Bermuda Cadets Join Trafalgar Parade In UK
Six Bermuda Sea Cadets represented the island at the National Trafalgar Day Parade in London, England.
A spokesperson said, “The parade was held on 19th October and marked the 220th anniversary of Admiral Lord Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar.
“The parade was made up of more than 350 Sea Cadets, Royal Navy Volunteer Cadets, Royal Marine Cadets, Army Cadets and Air Cadets from across the United Kingdom, including a 77-strong Sea Cadet massed band. The Bermuda Sea Cadets took pride of place as part of the elite 48-cadet honour guard, leading the parade and escorting the Sea Cadet Colour.
“Led by Sub-Lieutenant [SCC] Sam Bennett RNR and Petty Officer [SCC] Ani Douglas, the Bermuda contingent included Petty Officer Cadet Laura Frith, Able Cadets Nathan Cassidy Baras and Xavier Vezina and Ordinary Cadets Lexie Taylor, A’Lia German Pitcher, and Christian Fox. Each of them earned their place through months of intense training and preparation, mastering ceremonial drill and uniform presentation to the high standards required for such a parade.”
“From the moment we arrived in London, our cadets were thrown straight into the deep end — and they rose to the challenge brilliantly,” said S/Lt [SCC] Bennett. “Their professionalism, confidence, and teamwork were second to none. Seeing them stand proudly in Trafalgar Square representing Bermuda was a truly special moment. To say we were proud of them all would be an understatement.”
A spokesperson added, “The Bermuda Sea Cadets made a strong impression during the parade, with their immaculate uniforms and distinctive “BERMUDA SCC” cap tallies sparking interest and admiration from the gathered dignitaries and spectators. The inspecting officer, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin KCB ADC, made a point of speaking personally with all six Bermuda cadets — a moment that underscored both the island’s contribution and the high standard of training delivered locally.
“The Captain of the UK Sea Cadet Corps, Capt. Neil Downing RN, spoke to the Cadets at the conclusion of the final rehearsal before the parade. Emphasising his pride in all of the Cadets and adult volunteers for their hard work and dedication in preparing for the event, he noted the historic participation of the Bermuda Sea Cadet Corps, saying, “We are especially delighted to have the Bermuda Sea Cadets on parade with us this year for the first time, making this event even more special. Bravo Zulu to you all!”
“Following the parade, the Bermuda Cadets travelled to Scotland to take part in additional training experiences. They did some rowing training and even tried windsurfing, all on the Clyde River – wearing dry suits!”
When asked about the walterborne training experience, Ordinary Cadet Christian Fox said, “It was great to see what the cadets in the UK get to experience and try some new activities. The water is really cold. I don’t know how they do activities in that water all the time!”
The spokesperson added, “The Bermuda Cadets also took part in a parade night with one of the local Scottish Sea Cadet Units, T.S. Fife, based on HMS Caledonia, and finished off their visit with a traditional Scottish dinner and ceilidh dancing.
“After a busy trip and intensive drill training for the parade, the Bermuda Sea Cadets are now preparing t0 put their experience on show for the upcoming Remembrance parades. As they do every year, they will march in the National Remembrance Parade at the Cenotaph on Front Street, and will also lead the very poignant HMS Jervis Bay commemoration at Albuoy’s Point at 9.00am on 11 November. The lessons learned and connections made in the UK will stand them in good stead for those parades and their continued training, and strengthen the Corps’ mission to inspire Bermuda’s next generation of leaders through maritime adventure, discipline, and service.
“The Bermuda Sea Cadet Corps will hold its next recruitment night, open to girls and boys between the ages of 10 and 17, on Friday, January 16th. For more information or to be added to the waiting list for enrolment, email bermudaseacadets@gmail.com.”
