Ive been nominated for wreath laying on the remembrance parade. Me and another cadet are doing it but have no idea when we fall out of the main Cadet flight to stand near the memorial. Does anyone know the command i should listen out for, (if so what is it and what does it mean)
Also do you salute before and after placing the Wreath or just after, multiple people from my squadron are saying different things. I haven’t had the chance to ask CO as they weren’t at squadron parade night yesterday.
and finally
does it have an order when each cadet force place the wreath or if veterans place theirs first (our area has air and army cadets only)
From the parades I have been involved with, our wreath layer falls out before the main ceremony & waits in the line-up with the others who are laying wreaths.
If there are any, you will find that the more senior dignitaries / representatives will lay wreaths first, then the other organisations, including the cadet forces. Technically, the British Army is senior Service to the RAF, so that would be a polite sequence to take.
All those in uniform come to attention & salute after laying a wreath.
As to falling out / falling back in to your main contingent, ask on the day. There may be local protocols where the parade commander gives a central order, or it may be for each contingent.
Locally for us there is an order of “fall out the wreath layers” although sometimes the wreath layers for the cadets form up separately & then fall in after laying.
There protocol for laying is normally in service order but with regulars then reserves then cadets laying. I.e. The ATC lays after the ACF.
Note that the order of the march can change with CCF units depending of sections present. CCF (RAF) will always be ahead of the ATC.
Best thing is speak to your CO & check the protocol as it varies at a lot of places each year.
As you are laying the wreath with another cadet then the important thing is that the pair of you do the same thing.
Even if it’s not correct as long as you are both the same it will look right to the majority of people there.
Do it like the King does it. Less is more. Do the simple things well and don’t try and overdo anything. You’re in the full glare and under pressure. Up to the memorial, halt, pause, step forward, lay wreath, step back, salute, pause, move off. Simples!
I laid a wreath on the grave of my Great Great Uncle this morning (10/11/24) just north of Ypres. Yesterday I visited the Arras memorial where my great grandfather is commemorated. This is so important and we must never forget. Well done to all those who carry the torch of remembrance forward. I, for one, appreciate your participation and support.
