Cadets and adult volunteers from 1064 (Honiton) Squadron and 2019 (Sidmouth) Squadron RAF Air Cadets embarked on an unforgettable educational visit to Normandy, following in the footsteps of the Allied Forces who landed on the beaches of France during Operation OVERLORD in June 1944.
The expedition began with an early morning departure from Honiton before travelling via Portsmouth to Caen by ferry. After arriving in France, the squadron settled into Château du Molay, which provided an ideal base for a packed programme of battlefield visits and historical learning.
The first full day focused on the American sector of the Normandy landings. The group paid their respects at La Cambe German War Cemetery, reflecting on the human cost of conflict from all perspectives before continuing to the historic town of Sainte-Mère-Église, where the story of the US airborne landings came vividly to life.
Cadets then visited Utah Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and Omaha Beach, gaining a first-hand appreciation of the immense challenges faced by Allied forces on D-Day. Standing on the beaches where history was made provided a powerful opportunity to connect classroom learning with the reality of the sacrifices made by thousands of servicemen.
The following day turned attention to the British and Commonwealth sectors. Visits included the Bayeux War Cemetery, Port-en-Bessin, the impressive German gun battery at Longues-sur-Mer, and the Arromanches 360° Cinema, where immersive archive footage brought the events of June 1944 to life. The group also explored Gold Beach before concluding the day at the British Normandy Memorial at Ver-sur-Mer, where the names of more than 22,000 servicemen and women who lost their lives during the Battle of Normandy serve as a lasting reminder of their sacrifice.
Throughout the visit, cadets demonstrated exemplary conduct, curiosity and respect. They engaged thoughtfully with guides, asked insightful questions and reflected on the courage, leadership and resilience shown by those who fought in Normandy.
Beyond the historical education, the trip provided valuable opportunities for teamwork, personal development and international travel, strengthening friendships across the squadron while reinforcing the RAF Air Cadets’ core values of respect, service and citizenship.
Officer Commanding 1064 Squadron, Sqn Ldr James Kyberd, said:
“Visits such as this bring history to life in a way that no classroom ever can. Walking the beaches, standing among the memorials and learning the personal stories behind them helps our cadets understand the true cost of freedom. One of our cadets had the opportunity to visit the grave of a relative and lay a personal tribute to them. Overall our cadet represented the squadron and the RAF Air Cadets with pride throughout the trip, and I hope the experience inspires them to continue remembering those who served and sacrificed for future generations.”
Squadron Leader James Kyberd
Officer Commanding 1064 (Honiton) Squadron
The Normandy expedition builds on 1064 Squadron’s commitment to delivering meaningful fieldcraft and heritage experiences, following the squadron’s successful “Operation Flanders Fields” visit in 2025. By experiencing these historic locations first-hand, cadets gained a deeper understanding of the events that shaped modern Europe while ensuring that the legacy of the D-Day generation continues to be remembered