Annual Drill Competition at RAF Marham

Precision, Pride, and Perseverance on Parade

Cadets from across the Norfolk and Suffolk Wings gathered at RAF Marham this past weekend to take part in one of the most prestigious events on the Air Cadet calendar — the Annual Drill Competition. The day brought together squadrons from across the region in a proud display of discipline, teamwork, and tradition.

For weeks leading up to the event, the cadets of 863 (Thurston) Squadron have been hard at work, practising nightly under the guidance of their NCOs and staff. Every turn, pause, and stamp of the foot has been refined through countless hours of dedication. Their commitment culminated in a fair showing of skill, precision, and diligence, demonstrating the pride they hold for their squadron and the wider Royal Air Force Air Cadets.

Drill has long held a place of honour within the Royal Air Force — a hallmark of unity, respect, and attention to detail. It’s more than just a sequence of movements; it’s a language of discipline and teamwork. Within the RAFAC, it teaches cadets the importance of following orders with precision, supporting their peers, and representing their unit with pride. Every parade, every competition, and every moment on the drill square connects today’s cadets to a century-old tradition of excellence that defines the RAF.

At RAF Marham, this tradition was very much alive. From the opening salute to the final march past, the sense of occasion was unmistakable. Smart uniforms gleamed under the autumn sun, commands echoed crisply across the tarmac, and the air carried a palpable sense of camaraderie and respect.

Though the competition was fierce, the day was marked by mutual encouragement and shared pride in the standards achieved by all wings represented. For 863 (Thurston) Squadron, this was not just a test of drill ability but a reaffirmation of what teamwork and perseverance can accomplish.

In addition to competing, cadets also had the unique opportunity to interact with a pair of RAF sniffer dogs, adding real value to their day. This experience gave them a fascinating glimpse into another aspect of RAF operations and the vital role these highly trained animals play in service life.

The day would not have been possible without the support of dedicated staff. A big thank you to CI Barbrooke for giving up his Saturday to drive and supervise the cadets throughout the event — his time and commitment ensured everything ran smoothly from start to finish.

As the cadets returned home, tired but proud, they carried with them not only the memory of the competition but also the deeper lesson that discipline and unity are the foundations of leadership — a value at the very heart of the RAF and the RAF Air Cadets.