News
November 11th 2013
Long Eaton Air Cadets Remember
Basking in early winter sunshine, hundreds of people from Long Eaton assembled around the Town’s War Memorial to remember those of the town who have fallen in the service of their country.
Led by the Long Eaton Silver Prize Band, a long column of Veteran and youth organisations marched through the town to assemble at the War Memorial for a Service of Remembrance, led by the Bishop Roger Jupp.
Around 25 Air Cadets and staff from 2195 (Long Eaton) Squadron proudly took their place within the parade led by their Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutenant Jack Stepanian.
Following the two minute silence, wreaths were laid by the assembled organisations. The first wreath by the Deputy Mayor of Erewash, Councillor Kewal Singh Athwal, on behalf of the Town. This was followed by wreaths from the Royal British Legion, the Royal Air Force Association and other Veteran Associations, cadet organisations and youth movements. Cadet Flight Sergeant Kerry Nall laying the wreath on behalf of the Air Cadets.
After the service, the parade reformed and marched past the Memorial, paying their respects. As the parade progressed through the Town, the assembled crowd showed their appreciation, not only of an excellent parade, but for the service to their Country made by those veterans proudly marching.
All through the parade, Cadet Flight Sergeant Laura Allen of the Long Eaton squadron had the privilege of pushing World War II Veteran Alf Cross (92) in his wheel chair. Although unable to walk unaided, Alf insists on being in the parade, feeling that it is the least he can do in memory of his fallen comrades.
