A CHAGFORD Royal Marine Warrant Officer 1 has been awarded a Meritorious Service Medal in recognition of his dedicated service.
Mark Parnell, who joined the Royal Marines in 1980, is currently serving in Portsmouth.
In his long career he has served with all three commando units and has been involved in operations across the globe, including the Falklands war and two tours of duty in Sierra Leone.
Described by his superiors as 'a true professional', WO Parnell has also worked as an instructor of both Royal Marine and Army trainees.
He is a heavy weapons mortar specialist and has achieved the honour of becoming the top non commissioned officer within this specialisation.
WO Parnell, 40, said he considered his time spent on the ocean survey ship HMS Herald in 1986 as one of the highlights of his career. During his period on board, the ship visited a wide range of places including St Helena, Chile, Peru, Panama and New Orleans.
The Meritorious Service Medal is awarded to individuals who, throughout their long career, have given professional and continual high standards of service and provided inspirational leadership.
WO Parnell was presented with his medal by the Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral James Burnell-Nugent on board Nelson's former flagship, HMS Victory, in Portsmouth.
WO Parnell lives in Chagford with his wife Jane and three children, Richard, Andrew and Beth.