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Royal Marine presented medal by HM The King after winning Service marksmanship competition
6 August 2025
A Royal Marine who proved his skill and expertise in a marksmanship competition was presented with the prestigious King’s Medal by His Majesty King Charles.
Corporal Callum Wales emerged victorious at the annual Royal Navy and Royal Marines Operational Shooting Competition.
Over the course of two weeks, nearly 40 sailors and Royal Marines compete for the top honours with their exceptional skill, precision, and discipline tested and celebrated.
Cpl Wales, from Hertfordshire, claimed the King’s Medal – an accolade awarded annually to the individual who demonstrates the highest standards of marksmanship under pressure.
He serves as a Platoon Weapons Class 2 Instructor and is a key member of the Royal Marines Lethality Development Team, specialising in marksmanship instruction.
Over his 13-year career, he has competed in numerous shooting competitions, earning distinction as the Champion at Arms at the Royal Marines Operational Shooting Competition 2023 (RMOSC23)—recognising him as the top shot in the Royal Marines.
His expertise has also been showcased internationally, having represented the Corps in both regional and national championship United States Marine Corps events.
Cpl Wales said: "It’s an incredible honour to win the King’s Medal and to represent the Royal Marines in this competition.
“The standard of shooting across the board was outstanding, and it’s a privilege to compete alongside such talented individuals.
“This achievement is a testament to the training and support we receive, and I’m proud to bring this title back to my unit."
In a moment of immense pride and tradition, Corporal Callum Wales RM was personally presented with the King's Medal for Champion Shot of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines by King Charles during a formal ceremony at Windsor Castle.
Following the presentation, His Majesty engaged in a private conversation with Cpl Wales and the other Kings’ medallists from the other Services, during which they discussed the challenges of the competition, the importance of marksmanship in modern military operations, and the dedication required to achieve such a prestigious accolade.
Cpl Wales described the experience as "an unforgettable honour," adding that His Majesty's genuine interest in the competition and the role of the Royal Navy was both humbling and inspiring.
This achievement is a testament to the training and support we receive, and I’m proud to bring this title back to my unit."
The RNRMOSC is a key event in the Royal Navy calendar, designed to test and enhance the operational shooting skills of personnel from the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
The competition includes a variety of disciplines, from precision shooting to more dynamic serials whilst wearing representative fighting order. These serials are all aimed at enhancing individuals’ marksmanship skills under pressure.
The competition also serves as a platform for fostering camaraderie and sharing best practices across the Service. With nearly 40 competitors from diverse units and backgrounds, regular and reserve, the event underscores the importance of teamwork and mutual support in achieving operational excellence.
Vice Admiral Andy Burns, Fleet Commander, attended the final and presented the Navy Top Ten marksman badges and a replica King’s Medal. He praised the competitors for their dedication and professionalism.
“The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Operational Shooting Competition is a vital opportunity to hone the skills that are essential to our operational effectiveness,”
“The calibre of shooting on display this week has been exceptional, and I congratulate all participants for their grit, commitment and hard work. Special congratulations go to Corporal Callum Wales RM for his outstanding achievement in winning the King’s Medal – a true reflection of his skill and ability."