VE80Day Spotlight: Humberside and South Yorkshire Army Cadet Force
Humberside and South Yorkshire Cadets Lead Historic Policy Change for War Graves Conservation
In 2024, Captain Vicki Brooks and the Humberside and South Yorkshire Army Cadet Force (HSY ACF) achieved a ground-breaking milestone, becoming the first UK youth group to participate as Eyes On, Hands On (EOHO) Volunteers with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC). This achievement, celebrated as part of VE80 Day preparations in 2025, stems from a two-year campaign led by Cadet Force Adult Volunteer Captain Brooks to amend CWGC policy, enabling under-18s to engage in war graves conservation and research.
First Steps
The initiative began with a conversation between Captain Brooks and the Victoria Cross Trust, leading to successful pilot sessions in Doncaster and Sheffield. Cadets mapped and recorded the condition of Commonwealth war graves, demonstrating the potential of youth involvement. Captain Brooks’ vision prompted the CWGC to revise its national policy, formally recognising HSY ACF as EOHO Volunteers. On their first official session, cadets, guided by Captain Brooks and Staff Sergeant Instructor Rebecca Montgomery, inspected and cleaned 39 graves across three cemeteries, ensuring the fallen are honoured with respect.
Marking Remembrance
This pioneering effort aligns with VE80 Day celebrations, marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe on 8 May 2025. HSY ACF’s work preserves the memory of those who sacrificed their lives, fostering values of respect and community service among young people.
Captain Brooks aims to make this a legacy programme, ensuring veterans’ stories endure. As VE80 Day approaches, HSY ACF’s collaboration with the CWGC underscores the importance of remembrance, connecting today’s youth with the sacrifices of the past.