November 2006 see picture library here
St Albans Sea Cadets as the Senior Service provide the armed sentry at the War Memorial. This year the honour fell to Leading Cadet Lucy Parker and Leading Cadet Ilse Sharp under the direction Petty Officer (SCC) Mark Tremayne.
With heads bowed and rifles upturned, barrels resting on their toes, the girls stoically stood sentry and guarded the memorial for over an hour before the 11am service and wreath laying. As the parade diss-assembled they were the last ones to leave. Lucy, 16, from London Colney commented, "It was cold and the guns are heavy, but I think it's important to remember those who made much bigger sacrifices." Ilse, 15, from Hatfield added, "I was really proud to be chosen to do this duty, and show that we do remember those who have died for us in wars."
Over fifty St Albans Sea Cadets and associated Marine Cadets were in the main parade. All had made a great effort to have their uniforms in top condition, despite there being no inspection. They were very smart. In addition the Unit's Chief Petty Officer, Ray Gosling was the overall Parade Marshall.
Sea Cadets are not just about drill and ceremony. Indeed there's no time to be bored with St Albans Sea Cadets, see www.seacadetfun.com/ . It offers many fun opportunities and is open to boys and girls for 10 to 18 years and very inexpensive, with uniform being provided. The unit always welcomes new faces, just turn up at 7pm on a Tuesday or Friday night, at the unit, which is just behind Westminster Lodge swimming pool. Why not give it a try, and help dispell the gloom of these long winter nights and make new friends and learn new skills, you've nothing to lose!
Adult volunteers are welcome too, there's great training, and the opportunity to make a real difference to the local community. Plus the management committee, who meet just once a month, have spaces and are interested in new faces.