A woman from Warwick who grew up on the Forbes Estate has finished her time as the Station Warrant Officer at RAF Waddington after completing an impressive 35-year career with the Royal Air Force.

Following her education at Westgate, Newburgh, and Aylesford schools, WO Rees-Martin’s progression from her Warwick birthplace to reaching the highest non-commissioned rank at one of the RAF’s most prestigious bases demonstrates her commitment, professional standards, and determination. She began her forces career as a Logistics Supplier in March 1991, climbing through the ranks to become Station Warrant Officer at RAF Waddington, a role considered among the most senior positions available to warrant officers in the Royal Air Force.

During her time in uniform, she was posted to numerous bases across Britain and abroad, taking part in various overseas operational assignments while consistently displaying exceptional commitment and leadership qualities.

Her career highlights include receiving the Member of the Order of the British Empire in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours List.

This distinguished accolade recognised her exemplary service to the Royal Air Force and her valuable work for the Royal Air Forces Association.

In 2025, she additionally received the Meritorious Service Medal, which is granted for long, faithful, and meritorious service combined with excellent character and behaviour. The MSM is a rarely bestowed honour, with just 60 awarded to RAF personnel each year.

Having left a significant imprint on the Royal Air Force, WO Rees-Martin inspired many colleagues throughout her distinguished career. From her Warwick beginnings to her remarkable military service, WO Rees-Martin’s path showcases dedication, fortitude, and excellence.

WO Rees-Martin now lives in Lincoln with her husband Wyn, who previously served as an RAF Police officer. Their eldest child, Steffan, lives in the capital, while their youngest son, Corbyn, has followed in his parents’ footsteps by recently commencing his own RAF career at the Recruit Training Squadron at RAF Halton.

Reflecting on her forces career, WO Rees-Martin expressed feeling extremely privileged to be concluding her service as the Station Warrant Officer at RAF Waddington. While she noted she was very sad to be leaving, she felt that 35 years of service had been an amazing experience and that this position had been a wonderful way to end her career. She added that she now eagerly anticipates the new opportunities and challenges ahead. She also noted that her roots will always be in Warwick, where her elder brother Andrew still lives with his wife Jeanette in Hampton Magna.