Corps showcase: A humbling voyage

I didn’t know I’d have the honour of carrying the D-Day 80 Torch of Commemoration until I was actually onboard TS Jack Petchey and the First Lieutenant said, “Oh, you’re the one meeting Princess Anne, aren’t you?” I thought he was joking, then they explained what I would be doing at the Great Vigil at Bayeux War Cemetery.  

We had a few rehearsals with the BBC before the event, so I knew what I was doing. But apart from that it was mainly trying not to overthink it – especially with my friends making jokes about not dropping the torch!

At the start of the procession, I was really focused on walking in time and holding the flame correctly. But about half way I told myself to just take it in and appreciate that I was alongside serving personnel as well as veterans, to mark this important event in world history. This unique opportunity – literally passing the torch to the next generation, to carry on the legacy of all veterans – was so humbling. 

I was also conscious of representing the young people of the Commonwealth, as well as the UK, because I am from New Zealand. I’ve not lived there for over half my life, but I still feel connected to it. 

Being offshore for the anniversary was amazing, meeting cadets from all over the UK as well those from the other vessels we moored next to in France. I’ve made some of my new closest friends during that time. 

I was looking forward to meeting some veterans, but nothing prepared me for actually being with them and hearing their stories, especially since a lot of them were younger in 1944 than I am now. They told us how thankful they are to the cadets who take part in commemoration events. 

When I got home, I had a message from my old headteacher, thanking me for doing it because she had a great-uncle buried in Bayeux. That made me realise it’s not just important to people with active connections to the military now, but to all people. 

The experience has made me extremely thankful – not just for the fact that I have a future that many of the young soldiers didn’t get to have, but also that I have so many opportunities. A lot of the veterans said it was really good to see young women getting involved in the military; it makes me feel empowered that a generation I might stereotype as ‘old fashioned’ is encouraging me into a career I could see myself in. 

I turn 18 in September and plan to continue studying at college until I have finished my A-levels. After that, I’m considering joining the Royal Navy. In the nearer future I will become a volunteer at Trafford Unit, so I can give back to the cadets everything that I feel Sea Cadets has given to me. 

Photos: Sea Cadets, Alamy