Wiltshire ACF at Arnhem 2025
Cadets and CFAVs from across the county joined over 30,000 people from around the world for the 78th Airborne Wandeltocht—the world’s largest one-day commemorative march, honouring the heroes of Arnhem 1944
Traveling to Harskamp via coach & Ferry a few days prior to the march.
Day 1 – Battlefield tours
- Paying tribute at the Dropzones and Glider Pilot Memorial
- Investigating the Railway Culvert at Wolfheze and retracing the advance toward the bridges
- Visiting the Hartenstein Museum to uncover the untold stories of airborne forces
- Exploring Saint Elizabeth Hospital and gaining insight into the life-and-death struggles faced by wounded soldiers
- Unraveling the hidden narratives of Urquhart House
- Standing on the historic John Frost Bridge, where significant events unfolded
Our knowledgeable tour guides, Lt Yuill and Officer Cdt Yuill, skillfully brought the story of Arnhem to life.
Day 2- Arnhem Oosterbeek War Cemetery
Day 2, our cadets stood in solemn remembrance at the Arnhem Oosterbeek War Cemetery—a site rich with history and sacrifice. Under the Dutch sky, surrounded by 1,764 souls who rest from the Battle of Arnhem, they felt the profound significance of legacy and loss.
As they walked among the rows of white headstones—some bearing names, others inscribed with “Known Unto God”—the cadets were deeply touched by the magnitude of Operation Market Garden and the bravery of those who fought for freedom. The silence was profound, and the emotions were palpable.
Each cadet carried themselves with dignity, compassion, and a maturity that belied their years. They are a true credit to the United Kingdom, the Army Cadet Force, and—most importantly—to themselves. Their behavior exemplified the values we cherish: respect, remembrance, and responsibility.
Many cadets laid crosses as a tribute and sought connections to their hometowns—some even delving into research to learn more about those who never returned home. This was not merely a visit; it was a profound lesson in humanity.
One such cadet was Cdt Sgt Brown.
A Profound Connection to Arnhem for Cadet Sergeant Brown
Cadet Sergeant Brown shares a deeply personal bond with Arnhem, as her great-uncle, Flight Engineer Sergeant Albert Thomas Riley, sacrificed his life during World War II. While traversing the Arnhem battlefields, she gathered the courage to pay her respects at his final resting place, standing where history was etched in sacrifice.
On January 3, 1943, at 17:32, Sgt Riley and his crew from RAF 9 Squadron took off from RAF Waddington, heading for a raid over Essen. Tragically, their Lancaster Bomber was shot down by a Luftwaffe night fighter, resulting in the loss of all seven souls aboard that fateful winter night.
- Four members of the RAF Volunteer Reserve rest together in the General Cemetery Heiderhurst, honoured by a memorial lovingly placed by the local Dutch community.
- The three Canadian crew members are interred in the Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery.
For Sergeant Brown, that quiet moment at the graveside was more than a mere pilgrimage—it served as a bridge between the past and the present, reminding her that each step of the Arnhem March carries the weight and grace of those who have gone before us.
Our cadets departed changed—not only by what they observed but also by what they felt.
March Day
March Day Magic in Oosterbeek!
Saturday, 6th September 2025
Today, our remarkable Wiltshire Army Cadets laced up their boots to join over 30,000 walkers from around the globe for the 78th Airborne Wandeltocht—the largest one-day commemorative march in the world, paying tribute to the heroes of Arnhem 1944.
From the moment we set off at Sportpark Hartenstein, the atmosphere was charged with pride, remembrance, and unity. Cadets marched alongside veterans, international teams, and local communities—each step serving as a tribute to bravery and sacrifice.
Highlights of the Day
- Cadets proudly donned their berets and badges, representing Wiltshire with distinction
- Touching emotional moments
- Exchanging mementos and stickers!
- Cheers and applause greeted our cadets as they passed the Airborne Museum
- Medals were earned, memories were created, and friendships blossomed across borders
This was more than just a march—it was a living legacy. A day when history walked alongside us, and our young leaders carried it forward with strength and respect.
Arnhem March Finale: Pride, Salutes, and Celebrations!
A Moment of Triumph
What an exhilarating experience as our cadets returned to the arena, led by the band, each step greeted with thunderous applause and cheers. The smiles, the lifted chins, and the unity in every stride—pure pride and accomplishment shone through each individual.
Well-Deserved Downtime
Following the march, our heroes enjoyed some well-earned relaxation. Many indulged in Dutch snacks, cooled off with ice creams, and toasted with refreshing drinks, as laughter resonated throughout the grounds.
Parade at the Airborne Memorial
Our cadets then stood proudly beneath the soaring tower of the memorial. The Commandant led the parade, expressing gratitude for their dedication and reminding everyone of the purpose behind their march: to honour history, build character, and create a meaningful impact in the world.
Honours and Mementos
The highlight of the day was the Colonel presenting each cadet with three cherished keepsakes:
- A commemorative medal for each march they’ve completed
- An impressive, exclusive new badge—an emblem of distinction worn solely by our cadets
- A personalised walking card to record the date and distance of every future adventure
A heartfelt thank you to every cadet for your determination, camaraderie, and spirit. We celebrated not just the conclusion of a march, but the beginning of countless proud memories. Onward together!
