Ridley’s Historic Cadet Inspection & Church Parade
By Isla Poustie ’26, Staff Writer; Edited by Isabella Perco ’26, Staff Editor
Ridley’s student body headed out on Saturday, April 26th, for the annual Cadet Inspection and Church Parade. Ridley College Cadet Corps No. 162 RCACC welcomed many esteemed guests to the inspection with HCol (Ret’d) Fredrick P. Mannix ’60 as the Inspecting Officer. It has been a long-lasting tradition at Ridley, with this year being our 116th year! Dating back to 1908, this tradition encompasses our school model, ‘Terar Dum Prosim’ (May I be consumed in service). It pays respect to Ridley’s past cadets who gave up their lives for our country. This event has the cadets perform tasks such as marching and following commands. The cadets did very well in the inspection, with the troops demonstrating their marching and discipline, and the band showcasing their excellence.
There was a great turnout with many families and friends coming to watch the parade and inspection. People even came out on their porches and the sidewalks to see the parade when it marched through the community. At the beginning and end of the parade, when the band passed through the Marriott Gates, the mace was thrown over in the hopes it would be caught for good luck. This year, it was caught both times it was thrown! Hopefully, that will give all our students good luck going into the end of the year and exams!
Although it was cold and windy, with some hats being blown away, all the cadets did very well. Great job to everyone who participated and helped prepare such an impressive event, including the Cadet leadership team and Captain Vince Giovannini. We hope to see everyone next year!
