The 254 Onward and Upward

The band was tuned, the uniforms were smart and the boots were “shiny”. Oh well, two out of three is not bad. Friday had finally come and the cadets of the 254 King’s-Edgehill School Cadet Corps were ready to go. A flurry of activity kept the morning going as cadets showed up for missing spats, hose top, and “can you sew this button on for me?”….and “someone stole one boot out of my locker.”

 

At precisely 2:15 pm the RSM gave Corps – By the Left….Quick March!! The 254 marched sharply through the streets of Windsor. The band struck up its first two tunes and then took a break. But no, what did we hear but the skirl of the pipes, yes the pipes. You heard it here first -- Mr LePoidevin has resurrected the Pipes and Drums. Six young pipers marched down the street, the reeds expanded and the cadets stood a little taller and dug in the heels. What a sight to behold!

The service at Christ Church was once again an inspirational piece thanks to our own Corps Chaplain, the Reverend David Curry. The reflections were read calmly and clearly by our students and the Colour Party marched smartly into position and handed the Colours into the care of Christ Church once again.

With the conclusion of the Church Parade, the Corps returned to campus for a relaxing supper and then got ready one last time. Standing tall and proud, they marched back on the field at Jakeman for the final inspection of the year. The weather which had been a blistering 31 C cooled right down to the low teens. Perhaps we were in the wrong dress. How many sets of snowshoes does the Corps own?

Our Reviewing Officer, Captain (Retired) Henri Medina, CD (teacher 1975-2011), a seasoned veteran of many parades, arrived on the dais at 7:00 pm. The General Salute given by the Regimental Sergeant Major, Chief Warrant Officer Tristan Kimball was delivered with grace and confidence as would befit this storied Corps. A quick inspection commenced where we identified all of the 'Newfies' in the Corps and then onto the Marchpast. The awards were presented, the Corps Advanced in Review and another parade went into the history books.

On behalf of the 254, I would like to extend a note of thanks to the entire faculty and staff of King’s-Edgehill School. You make this Corps what it is through your support and your cooperation. We pledge back to you that next year we will continue to Be More.