A man pretending to be an admiral responded with “I’ve been waiting for you” when confronted by authorities for wearing a naval uniform without authorization at a Remembrance Sunday event, according to court proceedings today. Jonathan Carley, 65, residing in Harlech, Gwynedd, confessed that he wore the uniform in search of a feeling of inclusion. However, magistrates in Llandudno criticized his actions when he faced charges for donning a uniform bearing the insignia of His Majesty’s Forces unlawfully.
Carley was reported to have worn the unauthorized uniform during the Remembrance Sunday event in Llandudno on November 9. He informed the police that the naval uniform had been legitimately issued to him during his time in the cadets.
Despite his claims, Carley had embellished the uniform by adding rear admiral rings through a tailor and purchasing medals online. District Judge Gwyn Jones imposed a £500 fine on Carley, along with a requirement to pay £85 towards prosecution costs and a £200 surcharge. The judge expressed disappointment, stating, “It’s regrettable that you chose to act in such a manner on a day of great significance for many.” James Neary, the prosecutor, revealed that during the well-attended service, Carley wore medals for service in Iraq and Syria, approaching event organizers to introduce himself.
Reportedly, Carley was permitted to lay a wreath during the event, saluting and standing alongside other dignitaries. Following the event, a photo of him went viral on social media, leading to his arrest on November 14, where he allegedly told the police, “I’ve been expecting you.”
During questioning, Carley expressed his desire for a sense of “belonging and validation.” Records in the London Gazette indicated that he was commissioned as a 2nd Lt (on Probation) in the reserves, his name appearing in July 1991.
Carley had also claimed to have studied at prestigious institutions like Oxford University and Harvard before teaching at Eton, where notable figures including Princes William and Harry, Boris Johnson, and David Cameron were students. Police conducted investigations after his social media photo gained traction.