Spitfire Cadet March

Air Cadets for 22 (Sandy) Squadron recently returned after a fun filled weekend of camping at Folkestone in Kent, undertaking the annual Spitfire Cadet March.

A small team of cadets and staff set off early on Friday 28th May to setup the campsite at Dibgate Camp, Folkestone, ready for the arrival of the cadets in the evening. On arrival the cadets, along with three cadets attending from 2500 (St Neots) Squadron received a camp briefing, before having soup before bed.

On the Saturday the cadets visited the Battle of Britain Memorial at Capel-le-Ferne, taking a good look around the monuments dedicated to the bravery of the airmen that served during the Battle of Britain., which is currently celebrating its 80th anniversary.

The cadets also visited the beach, as well as swimming at a local pool. The evening saw the cadets tucking into a sumptuous meal, before enjoying games on the Nintendo Wii.

Sunday saw the cadets participate in the annual Spitfire Cadet March, joining other cadet units from across the region. The cadet’s spirits were high as they walked the 25 kilometre route over the hills surrounding Folkestone. Despite aching feet and legs, the whole team managed to complete the route in six hours. For their hard work the cadets received medals and certificates in recognition of their achievements.

Cadet Simon Parsons (15) commented “I have had an amazing weekend. The Battle of Britain Memorial was really interesting, and the swimming was good fun. The march was really challenging, especially going up the hills, but felt so rewarding in the end. I can’t wait to attend next year’s march”.

The cadets ended the camp by thanking Commanding Officer of 22 (Sandy) Squadron, Flight Lieutenant Mark Robinson for organising the camp, and for his great cooking over the weekend.