Proudly collecting the certificate he was not able to receive are the family of Chief Petty Officer Graham ‘Sid’ Street.
CPO Street sadly passed away from cancer in 2022 before he could collect his Gold Valedictory Certificate, awarded for hard work and dedication to the Royal Navy throughout his 35 years of service.
In his day job, Graham was an Underwater Warfare Specialist, but his love of rugby, and support to the Royal Navy Rugby Union, played a huge part in his career and life. CPO Street devoted much of his spare time to raising money for various charities, including Rugby Against Cancer.
Sadly, Graham was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2017, but he didn’t let that get in the way of his dedication and hard work. In 2020 he raised over £250,000 for Charlie’s Beach Hut, a charity that provides children experiencing life-limiting illnesses with the opportunity to enjoy a holiday with their family. For this astounding effort, Graham received the British Empire Medal.
Initially from Little Clacton in Essex, CPO Street joined the Royal Navy in 1987 and since served in many Portsmouth based units, eventually calling Portsmouth ‘home’. Graham earned nine service medals throughout his Royal Navy Career, including the Meritorious Service Medal.
An inspiration and role model to so many, Graham was a huge character with a passion for coaching others, whether that be on the rugby field or inspiring new generations of sailors at HMS Collingwood.
“Throughout his battle with cancer, he demonstrated fortitude and immense resilience in abundance, never allowing his trademark sense of humour and wit to wane” said Major Steve Cox RM, in charge of the Hasler rehabilitation centre at HMS Drake, where CPO Street spent his final serving months.
Mrs Street and family collected the award on behalf of CPO Street yesterday, a day filled with emotion and pride for a truly inspirational man.
