Jonathan Carley, a former history teacher, has been fined £500 after admitting to wearing a Royal Navy officer’s uniform without authorization. The 65-year-old ex-Cheltenham College teacher sparked suspicion among veterans due to discrepancies in his attire and medals.
Police officers visited Carley’s home on Monday following reports of a fake Royal Navy officer. Upon arrival, they found a pristine military uniform, medals, and a ceremonial sword — items that initially triggered doubts among those familiar with naval regalia.
Carley, who had been seen laying wreaths and saluting the war memorial at a Remembrance Day event last November in Llandudno, wore a uniform suggesting he held the rank of Rear Admiral — the Navy’s third highest rank. However, Rear Admiral Dr. Chris Parry, a seasoned naval veteran, became suspicious of Carley’s Distinguished Service Order (DSO) medal and sword.
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“The DSO is one of the highest honors and is rarely awarded,” Parry told the BBC. “You’re eight ranks up and two down from the head of the Navy. Such medals are easily recognizable to those experienced in the service.”
Carley’s use of the uniform and medals, many of which were reportedly purchased online, raised questions about their authenticity. Photographers and attendees noted inconsistencies, including improper stitching and incorrect uniform length. Tony Mottram, a Territorial Army member and Royal Air Force worker, observed that Carley’s uniform did not meet parade standards during the 2025 Remembrance Sunday service.
“This isn’t just about wearing a uniform,” Mottram noted. “The details matter — from the way the jacket is hemmed to how the medals are displayed.”
Police charged Carley under a 19th-century law outlawing unauthorized wear of military uniforms. He is reportedly the eighth person in the UK charged with this offence in the past decade.
In an interview, Carley admitted he wore the uniform seeking a “sense of belonging and affirmation.” After his teaching career, he later worked at Christ Church College, University of Oxford, as a rowing coach.
His case highlights the sensitivity surrounding military uniforms and honors, especially among veterans who recognize and respect genuine service.