Woking Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets took part in the annual US Memorial Day Ceremony at the Brookwood American Cemetery on 25 May – their first time attending this important American tradition. Memorial Day is dedicated to remembering those who died while serving in the military, and being part of it was a significant experience for our cadets.
Able Cadet Austin summed up how everyone felt: “It was a privilege to be able to attend to honour those who have given so much to defend our freedoms.”
The ceremony took place at the Brookwood American Cemetery, dedicated in 1937 and located within the grounds of the Brookwood Military Cemetery in Surrey. Our cadets joined with US Air Force and British Army personnel, all under the guidance of Colonel Diaz from the US Air Force, who helped prepare everyone for what would be a formal ceremony.
Leading Cadet Cameron explained the interesting challenge they faced: “We realised we needed to quickly learn some of the US drill commands and movements, but fortunately they weren’t too different from ours! Colonel Diaz gave us some practice.” It was fascinating to see how military traditions work across different countries – there are more similarities than differences, and the experience gave everyone valuable insight into international military cooperation.
The ceremony was deeply moving and respectful, with numerous wreaths being laid by important dignitaries. The US Ambassador to the UK was there, along with the Lord Lieutenant of Surrey, plus representatives from US and UK Armed Services. What made it particularly special was seeing military representatives from Australia, Canada, France, and Germany all present, alongside various veterans’ groups – everyone coming together to pay their respects.
Our cadets experienced proper Memorial Day traditions, including the moments of silence and formal military honours like the playing of Taps and the Firing Party. For most of them, this was their first real experience of how different countries honour their fallen soldiers, and it clearly made a strong impression. For many of the young participants, this was their first exposure to such a significant multi-national military ceremony.
Having Woking Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets at this ceremony demonstrates how important these organizations are for teaching young people about military history and why remembrance matters. Being there wasn’t just about honouring those who died – it was about showing that these values and traditions continue from one generation to the next.
This was the first time our cadets had attended the US Memorial Day Ceremony, but it won’t be the last. It’s now going to be an annual tradition, which means more young people will get to experience this kind of international cooperation and understand why it’s so important to remember those who served.
