Described as an active and exemplary servant to the people of Suffolk, Richard is a well-respected role model to his colleagues, and he has dedicated his life to serving his community and country. He has worked in wholetime service and in his spare time as an On-Call firefighter and trained many new Suffolk recruits, ensuring they uphold the highest standards of safety and a positive culture across the service.
Richard also helped train Suffolk firefighters to drive ambulances during the first wave of the pandemic and took the lead role in driving these vehicles, potentially putting himself in danger to help the community before the vaccine was available.
He overcame serious injury to his leg and knee, sustained whilst attending a forest fire. He was admitted to hospital where doctors told him he might not make a full recovery or return to full operational duties, but with the help of the Firefighters Charity and after 15-months of support and rehabilitation, he returned to full operational duties; a true testament to his resolve, personal resilience, commitment to the service and his determination to continue to serve his community. His injury and experience of the Firefighters’ Charity made a lasting impact and led him to help and support other injured firefighters and their families by fundraising for the Charity. He has helped raise the Charity’s profile with numerous fundraising events such as Ladder Climbs, Open Days, and the successful Suffolk Fire and Rescue Car Draw helping to raise more than £200,000 and demonstrating his success in developing charity activity in the local community.
Jon Lacey, Chief Fire Officer at Suffolk Fire and Rescue, said:
“Richard is an outstanding member of the fire and rescue service family and has served his community and his country with selfless dedication.
“I could not be prouder of him and his achievements to date and he could not be more deserving of this recognition. Congratulations Richard.”
Richard also joined the Civilian Services Contingent as a drill instructor and served nationally at Remembrance Day events in London, taking a pivotal role in preparing the fire service parade to take part in the service. He then went on to lead the Civilian Services Contingent at the Remembrance Parade 2020, a proud achievement for him, Suffolk and the National Fire Service.
Richard leads the Suffolk Ceremonial Team, a voluntary role, attending funerals for serving and retired firefighters, events across the county and firefighter memorial events, supporting the fire service tradition of showing respect for the fallen and promoting positive values in the community.
Richard John Clarke, Crew Commander for Newmarket at Suffolk Fire and Rescue, said:
“I am truly overwhelmed, very proud and privileged to be recognised in His Majesty The Kings Birthday Honours List.”
