The annual CCF Passing Out Parade, reviewed by Major General Tony Turner (N 1994), celebrated the achievements and dedication of the Contingent’s cadets. Featuring around half of the unit’s 420-strong membership, the parade marked the completion of recruit training for the Fourth Form and the final ceremonial appearance for Upper Sixth cadets, whose leadership has been instrumental in the CCF’s success this year.
The parade featured the Marching Band and Drum Display, ceremonial marches, Inspection and music. ‘Highland Cathedral’ was played in memory of Air Commodore Andrew Hine, who died in April.
Major General Turner delivered an address before the traditional March Past.
In the prize-giving, top honours went to Cadet Chief Petty Officer Somerville-Cotton, awarded the Major David Dew Memorial Cup for commitment, and Cadet Flight Sergeant Honnor, who received the David Hicks Prize for leadership and service.
The afternoon also featured displays of an impressive range of skills, including the Fire and Rescue, Adventure Training and Shooting contingents.
The past year has seen a packed calendar of CCF training and events. Cadets took part in two Field Weekends in Portsmouth, Thetford, and the Peak District, benefitting from excellent weather. An Army Section team achieved a Gold Award at Exercise Combat Cadet, while the RAF Section entered the prestigious Air Squadron Trophy. The ski trip returned to the Swiss Alps, and Dryden and Wyatt House shared victory in the House March and Shoot competition.
Musically, the CCF Band had a standout year, performing at Oundle’s Remembrance Sunday and marching in the Lord Mayor’s Show in London, welcoming the new Lord Mayor and Old Oundelian, Alastair King.
Over Half Term, cadets will undertake a cycling tour of the Normandy battlefields to mark 80 years since D-Day. In June the Fourth Form will visit the battlefields of the Somme, including a Service of Remembrance at the Thiepval Memorial. The Army Section’s annual Summer Camp in Warcop will conclude the term.
