Mark and I had a lovely morning in Trafalgar Square today, attending the Sea Cadets’ annual Trafalgar Day Parade. The weather was glorious, the setting beneath Nelson’s Column could hardly have been more appropriate, and the young people taking part were a credit to themselves and their organisations.
I’ve had a long association with Sea Cadets and was attending as one of the charity’s National Vice Presidents, so it was particularly pleasing to see some 400 cadets from across the country coming together for the occasion.
The parade commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar, fought on 21 October 1805, when Nelson’s fleet defeated the combined French and Spanish navies. Nelson himself was mortally wounded, but his victory remains an important part of Britain’s naval history.
More than two centuries later, the traditions continue, although for me the real stars of today’s event were the young people.
We enjoyed some excellent physical training displays, including club swinging, hornpipe dancing and skipping, followed by a terrific performance from the Massed Bands of the Sea Cadet Corps. The standard of drill, music and ceremonial precision was impressive.
Rear Admiral Rachel Singleton MBE RN was the Reviewing Officer, and the wreath-laying ceremony and sounding of the Last Post beneath Nelson’s Column were particularly moving. I was also struck by Nelson’s own prayer before the battle, in which he asked that humanity should prevail following victory. A sentiment worth remembering.
I’ve spent much of my life working with young people, and occasions like this remind me why. We hear plenty about the supposed shortcomings of today’s teenagers, yet here were hundreds of them, some probably only fourteen, demonstrating commitment, teamwork, discipline and considerable skill in front of a large public audience.
And behind every one of them were the volunteers who make Sea Cadets possible.
Today’s parade was a wonderful public demonstration of their work, but the real contribution happens week after week in units across the country. Adults giving their time to help young people learn new skills, build confidence, develop friendships and discover what they are capable of achieving.
Not every cadet will pursue a naval career, nor should they. The experiences, friendships and confidence they gain will stay with them wherever life takes them.
I suspect many of today’s cadets will remember standing beneath Nelson’s Column for years to come. I hope they realise just how much they impressed those of us watching.
My congratulations to everyone who took part, and my thanks to the staff and volunteers who made it happen.
Mark and I came to Trafalgar Square to commemorate a famous naval victory. We left feeling rather proud of a new generation.
Not a bad way to spend a Sunday morning.
