A CHAPLAIN with strong links to Wiltshire has been honoured with a prestigious international military award.

Reverend Mark Perry, an ambassador for Salisbury-based charity ALABARÉ and a serving RAF chaplain, has been awarded the Bronze Polish Army Medal in recognition of his work promoting the history and traditions of the Polish Armed Forces.

The medal, established in 1999, is presented by Poland’s Minister of National Defence to foreign civilians and military personnel who have made significant contributions to supporting the country’s armed forces.

The Bronze Polish Army Medal. (Picture: ALABARÉ)

Revd Perry received the honour during a ceremony at the Polish Embassy in London, where it was presented by Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister, Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz.

He has long supported ALABARÉ, which works to help people facing homelessness and veterans rebuild their lives, dating back to his time as a curate in the Iwerne Valley Benefice in the Diocese of Salisbury.

Mark receives his award. (Picture: ALABARÉ)

Andrew Lord MBE, chief executive of ALABARÉ, said: “Mark’s recognition is richly deserved. His deep commitment to service, both in the Armed Forces and through his tireless support of our veterans, perfectly reflects the values we hold dear at ALABARÉ. We are immensely proud of his achievement.”

Responding to the award, Revd Perry said: “As chaplains, we serve quietly and without expectation of recognition, so to receive this award is deeply humbling.

“This is not mine alone; it reflects the quiet dedication of all who serve in military chaplaincy across nations and cultures, united in the calling to uphold the dignity of humanity.

“Recognition like this is a reminder that acts of service, often small and unseen, contribute to the pursuit of lasting peace. As Desmond Tutu said, ‘Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world’. A timely reminder that service to others can have a profound impact.”

The award places him among a select group recognised for strengthening international military partnerships.