Armed Forces Day 2026

Defending Defence on Land and Sea: PC Tew's Journey from the Territorial Army to the MDP

Armed Forces Day takes place on the last Saturday each June, falling this year on 27 June.

It is a chance to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving personnel to Service families, veterans and cadets.

In honour of Armed Forces Day, PC Tew shares his story. Currently serving with the Ministry of Defence Police's Portsmouth Marine Unit, his journey into Defence began long before he joined us, starting with a proud career in the British Armed Forces.

From EOD Operator to Troop Sergeant

PC Tew joined the Royal Engineers Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Regiment in 1997, going on to serve across multiple overseas deployments combining EOD operations with adventure training. In 2003, he was called up for active service during the Gulf War, undertaking duties on Operation Medway — supporting UK operations to locate and deal with air-dropped WWII ordnance found on British soil. By the end of his military career, he had risen to Troop Sergeant at a Stage 1 training establishment, responsible for mentoring and training new Army recruits.

Finding Purpose Again

Leaving the Armed Forces proved challenging. PC Tew initially pursued teaching, becoming a lecturer in Uniformed Public Services at local colleges - and it was through that role that he first encountered the MDP. "I don't think my sense of worth really came back until I joined the MDP," he reflects honestly.

A Career Built on Opportunity

Since joining, PC Tew has qualified as an Authorised Firearms Officer Counter Terrorism, become a response driver, achieved his licensed search officer qualification (including Royal visit searches), and most recently earned his RYA Day Skipper qualification with the Portsmouth Marine Unit.

"The most rewarding part of my job is being out on the water protecting the aircraft carriers and HMNB Portsmouth," he says.

Shared Values, Different Uniform

PC Tew draws strong parallels between military and MDP culture: "The Army's core values — Courage, Discipline, Respect, Integrity, Loyalty, Selfless Commitment, and Teamwork — are exactly what's required of a police officer. The uniform may be different, but the ethos is the same."

His advice to those leaving the services? "Follow your heart. Do what is right for you and your family."

Why Armed Forces Day Matters

"It's important that we honour every Airman, Sailor, Soldier, and their families for the sacrifices they make for our country. These men and women give so much - it's only right that we recognise everything they do."