Marching Into History: Wiltshire Cadets Honour Arnhem
3 December 2025
3 December 2025
Thanks to grant funding from ACCT UK, cadets from Wiltshire Army Cadet Force proudly joined the 2025 Arnhem Marches. This extraordinary experience combined history, remembrance, and challenge, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who took part.
For those who joined the trip, Arnhem was an invitation to walk in the footsteps of history and to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who fought there in 1944.
Across four days, the cadets marched through the Netherlands alongside participants from across Europe. Each step carried meaning. Each mile built both endurance and reflection.
“Taking part in the Arnhem March was an incredible challenge. Marching alongside other nations made me feel part of something much bigger. It gave me real pride in representing Wiltshire ACF.”
Cadet Sgt Maj Robson
For many, Arnhem became a living classroom. The cadets saw first-hand the battlefields, memorials, and bridges that once defined a turning point in the Second World War. It brought home the human stories behind the history books.
The trip demanded physical endurance. However, it was also about education, gratitude, and the responsibility of remembrance.
Cadet Company Sgt Maj Robinson reflected: “Visiting the battlefields where soldiers once fought was emotional and inspiring. It made me realise the importance of learning about our past.”
Among the most powerful moments was visiting the Oosterbeek War Cemetery, where many of those who fought in Operation Market Garden are buried. For the cadets, the visit was personal and humbling.
“The highlight for me was visiting the Arnhem Oosterbeek Cemetery. Seeing the graves of soldiers my age who gave everything was humbling and gave me perspective on my own life.”
Cadet Sgt Maj S Parsons
Standing among the white gravestones, the cadets shared quiet moments of reflection. This was a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom and the importance of remembrance.
The physical challenge of the march tested every participant’s determination and teamwork. Over long days and tough miles, cadets encouraged one another, proving that resilience grows strongest when shared.
“I made amazing friendships during the march, and we all supported each other through the tough miles. The sense of achievement at the end was unbelievable.”
Cadet Cpl Matthews
For some, the march became an opportunity for personal growth.
Cadet Cpl Kinzett shared, “This trip has made me want to keep pushing myself in cadets and beyond. The chance gave me an opportunity to prove to myself that I could achieve more than I thought.”
Adventure and history came together to shape confidence and ambition that will serve these young people far beyond the parade ground.
The life-changing experience was only possible thanks to ACCT UK’s financial support.
“The support… and the funding grants meant I could take part in this once‑in‑a‑lifetime opportunity. Without it, I wouldn’t have been able to afford the trip, so I’m really grateful.”
Cadet Cpl Bella Hopkins
Colonel PJ White, Commandant Wiltshire ACF, echoed this gratitude: “Without this financial support, some cadets may not have been able to participate. We are genuinely grateful for ACCT UK’s continued backing.”
The trip was equally transformative for the adult volunteers who guided and supported cadets every step of the way.
SMI Moore described the experience as “once‑in‑a‑lifetime. A chance to walk in history, share unforgettable moments with fellow adult volunteers, and return with stories that inspire others. If you ever get the opportunity to go – take it.”
“Attending Arnhem 2025 with our cadets was one of the most moving and meaningful experiences of my life. To stand where true heroes are remembered, learn history in such a powerful way, and represent Wiltshire ACF with pride was an honour. It’s a trip that inspires, educates, and stays with you forever.”
SI Jane Fuller
Beyond the marches and ceremonies, Arnhem strengthened the values at the heart of the Army Cadet Force… Leadership, resilience, respect, and service. The cadets returned home with a deeper understanding of history and a greater sense of pride in their organisation and themselves.
Cadet Sgt Maj Luca Rice perhaps said it best… “Being able to stand on the ground where history happened and then take part in a living memorial march gave me a sense of pride I’ll carry forever.”
For every cadet who took part, Arnhem 2025 was a moment of connection across generations. It honoured the past while inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.
Thanks to ACCT UK’s support, those lessons and memories will live on long after the final march.