Honouring Remembrance: 2286 Squadron’s Week of Tribute and Service

Last Tuesday, our Squadron kicked off a packed Remembrance Week proudly representing Coventry in the annual Guard of Honour at the Coventry City football match, held at the CBS Arena. Each year during Remembrance Week, our squadron joins forces with the Coventry Royal British Legion and the Sea Cadet Corps to lead this powerful tribute to those who have served our country.

The Guard of Honour, performed by 10 cadets from our squadron, opened the match as the crowd observed a moment of reflection and respect. While the whole squadron could not be part of this special occasion, the selected cadets stood in for their fellow squadron members to honour the fallen. For the cadets chosen, it was a meaningful opportunity to represent the RAF Air Cadets and stand alongside other service organisations.

Before the match, the cadets continue to collect for the Poppy Appeal. This year it was quite wet so we are very proud of the cadets resilience and determination.

Flying Officer Amy Seymour RAFAC, Officer in Charge of the event, reflected on the significance: “Our cadets are immensely proud to uphold Coventry’s long-standing commitment to remembrance.  Particularly in this 85^th year since The Coventry Blitz,  it offers a chance for them to reflect on the sacrifices of those who served and the local people, and to experience firsthand the unity and respect shown by our community. It’s an honour we are grateful to participate in each year.”

For many of the cadets, being part of this evening was especially exciting – as loyal Coventry City supporters, they got to enjoy cheering for their home team once the ceremony concluded. The night was filled with pride, camaraderie, and respect, and we’re grateful to Coventry City Football Club and the community for their support in making this annual remembrance event meaningful for all.

Then on Saturday , 25 cadets and five staff members from 2286 Squadron proudly took to the streets to support the Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal. This event is one of the highlights of our year, where we come together to honour those who have served and sacrificed, raising funds to support veterans, active personnel, and their families.

Starting early in the day, our cadets spread out across Jubilee Crescent in Coventry, stationed at the Tesco Express and local shops. With a warm welcome from the community, our team received an outpouring of generosity from residents and visitors alike. Shoppers paused to chat with our cadets, share stories, and contribute to this vital cause, showing that the spirit of remembrance is alive and well.

The funds raised today go directly to the Royal British Legion, helping them provide essential support to veterans and serving members of the armed forces. The Poppy Appeal funding reaches into communities across the UK, providing everything from emergency grants to long-term assistance for those who have given so much. We are delighted to play a part in this effort, and every penny donated today goes to continue the Legion's critical work.

A huge thank you to everyone who participated. We’re also grateful to the local businesses at Jubilee Crescent for their hospitality and to everyone who stopped by to contribute.

Sunday saw us participating in the Coventry Remembrance Parade, one of the most significant events in our city’s calendar.  One of the largest parades in the Midlands, it was both an honor and a privilege for our Squadron to stand alongside fellow cadets, veterans, and the community to pay our respects.

Our main contingent marched as a flight within the RAFAC Wing group. Each cadet looked sharp and carried themselves with the respect and reverence the day deserved. At the cenotaph, CWO O’Connell laid the Squadron’s wreath – an honor that reflects not only his dedication but also that of every cadet on parade today.

Flt Lt Julie Seymour, our Squadron OC, expressed her pride in  the entire 2286 team: “Today was a real team effort. From our staff and NCOs to the support of families and parents, everyone played a role in making this parade happen. I’m so proud of each cadet for representing Coventry with such commitment and respect.”

The Coventry Remembrance Parade holds a special place in our city’s heart, bringing together people from all walks of life to honor those who have served. Our cadets understand the weight of this day and wear their uniforms with pride, knowing they are part of something much bigger than themselves.

Our final event was a collection for the RBL and a Guard of Honour at the Remembrance Day  Coventry Blaze match, a final moment of silence and respect.  The cadets and staff then got to cheer the Blaze to victory before two of our cadets, Sgt Ryan and Cdt Kaur Gill got to present the Man of the Match Awards to both team.  It was a thrilling end to a busy but rewarding week and we would like to thank Coventry Blaze for giving us this opportunity.

If you or someone you know would like to get involved with 2286 (Coventry   contact us

during our parade evenings by phone, email us, or find our details on the contact page of our website. Additionally, our upcoming Open Evening in January is a great way to learn more about what we do – simply visit the Events tab on our website to book your spot. Join us in making a difference and become part of the proud Coventry RAF Air Cadets community!