News


Falklands commendation for graduate Ryland Cairns has been honoured with a Commander British Forces Commendation for


distinguished service in the field of water supply, working alongside troops in the Falkland Islands.


Ryland checks a valve in the snow


Left: Ryland receives his award from Commodore Philip Thicknesse; Commander of British Forces South Atlantic Islands


When Ryland graduated with BSc (Hons) in Outdoor Studies in 2005, he was keen to continue his studies with research that had real-life applications. He found an advanced postgraduate course in water processes at Cranfield University and the rest, as they say, is history.


His research into drinking water treatment prompted a string of accolades and led him to his current position as the process scientist responsible for ensuring a supply of clean water to MoD facilities in the South Atlantic.


In the depth of the 2010 winter, a critical plant break down at a large site on the Falkland Islands threatened the supply of potable water. Emergency conditions were put in place forcing Ryland and a team of engineers to work day and night in all conditions (freezing rain, snow, hail and gale force winds) for seven days to ensure the demand for drinking water was met.


The commendation was presented by Commodore Philip Thicknesse, Commander of British Forces South Atlantic Islands. He says: “Ryland’s dedication and determination to ensure that troops could function as normal, providing safe drinking water and allowing personal administration, is truly exceptional. The personal qualities shown towards efficiency and sense of duty are outstanding and Ryland thoroughly deserves the highest award I can bestow.”


Ryland (27), who originally hails from North Yorkshire, remembers his undergraduate studies fondly: “I chose to study in Cumbria mainly because of the course, but the location certainly helped in the decision process.


“I am very proud to receive this award and would not have been able to do it without a fantastic support team. The skills and knowledge I acquired on the BSc (Hons) in Outdoor Studies course were invaluable, allowing me to work outside safely in extremely harsh conditions.“


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