SEVEN months supporting peace efforts in Afghanistan has come to an end for Isle of Wight naval officer, Rachel Smallwood MBE, who said receiving the County Press in the post every week had been a highlight while she was away. The 44-year-old commander has returned to Ryde with an American medal in recognition of her outstanding efforts serving with US Forces, having “worked her socks off” in Kabul. The Royal Navy says her time in Afghanistan has left its mark on the country’s defence and security forces, making them more effective and better value for money, as well as training political advisers.