Kim Hughes GC

Warrant Officer Class 1 Kim Hughes GC is a British Army bomb disposal expert who became only the 74th living recipient of the George Cross for his extraordinary acts carried out in the Afghanistan conflict.

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During his deployment in Afghanistan he risked his own life to save the lives of his comrades, foregoing protective clothing and defusing bombs manually in what has been described as the single most outstanding act of explosive ordnance disposal ever recorded in Afghanistan.

After safely disarming 120 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during his tour of Afghanistan Hughes was award the George Cross by the Head of the Defence Staff Sir Jock Stirrup in March 2010, a ceremony which also saw Staff Sergeant Olaf Schmid recognised with the posthumous GC.

Hughes' selfless acts of bravery were recognised in his citation read to the audience at Buckingham Palace.

"Dealing with any form of IED is dangerous. To deal with seven Victim Operated IEDs linked in a single circuit, in a mass casualty scenario, using manual neutralisation techniques once, never mind three times, is the single most outstanding act of explosive ordnance disposal ever recorded in Afghanistan."

Kim is a naturally inspiring speaker, combining his remarkable story, exceptional skill-set and knowledge of how to succeed in the toughest of working environments. Kim is an authority on teamwork, leadership, bravery and strategy allowing him to articulate his story in a manner that can motivate, guide and inspire a business audience.

Kim's fearless approach to what is undoubtedly some of the most dangerous work in the world makes him a superb speaker, something that is highlighted by his attitude to the formidable challenge of his work; "It's tough out there - it's a war zone. But it's my job. That's what I am paid to do."

 

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