Outstanding contributions and selfless courage have earned Military Provost Guardsman, Private Sean Wynne, the Royal Air Force Wittering Smart Award for 2021.
Image By: Supplied Image By Private Sean Wynne
This award is named in memory of Senior Aircraftman James Smart, who sadly lost his life during Operation ELLAMY in 2011. The award is presented only to those holding a junior rank who have performed exceptionally in the preceding calendar year. The winner is drawn from a shortlist of twelve personnel who have received the Station Commander’s Monthly Award for Outstanding Achievement.
Private Wynne’s achievements throughout 2021 have been exemplary and he has continually demonstrated the best traditions and values of the British Army. The Military Provost Guard Service (MPGS) is part of the Army and is responsible for maintaining security at British Armed Forces locations throughout Great Britain.
In July 2021 Sean displayed inspirational courage by risking his own life to save a badly injured, unconscious member of the public from a damaged and burning vehicle on the southbound A1. It was a complicated rescue, with the vehicle angled down a steep embankment at night after crashing into the trees. After rescuing the casualty from the vehicle and safely moving them to the roadside, Private Wynne provided first aid until the emergency services arrived.
Private Wynne said: “I only did what anyone else would have done. There was a situation, a person was hurt, and I needed to deal with that situation as quickly as possible. There are times when your training just kicks in and that was one of those times, I was lucky because my training allowed me to help.”
Sean is no stranger to physical exercise and has taken on two of Britain’s best-known challenges. In April 2021 Sean completed a Lands End to John O Groats challenge, walking 874 miles to raise money for National Association For Children Of Alcoholics (NACOA), a charity of his choice. In October he completed the London Marathon, once again raising money for NACOA.
The award was presented to Private Wynne at the Station’s regular Honours & Awards Ceremony by the Mayor of Stamford, Councillor Gloria Johnson. The award is marked by the presentation of a silver salver.
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Image By: SAC Daniel Smither
Sean (33) is originally from Derby and no stranger to RAF Wittering. Before joining the MPGS he was an RAF Chef for twelve years, with nine spent at RAF Wittering. Fitness is his biggest interest and he regularly plays badminton.
In December after attending to a junior serviceperson who was suffering with personal mental health problems, Private Wynne took it upon himself to check they were well over the festive period. During this period Sean came into work on his days off and delivered festive treats for his colleagues on Guard Duty to boost Christmas morale.
Private Wynne said: “NACOA has been my charity of choice for five years now, the last two years have been especially difficult for charities due to the Coronavirus. I did as much as I could to try and raise awareness and funds during this time. I knew of the Smart award from my time at Wittering. Just to be nominated was an honour, but it was incredible to actually win it. Thank you.”
Wing Commander Jez Case is the Station Commander at RAF Wittering. He said: “Sean has displayed outstanding levels of courage and compassion. For his admirable service to RAF Wittering and the community, and his selfless and courageous action under extreme pressure, Private Wynne has consistently demonstrated the exceptional personal qualities that make him a worthy recipient of the Smart Award.”
