Sea cadets from across Cornwall came together in Cornish maritime town of Falmouth today to thank all the service men and women who serve or have served our country.
Some 150 sea cadets and royal marines cadets aged 10 to 18 joined other cadets forces to thank all the individuals who are part of the Armed Forces family by taking part in a spectacular military parade through the streets of Falmouth, alongside regular and reserve personnel from all three services and our veterans. The South West Area band of Sea Cadets provided musical entertainment for the day.
The event held in Falmouth today took centre stage for the whole UK in showing support for our Armed Forces community, with an action-packed programme of events and activities, including free concerts as well as flying displays and fireworks over Falmouth Bay.
TS Jack Petchey – a Sea Cadets offshore power training vessel that gives young people the chance to experience nautical adventure and fun – was also brought into Falmouth Harbour for this significant occasion.
“I am proud to be involved with the Armed Forces Day, it is an extremely important day for retired and serving military people and their families,” said First Class Cadet Joshua (aged 14) from the local Falmouth and Penryn Sea Cadets Unit.
These celebrations are particularly close to Joshua’s heart, since his own father, Billy, has been a member of the Royal Navy for the last 33 years.
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“Seeing my dad in his uniform makes me proud…going to visit him in the different places he has worked has made me interested in the military because I have grown up with it,” Joshua explains.
Joshua joined Sea Cadets two years ago, when he was 12. He has gained sailing, First Aid, Marine Engineering and Camp Craft qualifications during this time.
“Sea Cadets has already given me opportunities to learn many new skills and values for life including self-discipline, leadership and teamwork,” Joshua said.
“I am so pleased that Josh enjoys Sea Cadet as much as he does,” said Joshua’s dad, Billy. “I am proud of him for many reasons but his desire to be involved in all that is on offer makes me super proud."
"He is making new friends and learning new skills and has grown into a fine young man since joining Sea Cadets. He is using his spare time positively and I know this will serve him well throughout his life. I am looking forward to spending this Armed Forces Day with Josh, his sister, Abi, and his mum, Tracey.”
Captain Sea Cadets, Captain Neil Downing RN said: “Sea Cadets is extremely proud to play a part in celebrating and honouring everyone in the Armed Forces family: from the veterans who have contributed so much to our freedom and way of life, to the current personnel who provide such dedicated service around the world."
"They have been the backbone of our country for centuries and act as role models for our cadets, demonstrating the values of courage, commitment, respect and loyalty. We hope they feel appreciated and valued as we pay tribute to them today.”
Sea Cadets units across the UK have been involved in Armed Forces Day celebrations across the country, including in Northern Ireland earlier this month.
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