Wolverhampton care home honours Remembrance Day with local cadets
A Wolverhampton care home marked Remembrance Day by welcoming local cadets for a special intergenerational event
Residents and team members at Care UK’s Foxland Grange, on Wergs Road, welcomed cadets from Wolverhampton and Perton Detachment B Company for a unique history lesson with veterans living at the home.
During the visit, they listened to wartime stories shared by residents who lived through, and in some cases served during, the Second World War, before asking questions about what life was like at the time.
Resident David Barnes, who served for more than 22 years in the Royal Air Force (RAF), said: “It’s important that the younger people mark remembrance and know about the war, so it doesn’t happen again.”
Frederick Breedan, who is also a resident at the home and who served in the RAF, said: “Cadets should always get their uniform right and make sure they obey the instructions of their superiors.”
On the day, the veterans also shared words of advice with the cadet group.
Resident John Dale, who joined the army at 18 and trained as a radar operator, said: “Be determined and accept the decisions given to you. Take the rough with the smooth, as it’s not always an easy voyage, but you will get there in the end.
“I guided one of my family members when he was young and went to his passing-out parade, which was great; he’s a major in the Army now.”
Alan Butler, who served in the RAF at 22, said: “My advice is to learn from the blade of grass in the wind; sometimes you just have to go with it.”
Zoe Smart, Home Manager at Foxland Grange, said: “It was incredibly moving to see the interactions between residents and the cadets.
“We often spend time sharing memories and reflecting on the history residents have lived through, including those who have served their country or dedicated years to supporting veterans and the local community. It was wonderful to welcome the cadets and provide an opportunity for generations to come together, share experiences and learn from one another.
“Remembrance Day is about honouring the sacrifices of those who came before us, and this event was a fitting tribute. We want to say a huge thank you to the cadets for joining us – it was truly an inspiring day.”