London Bound

The City of London...

...Was the destination of cadets and staff from 2433 (Ramsgate and Manston) Squadron on Friday 1st July 2016.

The reason for the visit was to allow the Sqn to carry out its first public duties with the Worshipful Company of Firefighters (WCoFF) with whom 2433 Sqn was affiliated earlier in the year.

2433 Sqn were invited by the WCoFF to attend their annual Common Hall where the new Master and Officers of the Company are elected and installed. The Sqn was also invited to the Service of Re-dedication. These events epitomise the ceremony and traditions with which The City of London and City Livery Companies are so closely connected.

Our day, however, began at the Imperial War Museum in Lambeth. As part of the day in London the party visited the museum, which was especially poignant as the visit was taking place on the Centenary of the Battle of the Somme in World War 1.

Following the IWM visit, the party travelled to Insurance Hall, the home of the WCoFF. 2433 Sqn were proud to provide a guard for the incoming Master and Officers and were thanked by them for attending. It was our great pleasure.

Following refreshments, 2433 Sqn cadets and staff escorted the assembled Company through the streets of The City to the Church of St. Mary-le-Bow, familiar to all true Cockneys! A moving service of re-dedication was held where the Master, Liverymen and Freemen retook their oaths. 2433 Sqn were pleased to meet the Chaplain to the Company, Revered George Bush, who hails from Broadstairs and was schooled at Chatham House in Ramsgate. A buffet was served after the service.

2433 Sqn would like to thank the WCoFF for their hospitality during the day as well as the crews of Dowgate Fire Station for their assistance. Particular thanks go to the Clerk of the WCoFF, Mr Steven Tamcken, for his hard work in making this event such a success.

It was a great day for 2433 Sqn and we very much look forward to the coming year and working with them again in both The City and at Manston.