RAF Air Cadets from across the organisation have successfully completed this year’s Nijmegen International Four Days Marches, one of the most demanding and prestigious road marching events in the world. All 99 marchers from the RAF Air Cadets who started the event, cadets and adult staff alike, crossed the finish line after four days of sustained effort, covering an incredible 100 miles alongside 46,000 civilian participants, and 6,000 military personnel from across the world.
The RAF Air Cadets contingent, which included a small support staff team of volunteers drawn from across the organisation, brought together teams from Scotland and Northern Ireland, North, Central and East, London and South East, South West, and Wales and West Regions. Their success reflected months of preparation, disciplined training and the resilience required to meet the physical and mental demands of the marches. Across the teams, cadets and staff completed regular training sessions, qualifying events and final preparations before travelling to the Netherlands to take part in the world-famous challenge.
From arriving in Nijmegen and experiencing its unique atmosphere and international camaraderie, to marching alongside thousands of participants from around the globe, the week provided an unforgettable experience for all involved. It was not always easy: long days, tired legs and repeated challenges tested the teams throughout. However, through preparation, determination and mutual support, they crossed the finish line with pride, having achieved something truly remarkable.
Bristol & Gloucestershire Wing was presented with the Best Air Cadet Team award, while their team leader (WO Ed Smart) received the Best British Forces Team Leader award — recognition that reflected the collective effort, discipline and spirit of the whole team.
This year’s successful completion by all 99 RAFAC marchers is a significant achievement; it is the first time in memory that every RAFAC marcher who started went on to complete the event — a 100% completion rate. That success is a powerful reflection of the hard work, commitment and preparation of all the teams involved. It highlights the strength of regional collaboration, the dedication of volunteer staff and the ability of cadets to rise to a world-class challenge while representing the RAF Air Cadets with pride on the international stage. Every cadet and member of staff should be immensely proud of what they have achieved.
Road marching is not just about endurance, it develops and promotes leadership, followership, communication, resilience, self-reliance, confidence and achievement. If you are a cadet or adult volunteer and fancy giving it a try, speak to your Squadron or school staff and ask then to contact the Wing or Region Road Marching Officer.