Wisbech Armed Forces Day on 18th June was another occasion for us to show our fantastic cadets to the general public, and get them recruiting and promoting our organisation at every opportunity.
Wisbech Armed Forces Day
Our Cadets in the Community.
The cadets and recruitment stand.
Thousands of people turned out in Sunday’s sunshine for the annual event, which was held in the town park and included stalls, music, refreshments, afternoon tea, and much more. Attractions included a replica of the iconic World War II Spitfire for people to admire.
The day started at 10am with a flag raising ceremony which included a representative from the Sea, Army, Air and Police Cadets, along with the Girls Venture Corps.
Cadets with Colonel Knight & Mayoress of Wisbech.
Cadets from Wisbech Detachment, under SSI Dave Gagen, manned a stall to showcase what the local cadet detachment had to offer. This included a display of military radio and communications equipment, a laser shooting range, and uniform and kit. They also promoted the newly opened National Army Cadet Force Museum located in the nearby Octavia Hill Birthplace House. Octavia Hill was the pioneer of the modern day ACF when she established a unit in 1889. To help promote the museum, Wisbech Detachment displayed posters and a mannequin in 1940s battledress to represent a cadet of that era. The cadets also walked around the site, taking part in the activities, handing out ACF wristbands, and speaking to members of the public about the ACF.
SMI Lyddiat being awarded his Warant certificate.
SMI Pete Lyddiatt was awarded his Warant certificate by Colonel (Retd) Mark Knight MBE DL, and the Mayoress of Wisbech. The cadets were inspected by Colonel Knight, The Mayor of Wisbech, The Chair of Fenland District Council, and Flt Lt Rob Chappell from RAF Marham. This was followed by a march past, salute and flag lowering service.
Inspection by Colonel Knight.
Organisers Jan and Ray Hutchinson commented; ‘Thank you very much for attending and for your participation. The young people were a credit to your unit, to the town of Wisbech, and themselves.’
Inspection by the Mayor.
Detachment Commander SSI Gagen commented; ‘Well done to all who attended – this is what Cadet in the Community is all about. You did us proud and should take pride in what you achieved.’
Text by Col (Retd) Mark Knight MBE DL, with SI Doug Stuart, and with thanks to SSI David Gagen. Photos by Major (Retd) Trevor Longmuir, SMI Pete Lyddiatt and SSI David Gagen.