25 March 2025
This year marks 48 years of service for Corporal Paul Incoll.
For the past 17 years, he has been a stalwart presence in the Australian Army Cadets (AAC), posted to the South Queensland Brigade Headquarters as an ADF liaison officer.
Recently, in front of his peers and family, Corporal Incoll was presented with the Soldier’s Medallion for exemplary service by Brigade Commander Colonel Athanasios Tsamis.
The commendation recognises his commitment and exceptional efficiency in executing his duties.
Colonel Tsamis described Corporal Incoll as an excellent ambassador for the Australian Army Cadet program in south Queensland.
“Corporal Incoll’s influence across the entire program can be seen in the way he represents the best of the Australian Army and lives by the values that we stand for,” Colonel Tsamis said.
“His attention to detail in developing cadets and supporting Army Cadet Staff volunteers has resulted in more confidence in the participants conducting activities and a greater sense of fun whenever he attends a region to support them.”
ADF liaison officers assist with logistics and activity coordination during cadet promotional courses, and provide mentorship to Army Cadet staff and cadets.
Australian Army Cadets has 39 units across south Queensland.
Corporal Incoll’s first experience with cadets was when he joined the Australian Navy Cadets at TS Morton on the Brisbane River. He fondly recalls travelling from Woodridge by train and bus to attend.
“I travelled a long way, but it was all worth it,” Corporal Incoll said. “I completed my quartermaster gunners course, and my first experience firing a service rifle was with the SLR.”
Many cadets across the region recognise his catchphrase, “outstanding”, which has become a symbol of his positive influence.
He said he felt a sense of pride in those who transitioned to Army Cadet staff (ACS) volunteers.
“To see them transition and take on roles within the units gives me confidence in our program,” Corporal Incoll said.
“I have also had the chance to see cadets who have enlisted and wanted to give back by becoming ACS, or to have the opportunity to discuss their training and experiences after they have attended Kapooka and initial employment training.
“All of these moments have given me a sense of pride to think that I may have had a part in their development in life after cadets.
“I feel humbled to be awarded this prestigious award and will ensure that I continue to uphold all of the words that have been written on the certificate presented to me.
“I will always be grateful to those who considered me worthy of this recognition.”
