Navy News
Direct from the front-line, the official newspaper of the Royal Navy, Navy News, brings you the latest news, features and award winning photos every month.
Royal Navy veteran receives new beret more than 30 years after leaving service
21 October 2025
Royal Navy veteran Jerry Bradley has been presented with a replacement beret and cap badge, decades after being medically discharged and losing his original memorabilia.
Jerry’s journey with the Royal Navy began on 14 October 1975, when he received his acceptance letter to join as a Chef. Originally planning to join the Merchant Navy, a chance visit to the Royal Navy recruitment office in Liverpool changed his course and launched a career that would see him travel the world in service to his country.
Following initial training at HMS Ganges, Jerry went on to complete cookery and catering training at HMS Pembroke. Despite suffering a serious head injury during training, his determination saw him successfully qualify and continue his service at HMS Nelson, HMS Achilles, HMS Ashanti, HMS Tartar, and HMS Berwick.
His career spanned operations in the Icelandic waters, Falkland Islands, Mediterranean, Norway, Persian Gulf, and West Indies, proudly supporting Royal Navy missions during the Cold War.
In 1987, while serving at HMS Heron, Jerry was involved in a serious road traffic accident which ultimately led to his medical discharge in 1991. Despite this life-changing event, Jerry has remained a proud Royal Navy veteran, continuing to attend Service events and support the veteran community.
I can’t thank you enough for organising this day for me. Receiving my beret again after all these years means more than words can say.
The presentation of his beret and badge was organised by Zoe Robson, Director and Founder of Maintain Independence Ltd, who has been working closely with Jerry.The symbolic return of these items marks a meaningful moment of pride and recognition for his years of loyal service.
Memorabilia collected during Jerry’s years in service includes items from HMS Bulldog, HMS Sultan, HMS Collingwood, HMS Challenger, and HMS Heron — each representing his dedication, professionalism, and contribution to the Royal Navy family.
Jerry, who was joined by family members, local dignitaries from east Cheshire and Lieutenant Antonio Valente from the Naval Regional Command at HMS Eaglet in Liverpool, said: “I can’t thank you enough for organising this day for me. Receiving my beret again after all these years means more than words can say.”
Zoe added: “Organising this special day for Jerry as a fellow veteran, and seeing him receive his beret, was a truly memorable moment.”