Distinguished former Royal Marines Lieutenant General Sir James Dutton KCB, CBE, KStJ, returns to King’s

It was a great honour to welcome former pupil James Dutton back to King’s on Friday 2 November. His visit had a dual purpose, the first of which was to enable Headmaster George Hartley to present him with his Alumni Leading Light award. The award was given in recognition of his exceptional 37-year career in the Royal Marines and his continued links to the school.

Sir James (who is happy to be addressed as ‘Jim’) held various command and staff positions early on in his military career, before commanding 40 Commando of the Royal Marines. As a brigadier, he held two high-level staff posts—the first at the Ministry of Defence in London, as Director of NATO policy, and the second as the British liaison to the Pentagon, shortly after the September 11 attacks. This role involved assisting in planning operations in Afghanistan and early conceptual work for the invasion of Iraq.

In 2003 he led 3 Commando Brigade into Iraq as the invasion commenced and was the only British military leader to command US Forces since the Second World War –  albeit for 96 hours (which was the plan before the US marines moved north)!

Jim’s visit also provided a great opportunity to meet with 20 current Lower and Upper Sixth CCF cadets, who were awe-struck! He discussed his current civilian role, working for world-leading engineering firm Bechtel and how he felt that the skills and abilities gained throughout his military career, namely discipline, self-control and determination were transferable and very valuable for a multitude of other careers.

When asked by one cadet what he was most proud of, he reflected and said that it was probably his contribution in Iraq and the removal of Saddam Hussein.

As a fitting end to his visit Jim was asked to present CCF Cadet Max Wood with a Certificate for completing the week-long Master Cadet Course at Frimley Park in Surrey – only opened up to CCF cadets this year. Max did really well and more than held his own against Army Cadets, who meet much more frequently than King’s CCF members. He was delighted and will undoubtedly be adding the photo to his social media accounts – or photo album!