A Fun Day Out
– Sandhurst Military Academy –

Note: Clicking on any of the photographs will enlarge them

Following the prize draw done on 15th July, we arrived at Sandhurst Military Academy, on 5th August where we noticed a few dark clouds. Strange phenomenon with spots of rain turned into a heavy downpour, although still very warm. It soon stopped raining and the four prize-winning guests were welcomed by Carol close to the parade ground. Front row seats for the absolute precision final dress rehearsal for the actual Passing Out Parade the following Friday, the parade lasted about an hour accompanied by a military brass band. We were treated to different marching styles, some slow, the others at normal pace, with Regimental Sergeant Majors barking out orders to the various companies’ all in front of the original building (Old College), built circa 1808. The first officers to graduate from Sandhurst took part in the battle of Waterloo. At the end of the parades the Commandant addressed all of the cadets reminding them that they have all been trained as leaders of men/women and they should always take what they have learnt during their training not just in battle, but into their civilian lives as well. As the cadets left the parade ground, into the main front entrance of Old College we watched in some amazement that the horses ridden by the most senior officers also went up the steps and through the door as well – not often you see horses going through front doors!

Following this, we were treated to a a very interesting informal tour of the Old College and the two on-site chapels by former army officer, Richard Anderson and also a former trustee of the Sandhurst Trust, who entertained us with stories of his life at Sandhurst. A wonderful champagne picnic lunch by the somewhat dried-up lake in the grounds followed with Richard continuing to entertain us with stories from his army career. Everyone agreed it has been a lovely and very interesting day.

My thanks must also go to Bill Gornal-King, who orchestrated the arrangements for the day and Angie Anderson, together with Victoria Gornal-King, who put together the wonderful picnic.

I also mustn’t forget the 3rd prize winner, who was the highly pleased recipient of the Nespresso Coffee machine with the accompanying milk frother. All round to hers for a coffee then!

Rod Hamilton-King