42 Commando

Military experience

Neil Sutherland joined the Royal Marines in 1991. After 15 months officer training, he spent 12 months as a Troop Commander in Comacchio Group, followed by 2 years as a Rifle Troop Commander in 42 Commando, which included an operational tour in Northern Ireland.

A short stint followed as 42 Commando’s Training Officer, before a period at CTCRM as a Recruit Troop Commander and Company 2IC.

He then trained as a Signals Officer and spent 2 years at 40 Commando which included an operational deployment to West Africa.

On completion of the Army Junior Command and Staff Course, he spent a further 2 years attached to the Army which included 12 months studying for a Masters Degree.

He then undertook an SO2 appointment in Fleet HQ, followed by the Advanced Command and Staff Course. Returning to 42 Commando, he spent 2 years as OC Kilo Company where he deployed on Op Herrick 5 to Afghanistan; for which he was awarded an MBE. An appointment then followed to HQ 3 Commando Brigade as SO2 G3 Plans.

Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 2008, he was appointed to the Permanent Joint Headquarters as the Operations Team Leader responsible for Counter Terrorism (Overseas) and Counter Piracy.

He then served as the Executive Assistant to the Second Sea Lord. Lt Col Sutherland assumed command of 42 Commando on 26 January 2012.

Neil Sutherland is married to Val and they have a son and two daughters.