As a uniformed youth organisation, we differ from Scout and Guides in many ways, but the most obvious of these is our uniform.  We are not part of the RAF as such, but we are part of the RAF ‘family’ and hence we are seen as their representatives whilst out and about.  It is important that cadets learn drill – the ability to move a group of cadets around in a smart and orderly fashion without fuss or argument.  We practice drill on the Squadron, and there are some annual events where we can show off our drill skills to the public.

There are several parades which take place in Hexham - Armed Forces Day (June), the Battle of Britain Parade (September), Remembrance Day (November).  These are an opportunity for us to commemorate particular events and to show the public that we are a smart, enthusiastic group of young people who represent the Armed Forces in our area.  These are activities which we expect all of the cadets to take part in – it’s important to us as a Squadron that we show our support for the Armed Forces community and our town.

We also have an annual inspection, performed by our Wing Commander or his deputy, and this takes the form of a parade at one of the local schools.  We show off our drill skills and he inspects our uniform.  This is our opportunity to show him, and our Wing Warrant Officer, our drill skills and how proud we are of our Squadron.