UPDATE: Over 82,000 Armed Forces cadets are actively honoring Britain’s fallen heroes today on Armistice Day. The impressive turnout reflects a deep commitment from young people to remember those who sacrificed for the nation’s freedoms.
This year, more than 136,500 cadets from the Army, Air Force, and Royal Navy have participated in commemorative parades, showcasing their dedication to the UK’s military past. Lorraine Kelly, ITV star and National Honorary Colonel in the Army Cadet Force, praised the cadets as the “future leaders” of Britain. “The cadets on parade this Armistice Day are the pride of our nation,” she stated, emphasizing their role as guardians of remembrance.
The Ministry of Defence highlighted that the substantial involvement of cadets demonstrates their commitment to service and community. Their disciplined parades are not just a display of tradition but also a testament to the evolution and modernization of cadet forces, which aim to equip young people with essential life skills.
To bolster this commitment, the UK government has announced plans to increase the number of cadets by 30 percent—an addition of 41,000 young people—by 2030. This initiative includes a funding uplift of £70 million to enhance accessibility and broaden opportunities for cadets across the UK, particularly in STEM fields.
The significance of cadet involvement was underscored during the recent Army Cadet STEM Camp in Dorset, where over 300 cadets participated to explore how cadet training can bolster educational and career prospects. A study from the University of Northampton reveals that cadets show improved resilience, attendance, and academic performance.
On this solemn day, Defence Minister for Veterans and People Louise Sandher-Jones MP remarked, “It is brilliant to see so many cadets join serving personnel and veterans to pay tribute to those who fought and died for our freedoms.” She highlighted that joining the cadets opens doors to new experiences and skills for many young people.
In a powerful reflection, Imogen Rowlands, a 17-year-old cadet from Llandudno, shared her thoughts after marching at the Cenotaph. “Marching at the Cenotaph makes me appreciate my life and what others, including my own family, have sacrificed,” she said. Her words resonate with the core purpose of today’s commemorations—recognizing the sacrifices made for freedom.
The Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton, stated, “Remembrance reconnects the country with our Armed Forces.” The active participation of cadets in remembrance events showcases the strong bond between the military and the communities it serves, reinforcing the nation’s values and security.
The cadet forces are also seeking to recruit more adult volunteers who play a crucial role in supporting and training cadets. This initiative comes as part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance community engagement with the Armed Forces.
Today’s events, including parades occurring across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, not only honor the past but also lay a foundation for future generations. The remarkable turnout of cadets signifies a commitment to preserving the legacy of those who served, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
As Armistice Day unfolds, the contributions of these young cadets are a poignant reminder of the importance of remembrance and the values they represent for the future of the nation.
