Armed Forces Day competition held in Eastbourne
On Saturday, May 9, cadet units from Eastbourne and Hailsham gathered for the highly anticipated Armed Forces Day Cadets Drill and Turnout Competition.
The event was held at the Carter Barracks on Latimer Road in Eastbourne and saw multiple units compete for the Steve Williams shield.
Taking part in the competition were Eastbourne Junior Sea Cadets, No 10A Eastbourne Army Cadets, No 10B Eastbourne Army Cadets, Eastbourne Royal Marine Cadets, Eastbourne Sea Cadets, 54A Eastbourne Royal Air Force Cadets and 54B Eastbourne Royal Air Force Cadets.
The event was attended by military veterans representing each of the Armed Forces, who not only judged the competition but also spent time speaking with the cadets, sharing stories and insights from their own military experiences.
The competition results were securely held by organiser Robin Funnell of Eastbourne and District Veterans CIC and will be officially announced during Eastbourne Armed Forces Day on Saturday, June 27 at 5 Acre Field, adding further anticipation to this year’s celebrations.
The Drill and Turnout Shield is dedicated to the memory of Royal Marine Steve Williams, who played a major role in helping to restart Armed Forces Day events in Eastbourne following the pandemic.
Looking ahead, the Eastbourne branch of the Royal British Legion and Eastbourne and District Veterans CIC plan to ‘continue working closely with local cadet units through informative talks and activities designed to enhance understanding of military life, history and service.’