Army cadet hero recognised for his award-winning courage with quick thinking after bus accident

The teenager's quick thinking and medical expertise, gained through his Army Cadet training, proved vital in both incidents where ambulance response was delayed.

During the incident, Bond - aged 17 at the time - was returning from an Army Cadet event when his bus made an emergency stop, causing two middle-aged passengers to fall in the aisle.

The couple suffered serious injuries including lacerations, head injuries, bruising and spinal fractures.

Bond immediately took control, applying pressure to wounds and ensuring the casualties remained still to prevent further injury.

With ambulance services delayed, he arranged for the bus driver to take them directly to hospital, staying with the injured passengers until paramedics took over their care.

In a separate incident last year, Bond demonstrated his lifesaving skills when he witnessed an elderly man fall into a gate post, sustaining a severe head wound.

The young cadet immediately administered first aid, applying pressure to the wound before dressing it.

With no ambulances available, Bond continued treating the casualty while his mother drove them to the local hospital.

He remained with the elderly man until hospital staff took over treatment.

Brigadier Gary Mcdade praised Joshua's actions in a hand-written letter: "On two occasions, you've stepped up, taken control of stressful situations and made a real difference."

"You are an outstanding example of all that is good about Army Cadets," the Brigadier added.

Bond is one of nearly 40,000 young people learning lifesaving first aid skills through the Army Cadets.

The organisation provides essential training for young people aged 12 to 17, preparing them to handle stressful situations, accidents and emergencies.

The organisation continues to provide an inclusive environment where young people can develop essential life skills and experience unique opportunities.