Page 46 - Cadet Review Autumn 2023

HSY ACF
DEPUTY SPEAKER VISITS C
COMPANY
By Captain Vicki Brooks
Doncaster's Member of Parliament, Dame Rosie Winterton, recently paid a visit to C Company where she was warmly welcomed by a musical performance from the Corps of Drums.
During her visit, Dame Rosie engaged in a productive conversation with the enthusiastic parading cadets, gaining insights into their experiences and aspirations within the Army Cadet Force and after school/college. Her commitment to engaging with the community was evident as she met with the OC C Company, Major Erica McCabe and the Deputy Commandant, Lieutenant Colonel Mike Smith, discussing the positive impact of the ACF has on our young people.
The highlight of the visit was when Dame
Rosie was honoured with the responsibility of presenting a commissioning scroll to Lieutenant Adam Fidment, recognising his dedication and achievements. Additionally, she had the privilege
of officially promoting Cadet Staff Sergeant Emily Allen to the position of Cadet Company Sergeant Major, a testament to her dedication, development and leadership skills. In the spirit of fostering open communication, Dame Rosie engaged in a two-way discussion with both the cadets and the adult volunteers. This exchange provided an opportunity for meaningful conversations about the benefits of the ACF, its role in shaping future leaders, and its contributions to the local community. While Dame Rosie was quizzed about her role in Parliament, and how she feels being a trailblazing female role model.
Her visit showcased her commitment to supporting initiatives that empower and educate young individuals. The event underscored the importance of youth organisations such as the ACF in nurturing skills, leadership qualities, and a strong sense of community among young people.
Dual appointment in first for
Doncaster cadet
By Captain Neil Bizzell
Danum Road Cadet Centre, the home of the Corps of Drums, recently played host to a group of distinguished guests.
The Deputy Commandant, Lieutenant Colonel Mike Smith, OC C Compamy, Major Erica McCabe, the Regimental Sergeant Major (RSMI) Rob Kirk, and C Company’s Company Sergeant Major (SMI) Mark Yeardley all arrived in a surprise visit. The purpose of such a group of visitors was revealed on final parade when a promotion was made, and it was a very important one; County Cadet Drum Major Rhys Phillips was promoted to the rank of Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major.
Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) is the highest rank achievable by a cadet and there is only one in each county. As county Cadet RSM he is now the most senior cadet. He will lead the county on parades and act as a key individual in the county, providing insight into the cadet experience to the Commandant and accompanying him at formal events.
This particular promotion is even more unique as it is the first time a cadet who also holds the appointment of Cadet County Drum Major has been promoted to Cadet RSM. A high achievement indeed as he has now reached the pinnacle in both music and the military side of cadets.
As County Cadet Drum Major he leads the Band and Corps of Drums on musical engagements. The Band, based in Hull and the Corps of Drums in Doncaster provide musical instruments and tuition (at no cost to the cadets and adult volunteers) alongside a core of Army Cadet Syllabus training. Cadets can choose to pursue a mainly musical route or also complete the military training and like cadet RSM Phillips participate in the 'green' side as well.
Major Erica McCabe said "RSM Phillips embodies everything it means to be a leader together with being a role model for all of our cadets. Nothing fazes him and has a can-do will-do attitude that we tend to only see in our adult instructors so to see that level of maturity and problem-solving ability in a cadet is just incredible. Rhys' talent in music is a credit to the county coupled with his "green" ability it is only something you can only wish for. As a company, we are all so very proud of everything he has achieved and his
now having this opportunity at a county level is wonderful."
Colonel Fred Owen, Commandant, said: "It was an absolute delight to
be able to recognise Rhys' effort and commitment with this
appointment. The role of Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major is a great responsibility and honour.
This is the first time as a county we have had a Drum Major also achieve
this accolade, I am sure RSM Phillips will be up to the challenge".
46 CADET REVIEW AUTUMN 2023