Story and photo by Richard Belbin
Sheffield Sea Cadets proudly held their first Royal Naval Parade on March 26th. Held at their new ‘training ship’ at the top of Rutland Road, the three groups of cadets (Junior Cadets, Sea Cadets and the Royal Marine Cadets), were joined by HM Lord Lieutenant, High Sheriff, Commander Bagot-Jewitt, Armed Forces Veterans, local dignitaries, community leaders and friends and families.
Following the opening inspection, all were entertained by the parade and performances from each troop – a song from the juniors, a spectacular drumming with illuminated drumsticks, and then a surprise attack by the Royal Marines.
Presentations were made to deserving cadets, including a gold medal for the senior girls football team, and to Cadet Thornhill who won the area photographic competition. There was also a special presentation to Chief Petty Officer Jack Martin, who received a fourth clasp to his Cadet Force Medal, marking 48 years’ service.
The Cadets are dedicated to training and teaching young people 10 to 18 years of age, learning a wide range of subjects including engineering, sailing, paddle sports, communications, orienteering and many more ‘life’ skills. Recently the Cadets have been out rock-climbing, sailing and supporting their local community, through clean up work with the Friends of Wardsend cemetery.
To find out more, drop in to the unit’s Falkland Training Centre at the top of Rutland Road, which is open Mondays and Thursdays from 7pm-9pm, or visit www.sea-cadets.org/sheffield/sea-cadets.
