St Margaret’s students visit Normandy to commemorate D-Day

Five students from St Margaret’s Church of England Academy had the chance to take part in this year’s D-Day commemoration parades in Normandy.

The students who are part of the RAF Air Cadets 2359 (Woolton) squadron, as well as 90, 7F and 1913 squadrons, were given the opportunity to meet veterans of the D-Day landings whilst also visiting museums and memorials across five of the landing beaches.

The highlight of the trip for the cadets was being invited to march with veterans and other armed forces from across the world.

Year 10 student, SGT Thomas Wilson and Year 9 student, CPL Carl Hughes were appointed as banner bearers alongside the Normandy Veteran Association and Royal British and French Legions.

Thomas Wilson said: “This was the opportunity of a lifetime. To be able to spend time with those who were prepared to give their lives for ours was very moving and we were all very honoured to meet them.”

Commanding Officer Flt Lt Phyll Whitfield from 2359 (Woolton) Air Training Corps, said: “It is important that the youth of today remember and understand what went on in World War II. The best possible way to understand is to visit the museums and cemeteries to see the loss. Listening and interacting with the veterans is also important. We will remember them!”

Principal Stephen Brierley, said: “Our students have had a fantastic opportunity to go over and watch this year’s D-Day commemoration parades. Now they’re back in school, they’ve hardly stopped telling their teachers and friends all about it – which can only help all of us understand more about how much our forebears gave for our freedom today.

“Well done to them, and many thanks to the Air Cadets for giving them such an amazing opportunity.”