Page 7 - Cadet Review Autumn 2024

HONOURING HEROES: CADETS JOIN
FORCES WITH THE VICTORIA CROSS
TRUST TO MAP WAR GRAVES
By Captain Vicki Brooks
In an heartwarming demonstration of respect and dedication, 22 cadets and adult volunteers from C Company, together with a contingent from the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, have embarked on a significant project in collaboration with the Victoria Cross Trust (VCT).
Over a year in planning, between HSY ACF and the VCT this initiative aims to map and document the war graves around the county footprint ensuring the sacrifices of fallen heroes are remembered and preserved for future generations as a pilot scheme which will hopefully be adopted around the UK.
The group met at Adwick Cemetery, for the first session of the project, where they were briefed by representatives of the VCT, on how to record the headstones, their condition and plot their location utilising the innovative geolocation tool What Three Words. They cross-referenced the precise locations against the records of the VCT had, to ensure accuracy. Using What Three Words allowed the cadets to pinpoint exact grave sites with remarkable precision, facilitating the identification of any discrepancies between the records and the actual locations.
The cadets were tasked with assessing the condition of the headstones, noting any damage
or wear that may have occurred over time. They checked for signs of erosion, vandalism, or natural decay, documenting their findings to assist the VCT in planning necessary restoration and cleaning efforts. However, their mission extends beyond the physical mapping and inspection of the graves. Demonstrating impressive research skills, the cadets will further delve into the histories of those laid to rest at Adwick Cemetery; unearthing stories of valour and sacrifice, piecing together the lives of the servicemen and women whose final resting places they were honouring. This research was not merely academic; it was a poignant journey into the past, bringing to life the narratives of courage that defined a generation.
The finale of the mapping session will be a special presentation, where the cadets will share their findings and insights. This event, scheduled for later
In every grave mapped,
in every headstone documented, and in
every story researched, the cadets have brought the past into the present
in the year, will be headed up by South Yorkshire Deputy Lieutenant, Major Adrian Hunt and other specially invited guests. During the presentation, the cadets will showcase the stories they have uncovered, providing a fitting tribute to the war heroes and recording information to be kept for future generations – so we can remember them.
Head of Engagement for HSY ACF, Major John Lomas, said: “This project has been a long time in
the planning, to ensure we have it right. Not only preserving the memory of those who served but
also to give the cadets an opportunity learning vital skills and gaining a deep appreciation for our history." He went on to say: “The project emphasizes the importance of remembrance. By engaging in such hands-on historical preservation, the cadets from
C Company and the Royal Air Force Air Cadets are ensuring that the sacrifices of those who fought for their country are not forgotten”.
Major Erica McCabe – Officer Commanding C company said: “In every grave mapped, in every headstone documented, and in every story researched, the cadets have brought the past into the present, creating a bridge of remembrance that both honours and educates. The efforts of the cadets is testament to the enduring respect this will instil in the ACF. My gratitude goes out to them for their hard work in the community, and I look forward to working with them on the presentations for the autumn.”
Deputy Lieutenant, Major Adrian Hunt, said: “As the Lead Deputy Lieutenant for the cadets of South Yorkshire I heard of this project through Doncaster's Armed Forces Covenant Board. The project as I see
it is a fantastic opportunity for all cadets. This is a trail, and with the support of the Victoria Cross Trust, a Doncaster based charity, there is scope for rolling out across South Yorkshire Cadet Forces and maybe wider. Having listened to cadets and staff they believe this is a first, the different cadet services have come together, worked collaboratively and in partnership with each other.” He went on to say “Remembering the fallen is of huge importance, this project provides the links, allowing research, ownership and a lasting history. Through this interaction the cadets will gain a greater understanding of the sacrifices and become the guardians of Remembrance for years to come.”
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