County army cadets fly the flag at Euro walking event
Members of Northumbria Army Cadet Force have successfully completed the world’s largest multi-day walking event.
The cadets took part in the prestigious International Nijmegen Four-day Marches in the Netherlands, with support from the Northumberland branch of the Soldiers', Sailors', and Airmen's Families Association (SSAFA)
Held annually since 1909, the Nijmegen Marches are the world’s largest multi-day walking event – attracting military and civilian participants from across the globe.
For military teams, the event is not only an exceptional test of endurance – walking between 30 and 50 km a day – but also an opportunity to honour those who fought and died during the liberation of the Netherlands in the Second World War.
Throughout the challenge, the Northumbria Army Cadet Force carried the SSAFA flag and took part in acts of remembrance, laying wreaths in tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Dr Caroline Pryer, chair of SSAFA Northumberland and Lord-Lieutenant of Northumberland said: “The Nijmegen Marches are about far more than endurance.
"They are an opportunity for young people to demonstrate resilience, teamwork and commitment while honouring those who served before them.
"I am incredibly proud of the Northumbria Army Cadet Force for completing this remarkable challenge and grateful that SSAFA Northumberland could play a small part in supporting them.
"They are outstanding ambassadors for Northumberland and for the values that unite our Armed Forces community.”
Col Mike White commandant of Northumbria Cadet Force said: “SSAFA’s support is greatly valued and enables the county to deliver the very best for our cadets and volunteers.
"We are immensely grateful to the Chair and members of SSAFA Northumberland for their ongoing support.”
The Nijmegen challenge is just one part of the long-standing partnership between SSAFA Northumberland and the Northumbria Army Cadet Force.
Each year, the charity supports cadet units across the county including – providing funding to units that appoint a Lord-Lieutenant's Cadet and helping young people complete their Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award through annual bursaries that ensure promising cadets can take part regardless of their financial circumstances.
SSAFA volunteers have been helping the armed forces community – regulars and reserves, serving or retired, and their families since 1885.