. They are the powerhouse, delivering the fun and challenging activities to our young people, and are a privilege to lead.”

He said: “I enjoy working with my team to inspire young people and constantly look for new ways to connect with, and give hope to, young people.

“The team is diverse in many ways, always ready to challenge my ideas as much as try them.

“By far what is important is that they all believe in what we are doing to inspire the next generation, while leaving them better informed about the modern British Army.”

Keith attended the ceremony at Buckingham Palace with his wife, Helen, and their children, Charlie (12) and Alex (21).
Asked what message he would share with the younger generation, he added: “Grasp every opportunity with enthusiasm and self-belief, enjoying the adventure it leads you on.”

Keith’s Army career spans more than 30 years and includes leading an infantry company in Iraq, and commanding the 3rd Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment.