863 Cadets Visit The Norfolk Tank Museum

For many of the cadets of 863 (Thurston) Squadron, arriving at the Norfolk Tank Museum at around 1915 felt like stepping directly into history itself.

In a truly special gesture, the museum opened exclusively for the cadets, allowing them to experience the site in a far more personal and immersive way. As the evening light settled across the museum grounds, cadets were greeted by the incredible sight of towering tanks, armoured vehicles, artillery pieces, and military exhibits stretching across the site. From the very beginning, there was a real sense of excitement and privilege amongst the group.

The visit quickly became far more than simply looking at old vehicles. It was an opportunity for cadets to experience history up close and in a way that few people ever get the chance to. Standing beside enormous armoured vehicles that once operated during some of the world’s most significant conflicts gave everyone a moment to reflect on the realities faced by soldiers of the past.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening was seeing Deborah II, the replica Mark IV tank featured in Channel 4’s “Guy Martin’s WWI Tank”. Many cadets were fascinated by the design and sheer scale of the First World War vehicle, imagining the harsh and dangerous conditions crews would have endured inside these early machines over one hundred years ago.

The museum’s hands-on approach made the experience even more engaging. Cadets had the chance to climb inside vehicles including the Chieftain Main Battle Tank and the Saladin Armoured Scout Car, discovering just how cramped and uncomfortable life inside an armoured turret could be. Sitting inside the confined spaces gave everyone a much deeper appreciation for the resilience, teamwork, and courage required by military crews.

Throughout the evening, cadets explored the extensive displays of uniforms, weapons, and military artefacts with genuine curiosity, asking thoughtful questions and eagerly listening to the stories behind the exhibits. The passion and knowledge of the museum staff and volunteers helped bring history to life in a way that no classroom or documentary could ever fully recreate.

One of the standout highlights of the night was the opportunity for cadets to ride in the Hagglunds BV206 All Terrain Vehicle. As the BV powered across the off-road course, bouncing and climbing over rough terrain, nervous laughter quickly turned into huge smiles and excitement. For many cadets, it was their first experience inside a tracked military vehicle, and the ride gave them a real sense of the power, mobility, and capability these machines provide in extreme environments. Long after stepping back onto solid ground, the BV ride remained one of the most talked about moments of the evening.

As the evening drew to a close shortly after 2100, cadets left tired but smiling after an unforgettable experience. What made the visit so special was not only the incredible collection of military history, but the opportunity to explore it together in an exclusive setting designed entirely for them.

863 (Thurston) Squadron would like to extend a sincere thank you to the Norfolk Tank Museum team for opening the museum especially for the cadets and for providing such a welcoming, educational, and memorable evening. Experiences like these help inspire curiosity, respect for history, and memories that will remain with cadets for many years to come.

Also thanks to the 863 Staff transport and supervising CI Crissall, CI Barbrooke, CI Millards (Both).