Colonel Rob Simpkin appointed Commandant of Suffolk ACF

Colonel Robert Simpkin took up his new appointment on February 1, after being a keen and committed officer for more than 18 years.

During his service, Colonel Simpkin has shown dedication to the development of young people in Suffolk and the Army Cadet Force.

The 55-year-old said: “I’m very pleased about the promotion. It’s come after a lot of hard work over many years.

“I feel honored to take on the position which is the top position within Suffolk for adult volunteers.

“It’s a privilege to be trusted with the whole Suffolk ACF in my hands.”

Colonel Rob Simpkin, supplied (Image: Supplied)

Colonel Simpkin started his journey with Ixworth Detachment back in 1979, when he was 12.

After a few years, colonel Simpkin left the formation to rejoin the ACF as an adult volunteer in 2005.

The Stanton resident said: “I decided to join the cadets after 20 years because I really enjoyed my time there.

“I had two teenage daughters and I wanted them to participate in it too.

“I was very lucky as my girls joined after me and had a fantastic time at ACF.

“One of them is now a serving officer in the British Army and the other one is an officer within the Air Force.”

Over the years, his many roles have included: Detachment Commander at Mildenhall, Company Training Officer, County Duke of Edinburgh Award Officer. 

Colonel Simpkin’s new role will include taking Suffolk ACF forward with new challenges for cadets within the community and county and overseeing 100 adult volunteers and almost 500 cadets.

His colleagues said that the promotion is "truly deserved" as Colonel Simpkin also does a lot of other charity work and volunteers at Alzheimer's Society.

If you would like to join and volunteer at Suffolk ACF, see more information here.