Long Eaton Air Cadets took part in the annual Albert Ball parade, in memory of Captain Albert Ball, their World War I fighter ace and Victoria Cross recipient, on the 7th May. The parade was attended by 13 Cadets and 4 members of Staff from 2195 (Long Eaton) Squadron Air Training Corp, with Cadet Flight Sergeant Damien Simpson parading the Squadron Banner.
It was held at the Nottingham Castle and was attended by Air Cadets from across Nottinghamshire. The Parade is held every year on the anniversary Albert Ball’s disappearance in France on the evening of 7th May 1917 after taking off for an evening offensive patrol over the Arras Front. His Victoria Cross was awarded, posthumously, a month later to mark his heroic achievements.
The parade was led by Squadron Leader Wilson, and was formed up in front of Captain Ball’s memorial statue in the castle grounds, where a short service and a minute silence was held. This was followed by March Past, with the salute being taken by assembled dignitaries.
The parade is of a particular significant to 2195 (Long Eaton) Squadron as Captain Ball was a student a Trent Collage, one of their local schools. Cadet Lani Diggle said “I really enjoyed being part of the parade, as it was my first time, and it is a nice way to pay respect to a local hero.”
