Wiltshire Army Cadets prepare for leading role at Swindon Armed Forces Day
The event is returning later this month for the first time since 2019
Last updated 1st Jun 2023
We have spoken to members of the Wiltshire Army Cadets Force, as they prepare to take centre stage at this year's Swindon Armed Forces Day.
The event is returning later this month, for the first time since before the Coronavirus pandemic.
Local cadets will be showcasing their various marching routines and other skills at Faringdon Park, performing alongside Swindon musicians, choirs and dance groups.
'Recognition of the good that the armed forces do'
Company Sergeant Major Hearn has been involved with the Wiltshire Army Cadets for the past eight years. She's told us the occasion will be a culmination of around two months of training!
"They have practiced really hard. They're here from 7pm until 9pm (on training days), so it's quite a long night of drills for them, but they enjoy it.
"There's a real variety of backgrounds within our cadets. Some are from quite privileged backgrounds, some not quite so privileged.
"When they put this uniform on, it doesn't matter where you're from, who you are, or what happens at home. This is where they can be their own individual person and get to do absolutely amazing things," she said.
Swindon Armed Forces Day will open with a short act of Remembrance, before a funfair, tug of war and various other events get underway. Charity stalls will be dotted around Faringdon Park, with food and drink refreshments also on offer.
Major Hearn says she wants the day to provide "recognition of the good that the armed forces do for our country".
"To come along and celebrate that (would be) amazing," she added.
The gathering is part of the national Armed Forces Day campaign, with events being held across the UK this month.
Swindon's version, on 17 June, will be free entry and run from 11am until 4pm.
The deadline for anyone wanting to host a stall is 5 June.