New Recruits Diary Week 7 Day 13 - Blue uniform / Shoe Demo and Practical

On Day 13 of the New Recruits Diary, the cadets at 863 (Thurston) Squadron delved into the essentials of uniform upkeep, with a focus on maintaining their blue uniforms and shoes to the high standards expected. Under the expert guidance of SGT Johns and CDT Scarbro, the recruits gained both theoretical and practical knowledge on uniform maintenance, polishing techniques, and understanding of the required standards of presentation.

Lesson Highlights

The session took place in the classroom, where SGT Johns opened with a demonstration on the meticulous care required to keep a cadet’s blue uniform looking sharp. This involved everything from checking for creases and aligning badges correctly to ensuring overall uniform tidiness. CDT Scarbro/SGT proceeded to demonstrate the proper technique for polishing shoes, highlighting the importance of both appearance and care to prolong the life of the footwear.

The practical segment was an interactive session in which the recruits practiced these maintenance techniques themselves. Under the watchful eyes of SGT Johns and CDT Scarbro, they were shown how to polish shoes to a mirror-like shine—a key skill for any cadet in the squadron.

Practical Skills for the Future

This lesson not only provided practical skills for uniform and shoe care but also served as a character-building exercise. SGT Johns set an excellent example of a senior NCO committed to high standards, while CDT Scarbro’s guidance reflected the strength of 863’s future NCOs. Together, they created an encouraging environment where the new recruits could develop their attention to detail, pride in appearance, and commitment to squadron values.

Special Thanks

A special thank you goes out to SGT Johns and CDT Scarbro for their dedication and teamwork. This session demonstrated the power of senior NCOs and aspiring NCOs working side-by-side to support and mentor the squadron’s new recruits. As the recruits progress, these lessons in pride and responsibility will serve them well in their journey with 863 (Thurston) Squadron.