Suffolk Army Cadet Force (ACF) and Westbourne Academy Combined Cadet Force (CCF) were immensely proud to be selected to take part in this year’s National Remembrance Parade in London.
Suffolk cadets were honoured to play a part in two of the nation’s most significant acts of remembrance – the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall and the National Remembrance commemorations at the Cenotaph in London.
The cadets arrived in London on Thursday 5th November, with rehearsals taking place under the expert eye of Company Sergeant Major L Smith, B Company.
Cadets were formed into ranks of six, ready to begin the drill phase. Although this was a different marching format from what many of our cadets were used to they adapted brilliantly, quickly understanding their roles and responsibilities.
On Saturday 7th November a group of Suffolk cadets provided front-of-house assistance for the Royal British Legion at the Festival of Remembrance, selling programmes and collecting donations. Dressed in their Formal Army Dress (FAD) uniforms, this was a completely new experience for many of them. They represented their organisations with real pride and professionalism, and received numerous positive comments from members of the public.
A particularly proud moment saw Cadet Cpl Osborne from Woodbridge Detachment carry the National ACF Banner, while Sgt R Costa carried the National CCF Banner during the Festival of Remembrance.
The cadets also had the opportunity to watch the performance itself, which proved to be an incredibly moving and memorable experience for everyone.
The highlight of the weekend for the entire group was undoubtedly the National Remembrance Parade at the Cenotaph. To stand alongside serving personnel, veterans and representatives from across the country, taking part in one of the most significant acts of remembrance, is an experience that will stay with our cadets for a lifetime. Every cadet involved demonstrated commitment, discipline and respect throughout the weekend.
Elsewhere in the county Suffolk cadets cadets sold poppies and attended Remembrance Sunday services and parades in their local communities.
Suffolk ACF is extremely proud of the efforts of all of its cadets and adult volunteers, especially those that attended the London weekend. None one of this is possible without the fantastic adult volunteers who give their time to create such worthwhile experiences for cadets.
