On 27th June, about 20 cadets went to Wantage to march for Armed Forces Day. We parked in the Leisure Centre, then walked to the Civic Hall. We formed up and started marching to a band. A lot of people were lining the streets, even though it was an absolutely boiling day! We got to the church, and there was a short service. Then we set off again, back round to the Civic Hall. We did an 'eyes left' by Woolys to the mayor, and all the important people. I kept treading on some one's heels! When we got back to the Civic Hall, we hung around for a bit, then walked back to the minibus. We all had something to drink, then drove back to Didcot.

This was my first parades that I actually did a lot of marching in, and I'm glad to say I didn't get out of step except for one time. It was a really good parade, lots of people turned out and some people were cheering and clapping us. It was really hot, and a couple of cadets had to sit out, but everyone finished the parade marching.

On June 6th I went to Harwell Stone with around 20 other cadets from 2410 Squadron. We got there and split up into 2, depending on height, so all the tall cadets (with Wantage squadron) were lining the path where the flag-bearers were walking up. We were number 2 flight, and basically we just stood at attention through the ceremony. Two cadets from Wantage fainted or nearly fainted, but they were alright in the end. I didn't find it too bad as it was raining and quite cold - just like the actual landings. My feet did hurt though!

I really enjoyed it, and although it was sad because of the history of D-Day, it was a privilege to be there. It's nice to get dressed up in your smart uniform and represent your squadron at parades like this. People like seeing you there, and it's good to have these parades to honour the men that fought on D-Day and in Operation Overlord, because they did a lot for us.