The Boys’ Brigade has been pleased to be able to recently award the President’s Commendations to two young people.

James Bartels – 16^th Liverpool

On Sunday 2^nd February at a Company Family Service the Brigade Secretary presented James Bartels with the Brigade President’s Commendation. James was born with a speech impediment and up until the age of eight found it extremely difficult to communicate with other people. Despite the challenges he faced James became Junior Prime Minister of the Liverpool Schools’ Parliament and Liverpool Young Lord Mayor.

Paul Taylor, Captain of the 16^th Liverpool said “We are delighted that James’ efforts and courage have been recognised in this way. Well done James.”

James Caldwell – 3^rd Kilsyth

On Sunday 2^nd February, during the weekly service at Anderson Parish Church, 11 year old James Caldwell was presented with the President’s Commendation by Alan Hunter, Training & Development Officer for BB Scotland.

James has been a member of the Company for five years, joining as an Anchor Boy aged six. By that time he had already been diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and recently underwent major surgery, which so far has been successful.

Christine Johnston, Captain of the 3^rd Kilsyth said “James is a courageous, happy boy who always has a smile on his face and takes part, to the best of his ability, in our planned activities. We recently held an all night games session and James was there taking part and playing games. During the session, his wound was leaking so we took him home and as he got out of the car, he said, ‘Wait there, I’m coming back to finish the night’. So with the wound duly dressed he was back running around again.”

James’ mum, Claire, said “We’re so proud of James and delighted he has been recognised by The Boys’ Brigade – it’s a great honour. Despite the problems he has faced, he is always determined to go to the BB, to see his friends and have fun.”