A publication that…
Colonel (Ret’d) Peter Germain, Chief Executive, Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Greater London
View from the bridge
I hope you enjoy the articles in this version of London Bridge magazine that showcase some of the many incredible activities of the Reserves and the Cadets this past year. They demonstrate how being part of either force is a vehicle for developing strong leadership, confidence, responsibility and feelings of belonging and self-respect.
“Joining the sea cadets transformed my life”
Leading Cadet Tara Nolan joined the Sea Cadets in 2022 and was recently one of the candidates to be First Sea Lord’s Cadet for 2026.
Soldier first, sportsperson second
When professional Rugby athlete Lauren Brooks isn’t playing for the Harlequins Women, she’s a Reservist with the 151 Royal Logistic Corps (RLC).
London has...
600 Squadron support StormShroud
The RAF has introduced a new uncrewed aircraft to operational service called StormShroud. It is the first of a new…
Reservist to the top
Charlotte Alder joined the Honourable Artillery Company, London in 2019 as a Reservist and is currently employed by KPMG.
Cadet achievements
Army cadets in London have achieved a lot this year, with some being celebrated with awards.
The power of partnership
By supporting our Armed Forces, businesses are not only honouring service but helping to create a more secure lifestyle and a supported society.
Army Boots for Boxing Gloves
In June last year, Corporal Salmon from 101 (City of London) Engineer Regiment (EOD&S) swapped his army boots for boxing gloves to compete in a bout at Troxy in London.
From Classroom to Field
135 Geographic Squadron (Reserve), part of 42 Engineer Regiment (Geographic), delivers vital geospatial intelligence and mapping support to UK Defence.
A look back with Lance Bombardier Walker
Exercise FALCON EYE 3
South West London Army Cadet Force commemorates Arnhem
Recently, cadets and adult volunteers from South West London Army Cadet Force had the opportunity to participate in the 78th Airborne March at Arnhem, Netherlands on Saturday the 6th of September.
Livery companies sign the AFC
What is the Armed Forces Covenant?
Airborne Diehards
In 1947 The Territorial Army (TA) was reformed. Part of that reformation was the creation of 16 Airborne Division (TA). The Divisional Headquarters was based at the Duke of Yorks Headquarters with units based over Greater London. Some existing units converted to the Airborne role. One such unit was the 8th Battalion the Middlesex Regiment (DOC) (TA). Regimentally known as the ‘Diehards’.
Going for Gold
The Networking Reception aimed to assist supportive organisations by developing a positive environment for a collaborative network to develop.
The Lady Mayor’s Show
For the first time in history, this year we saw the Lady Mayor’s Show on the 8th of November. Reserves and Cadets from the region joined the oldest and longest civic procession in the world.
Learning soldier skills in the Namib Desert
This expedition exemplifies what the British Army and its people are excellent at, not only proving our ability to operate everywhere, but also its continuous commitment to the development of its personnel.
YOU London
The annual YOU London Leadership Development Weekend brought together over 100 participants each day from 11 youth organisations.
Waterloo Band & Bugles of the Rifles
Reserve musicians and buglers from the Waterloo Band & Bugles of The Rifles once again supported musical activity in London this year.
Elworthy Trophy
The Elworthy Trophy Competition 2025 took place on Saturday 18th October, bringing together nine teams from the Greater London area and providing them with an opportunity to showcase their skills, teamwork, and spirit.
Silver and Gold Awards
The Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver and Gold Awards took place in the Sovereigns’ Room at the Royal Air Force Club.
HAC Everest Expedition
The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest this year with the UK’s first mixed gender military team.
Medics Military Exercises
Recently, 256 (City of London and South East) Multi-Role Medical Regiment (256 MMR) delivered Exercise Medical Endeavour at the Army Cadet Training Centre in Frimley.
Hainault Army Cadets get an upgrade
The GL RFCA Estate team recently finished planned security and safety upgrades to the Hainault Army Cadet site.
Cadet Music Competition 2025
The Lord Mayor’s Cadet Music Competition 2025 brought cadet bands from the Greater London area and providing them with an opportunity to showcase their musical prowess.