Passing-out parades have been held to celebrate the achievements of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service’s (HIWFR’s) Fire Cadets in Ringwood, Rushmoor, Sandown and Southsea.
The celebrations began on Thursday 4 July at Southsea fire station. Southsea Fire Cadets, HIWFRS Colleagues, Chief Fire Officer Neil Odin, and family and friends were joined by Patron of the HIWFRS Fire Cadets Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson, Esq, who presented the cadets with certificates of achievement. During the ceremony, the cadets also performed a series of impressive drills that they had learnt during their time on the Fire Cadet Programme.
It was time to celebrate Sandown Fire Cadets on Monday 8 July as family and friends of the Sandown Fire Cadets gathered with HIWFRS colleagues and dignitaries for a small celebratory ceremony where the cadets gave speeches about their individual journeys, before being presented with certificates to mark their achievements.
On Wednesday 10 July it was the turn of Rushmoor Fire Cadets to celebrate their achievements with family, friends and HIWFRS colleagues at Rushmoor fire station.
HIWFRS’ Fire Cadet Manager Clair Hayward said:
“We are incredibly proud of all the units passing out for all they’ve achieved in their time with cadets.”
“I would like to congratulate them all on completing this journey as a Fire Cadet and for the determination they have shown to complete the programme.
“Their resilience and commitment to Fire Cadets is highly commendable.”
The final passing-out parade was held on the evening of Friday 12 July at Ringwood Fire Station. All cadet groups performed drills during their passing-out parades to showcase some of the skills they had learnt. The Volunteer Fire Cadet Instructors were also presented with certificates in recognition of the time and dedication they have given supporting the cadets.
Fire Cadets is a training programme run by the fire service to give youngsters between the ages of 13 and 17 the opportunity to gain essential social, life, work and wellbeing skills, and develop their confidence and personal skills.
The Service is looking for new recruits to join the Ringwood, Rushmoor, Sandown and Southsea cadet units in September. If you know any 13–17-year-olds who might be interested you can find out more here.
The Service is also currently seeking enthusiastic and dedicated Volunteer Fire Cadet Instructors to help run their fire cadet units. This is a great opportunity to become a role model and help mentor young people. No previous experience is necessary as full training and uniform will be provided. If you can help please email fire.cadets@hantsfire.gov.uk or visit our volunteer pages to find out more.
With thanks to Community Interest Company 3S Fire for their continued support of the HIWFRS Fire Cadets.