“This trip showed me family isn’t always about blood” – Salford Cadets’ overseas exchange an unforgettable experience

Cadets from Salford joined an international exchange to Gibraltar, taking part in warfare exercises in historic WWII tunnels.

The Greater Manchester Army Cadet Force joined the Royal Gibraltar Regiment Cadet force in August, sending six cadets and three adult staff members to the British Overseas Territory.

This was many of the cadets’ first time abroad, during the week they took part in military training, scuba diving, flight simulation, and even subterranean warfare exercises in Gibraltar’s historic WWII tunnels.

Lance Corporal Hindle, one of the Salford cadets who took part, said: “Going to Gibraltar was a very memorable experience where I learnt a lot of new things like fieldcraft in a cave and flight simulation with the air cadets. My favourite part was the subterranean warfare training in the tunnels with the Gibraltar cadet instructors.

“The trip opened my eyes to different cultures and lifestyles away from home, and gave me a different perspective of how people live abroad. Being away from my usual routine at home helped me appreciate the discipline and teamwork.

“Being adopted, I’ve always known people live differently, and this trip showed me that family isn’t always about blood. On this trip I have made plenty of memories and friends that I will keep for life and that I will carry with me forever.”

Paul Dennett, the City Mayor of Salford supported the Salfordians to gain these places with his donation. He said: “I’m proud that Salford City Council could support this incredible opportunity for our young people. This trip gave them the chance to grow, learn, and see the world in a new way. It’s about investing in their future, and helping them realise just how much they’re capable of.”

The trip was part of a formal alliance between the two cadet forces, GMACF and the Royal Gibraltar Regiment Cadet Force, the alliance was first signed in 2019, and sees cadets from each region visit one another every other year. Next year, the Gibraltar cadets will travel to Greater Manchester.

The Greater Manchester Army Cadet Force is the largest uniformed youth organisation in the North West, they sent 30 cadets and nine adult volunteers on the overseas exchange.