22/10/2026
🌺 WHY DO AIR CADETS WEAR A POPPY? — WE WILL REMEMBER THEM.
As we approach Remembrance Sunday, cadets at 1206 Squadron Air Training Corps are encouraged to reflect on the meaning of the poppy and why it remains such an important symbol of remembrance.
🌺 Why wear a poppy?
🔴 To remember the fallen. We honour the members of the Armed Forces who gave their lives in conflicts past and present.
🔴 To recognise sacrifice. We remember the courage, dedication and sacrifices of those who served to protect our country and its freedoms.
🔴 To support our Armed Forces community. The Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal helps serving personnel, veterans and their families when they need support.
🔴 To remember civilians too. Conflict affects not only those in uniform, but also innocent civilians and families whose lives are changed forever.
🔴 To reflect on peace. Remembrance is not simply about looking back at war; it is about understanding its human cost and hoping for a more peaceful future.
As Air Cadets, wearing a poppy is a simple but meaningful way to show respect for those who served before us, those who serve today, and those who never returned home.
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM. 🌺
✈️ HOW SHOULD AIR CADETS WEAR THEIR POPPY?
Here is a simple guide for our cadets during parade nights and Remembrance events.
1️⃣ Parade nights in uniform
Wear your poppy neatly and securely on the uniform, immediately above the right breast pocket where applicable.
Use the appropriate paper poppy or authorised enamel poppy for your order of dress.
Ensure it is straight, secure and does not detract from your smart appearance.
2️⃣ Remembrance Sunday and formal parades
Wear a traditional paper poppy with ceremonial dress and on parades.
Position it immediately above the right breast pocket, preferably through the buttonhole where available.
Check that it is secure before falling in.
3️⃣ Working dress
An authorised traditional paper poppy or a plain enamel poppy badge, no larger than 2.5 cm (1 inch), may be worn where permitted by the uniform regulations and working environment.
4️⃣ Remember the important rules
Wear only one poppy on the outermost garment.
Do not attach a poppy to your beret or other headgear.
Do not wear a poppy on your foul-weather jacket (geltex).
🌺 A final thought: The poppy is a small symbol, but its meaning is immense. Wear it with pride, understand what it represents, and take a moment to remember 1206 Squadron Air Training Corps — Remembering the past. Respecting the present. Inspiring the future.
Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Staffordshire Wing Air Cadets
