Between 24 July and 27 July 2025, cadets and staff of 1064 (Honiton) Squadron undertook a memorable and educational tour titled “Operation Flanders Fields”, visiting key First World War sites across France and Belgium. The tour was designed to deepen the cadets’ understanding of the sacrifices made during World War One, while providing opportunities for reflection, remembrance, and personal development.
Day 1 – Departure and Arrival in Ypres
The group departed the UK early in the morning, travelling via coach to Dover, where they boarded a ferry to Calais. From there, the journey continued into Belgium, arriving in the historic city of Ypres (Ieper), which would serve as the base for the duration of the tour. After settling into accommodation, the group received a briefing on the days ahead, emphasising the importance of remembrance and respectful conduct at all sites.
Day 2 – Exploring Flanders’ Battlefields
The second day of the tour focused on exploring significant sites around Ypres:
Essex Farm Cemetery: The first stop was this poignant site, known for being the location where Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae wrote the iconic poem “In Flanders Fields.” Cadets learned about the harrowing conditions of frontline medical stations and paid their respects at the graves of fallen soldiers, including that of 15-year-old Rifleman Valentine Strudwick.
Yorkshire Trench and Dugout: The group then visited this preserved trench system, offering a rare insight into what trench life was like for soldiers during the war. Cadets were able to walk through the reconstructed lines and experience first-hand the confined and muddy conditions endured by troops.
Langemark German War Cemetery: A stark contrast to the Commonwealth cemeteries, Langemark offered cadets the chance to reflect on the human cost of war from another perspective. The sombre atmosphere and mass burial sites served as a reminder of the widespread devastation of the conflict.
Tyne Cot Cemetery: The day concluded at the largest Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in the world, where more than 11,900 servicemen of the British Empire are buried. The cadets spent time reading inscriptions, locating names on the memorial wall, and holding a moment of silence.
Day 3 – The Somme and Canadian Battlefields
Day three took the group further afield to explore key locations from the Battle of the Somme and Canadian military history:
Vimy Ridge Canadian Memorial: A highlight of the tour, this towering and moving memorial honours Canadian forces who fought and died in France during the First World War. The group received a guided tour of the preserved trenches and tunnels, learning about the strategic importance of Vimy Ridge and the efforts of Canadian troops.
Lochnagar Crater: A powerful visual reminder of the destructive power of trench warfare, this enormous mine crater was created on the first day of the Battle of the Somme. Cadets were visibly moved by its scale and the tragic history behind it.
Thiepval Memorial to the Missing: This impressive structure commemorates over 72,000 British and South African servicemen with no known grave. The visit helped cadets understand the magnitude of the losses during the Somme offensive and provided an opportunity for quiet contemplation.
Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial: The group visited this well-preserved battlefield, dedicated to the Royal Newfoundland Regiment. The cadets explored the trenches and gained a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by soldiers from across the Commonwealth.
Evening – The Last Post Ceremony, Menin Gate
On returning to Ypres, the squadron took part in the Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate, a deeply moving daily ritual held in honour of the fallen. This was a special moment for the group, as both cadets and staff had the honour of laying wreaths on behalf of 1064 Squadron. The solemnity and reverence of the ceremony left a lasting impression on all involved.
Day 4 – Return Journey and Battle of Britain Memorial
As the tour drew to a close, the group made their way back toward the Channel. On the return journey to the UK, the final stop was the Battle of Britain Memorial just outside Dover, overlooking the English Channel. This poignant site commemorates the RAF personnel who fought in the skies above Britain during 1940. Cadets had the opportunity to reflect on the evolution of warfare from the trenches of WWI to the air battles of WWII.
Operation Flanders Fields was a highly successful and meaningful experience for 1064 Squadron. It not only enriched the cadets’ historical knowledge but also reinforced values of respect, remembrance, and citizenship. The conduct of all participants was exemplary throughout, and the emotional impact of the tour will no doubt stay with them for years to come.
"The experience that this trip has given our staff and cadets will stay with them forever. If it means that even one of them brings their children in the future to keep the memory of the sacrifice that so many gave alive, then it is absolutely worth it. Behind every headstone and name there is a story, the very soil they’ve trodden on this week is sacred to our country. It’s the least we can do for what the did and gave."
Sqn Ldr James Kyberd
Officer Commanding 1064 (Honiton) Sqn ATC