A group of South East cadets were given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity on 5 November, attending a special reception at 10 Downing Street to mark Remembrance.
The cadets joined military personnel, veterans and their families at the Prime Minister’s residence, where they had the opportunity to meet and speak with those who have served in the Armed Forces, including Chelsea Pensioners and the Chief of the Defence Staff. A particular highlight was the opportunity for the cadets to meet the Prime Minister himself, discussing their experiences in the Cadet Forces and their future aspirations. The reception provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on the importance of Remembrance and recognise the service and sacrifices made by generations of Armed Forces personnel.
For the cadets, the day was made even more memorable with a tour of the Household Cavalry stables and Horse Guards, where they explored the history and traditions of the Household Cavalry and saw some fascinating historical artefacts.
Cadet Petty Officer, Jamie Gunn from Maidstone Grammar School Combined Cadet Force, reflected on the experience: “On the 5th of November, myself and three other senior cadets were invited to a reception to mark Remembrance Day at 10 Downing Street. We were told very little about what was going to happen during this event and as we had never been given this opportunity before, all of us were definitely curious about what a reception at the home of the Prime Minister actually entailed.
When we arrived at 10 Downing Street it became clear that this event was for military service personnel, veterans and their families. We got the chance to speak with a number of people, including a Chelsea Pensioner who told us about his extraordinary life serving in the army and how even though he is in his late eighties he is still playing touch rugby. Fortunately, we were not the only cadets who had been invited in this reception. We spoke with others about our different experiences being part of a Combined Cadet Force along with our future aspirations whether that being in the military or other fields in industry.
However, the most memorable part of the afternoon was that all of the cadets got the opportunity to talk with the Prime Minister himself, making sure to ask him about why more money wasn’t being put towards cadet services. This was amazing, and was something we were joking about rather than expecting it to actually happen. The entire experience was incredible, to say that we got to speak with the Prime Minister feels very surreal. I am sure that all of the cadets present would agree that it was the most defining moment of our time in cadets. To be in a place so embedded in this country’s history, celebrating the service of veterans and the sacrifices they have made for us, was truly an honour. I will remember this day for the rest of my life.”
Cadet Sergeant Major Josie Manney from King’s School Canterbury Combined Cadet Force, also shared her reflections: “It was such an honour to have the opportunity to represent the CCF at 10 Downing Street at a special event to mark the start of Remembrance Week. It felt such a privilege to be in a room with so many veterans and members of the current armed forces including the Chief of Defence Staff. We enjoyed talking to Chelsea pensioners about their time in the army and the importance of Remembrance Sunday to them. The Prime Minister speech emphasized the importance of remembering those who served and the sacrifices made by his great-grandfather and others in the past. He was very kind with his time after his speech, taking time to talk about our experiences in the cadets. We also got to meet Larry, the famous Downing Street cat!
Afterwards, we were lucky to get a tour of the Household Cavalry stables and Horse Guards including some extraordinary historical artefacts such as the desk where the Munich Agreement was negotiated. Remembering those who have lost their lives in armed conflict is very important to me as each week I volunteer leading a ceremony in Canterbury Cathedral remembering members of the Princess of Wales Royal Regiment. I was so proud to be invited to the event, and it is truly an experience that will stick with me forever. It has been the highlight of my cadet career so far, and it feels amazing to be able to say I was a part of this important national event. All the cadets are hugely grateful to SERFCA arranging our invitations to attend the event.”
Major (CCF) Alistair Goddard, Contingent Commander at King’s School Canterbury Combined Cadet Force, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity: “Thank you so very much for including us in the event. It was such an incredible day for the cadets, which we combined with a tour of the Household Cavalry stables and Horseguards. It was one of those once in a lifetime events for the kids, which only being a cadet can deliver. I am very grateful for the incredible opportunity.”
The visit was a fantastic opportunity for the cadets to meet those who have served, learn more about the Armed Forces and reflect on the importance of Remembrance. Most importantly, it provided an experience that will stay with them long after their time in the Cadet Forces.
CCF units in schools give young people the life skills and self-confidence to take charge of their lives so they can reach their full potential at school and beyond, including in employment. Each CCF is formed of sections from one or more of the Royal Navy/Royal Marines, Army or the Royal Air Force.