Volunteer Cadet Corps Signs the Armed Forces Covenant aboard HMS Victory

The Volunteer Cadet Corps (VCC) has today (10 Feb 2026) formally signed the Armed Forces Covenant, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community and marking a significant milestone during its 125th anniversary year.

The signing ceremony took place in the Great Cabin of HMS Victory, Admiral Lord Nelson’s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar and one of the most enduring symbols of Royal Navy heritage.

The Covenant was signed by Rear Admiral Andrew Rose OBE, Director People & Training and Naval Secretary, on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, alongside Warrant Officer Class 2 Russ Piner RM, Commander VCC, signing on behalf of the Volunteer Cadet Corps.

The ceremony was attended by senior representatives from the Royal Navy Cadet Forces and the VCC, including:

• Capt Terry Tyack RN, Deputy Commander Royal Navy Cadet Forces
• Lt Cdr Ross Duncan RN, SO2 VCC Royal Navy Cadet Forces
• WO2 Russ Piner RM, Commander VCC
• Maj (VCC) Louis Colpitts, Deputy Commander VCC
• Lt Cdr (VCC) Rodger Mills, First Lieutenant
• Captain (VCC) Gaz Langworthy, Adjutant and Head of Training
• Lieutenant (VCC) Duncan Ellis, Head of Training
• Cadet Colour Sergeant Arthur Westmorland, First Sea Lord Cadet from Band of Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps Gosport
• Leading Cadet Rosie Auckland, First Sea Lord Cadet from HMS Collingwood Royal Naval Volunteer Cadet Corps

The Armed Forces Covenant represents a national commitment to ensure that those who serve, have served, and their families are treated fairly and without disadvantage arising from their service.

As the VCC reflects on 125 years of service, heritage and contribution, the anniversary also marks a clear point of transition. The Corps is entering a period of significant modernisation, with the aim of professionalising its adult volunteer workforce, strengthening governance and assurance, and enhancing the overall cadet experience in line with modern expectations and Defence standards.

WO2 Russ Piner, Commander VCC said:

“The Volunteer Cadet Corps continues to play an important role in developing young people through the values of the Armed Forces. Signing the Armed Forces Covenant aboard HMS Victory reflects both the VCC’s proud history and its commitment to evolve for the future.”

Maj (VCC) Louis Colpitts, Deputy Commander VCC, added:

“Our 125th anniversary is a moment to honour those who came before us, but it is also about setting the conditions for the future. This transformation will ensure the Volunteer Cadet Corps remains relevant, professional and capable of delivering the best possible experience for cadets and volunteers alike.”

The signing of the Armed Forces Covenant underscores the VCC’s enduring commitment to its people and its continued alignment with Defence as it looks ahead to its next chapter.

As the Volunteer Cadet Corps enters its 125th year, it stands as a living legacy of commitment, service and youth empowerment – proud of its past and focused on inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.

Those interested in joining as cadets, or volunteering to support this historic organisation, are warmly encouraged to visit www.volunteercadetcorps.org to learn more about the VCC’s proud past, vibrant present and exciting future.

All images credit to: WeAreWolfCreative