Page 41 - Cadet Review Spring 2023

Mirfield celebrates
Remembrance Day
in force
Now no longer hindered by the constraints of the Covid-19 pandemic, along with towns and cities across the country it was business as usual in the small Yorkshire town of Mirfield for Remembrance Day, where they hold what is reputedly one of the largest parades in country.
Because of the possibility that the reputation of such a large event could pose a very real danger of terrorist related activities, thorough security precautions were in place on the day and an observable police presence helped to ensure that everybody was kept safe.
The parade was, as usual, held in the afternoon,
so as not to clash with the neighbouring parades in Dewsbury and Huddersfield. Thousands of supporters took to the streets to support the parade through the streets and service held at the town’s War Memorial in Ings Grove Park. Among those marching were
civic dignitaries, veterans, serving members of the armed forces, and some members of the public, including a very strong representation of the youth of
Everyone’s turn-out was excellent and our standard bearers did a splendid job
community: scouts, guides, cubs and brownies and of course cadets from 868 (Mirfield) Squadron out
in force, led by Squadron Leader Felicia Nordoff and supported by their Squadron band and also providing standard bearers for the Union Standard, the Royal British Legion the Normandy Veteran’s Association and themselves. Another two cadets took the role
of 'tail-end charlies' marking the rear of the parade carrying giant poppies.
Ian Grange, the local Royal British Legion chaplain, presided over the memorial service and was supported by 868 Squadron’s own chaplain Christine Shedd. During the service commemorative wreaths were laid by Deputy Lieutenant Iqbal Bhana, parlia- mentary representative Mark Eastwood MP, and Councillor Vivien Lees Hamilton, Mayor of Mirfield, and they were followed by representatives of the armed forces and all major community groups.
After the service the parade reformed and marched back through the town to the applause of onlookers, and a salute was taken by the Deputy Lieutenant; it took several minutes for the entire parade to pass by.
Following the parade, Squadron Commander Flight Lieutenant Peter Doubell commented: “I was very pleased and proud of our cadets today, everyone’s turn-out was excellent and our standard bearers did a splendid job.”
POPPY
COLLECTING
IN BARNSLEY
For three Saturdays in October, cadets and staff of 148 (Barnsley) Squadron assisted the Barnsley Branch of the Royal British Legion with the Poppy Appeal in Barnsley Town Centre.
All the cadets were a credit to themselves and the Squadron. Despite the at times poor weather, the cadets were high spirited throughout the day and respectful to members of the public.
The wearing of a poppy commemorates and pays respect to all members of the Armed Forces both past and present who have sacrificed their life and currently for the freedom of future generations.
Well done to everyone who participat- ed over the preceding three weekends to Remembrance Day.
CADET REVIEW SPRING 2023 41