25th April 2023
Cadets and supporters from TS Kingfisher had a fantastic weekend at HMS Raleigh. Even the weather and torrential rain didn’t dampen our spirits as we competed in the National Drill competition.
Our Unarmed Drill Team, already Warwickshire District and South West Area Champions have worked tirelessly over the past months to perfect their drill skills to compete in this competition.
Already a huge accomplishment for the Unit, it has been some 19 years since we have qualified for this competition, which shows the level of commitment and achievement the team have realised.
The SW Area Officer, Cdr G Mills RN, took time to address the team prior to the competition and expressed how proud he was of their commitment.
The drill display was executed exceptionally well and the cadets, individually, and as a team should take pride in their performance.
The President of the Sea Cadets, Captain Sea Cadets and HMS Raleigh, Commander Training RN presented the medals to the winning teams and I am most proud to announce we were only one point away from the medal positions.
Placed 4th in the competition, and therefore the 4th best unarmed drill team of over 400 units in the UK, is absolutely amazing and certainly puts TS Kingfisher on the National Map as a Unit held in high regard.
Thanks must be given to the the participating cadets for taking parts with such enthusiams and committment. Special thanks to the Drill Instructors, especially Lt(SCC) D Dargie MBE RNR for coaching the team and the supporting staff who have transported, supervised and offered pastoral care to the cadets during the weekend.
Without our super volunteers, the cadet experience just wouldn’t exist! Thank you also to the parents/ supporters who made the very long journey to Torpoint to cheer on our cadets. The drill shed was exceptionally cold, but your warm welcome and cheers were just what the cadets needed to boost their confidence.
It has been a marvellous experience for all!