Royal Navy Trafalgar Dinner

Cadets attended the Royal Navy Trafalgar Dinner, one of the Royal Navy’s oldest and most prestigious traditions, on 7 December in the School Hall. Commemorating the famous Battle of Trafalgar and the death of Lord Nelson, the dinner is also held to remember sailors and marines all over the UK. Traditionally a grand affair, we’re delighted to share CPO Year 13’s Ewan’s speech.

Good evening, everyone. I’m not really one for speeches but, regardless, I decided I’d give it my best effort for tonight which led me to consider what Trafalgar Night means to me.

I think, primarily, it’s an opportunity to give thanks. So, consequently, I’d like to extend my personal thanks to all the officers and instructors present here tonight. The dedication and time you all spend for the CCF allows us to flourish not only as cadets, but as people.

Special thanks must of course be extended to Mr. Smith, who has remained a much-needed constant in the Navy, and has personally been one of the biggest mentors for me in my time at Woodbridge, even if he may not know it. Every year I not only look forwards to his command task in the Trower Trophy, an event that assuredly challenges our cadets time and time again, but also – his excellent skill on the grill during overnight trips, a talent I regrettably haven’t gotten to experience recently.

Of course, thanks must also be given to Mrs. Saagi, whose refreshing candour and inspired leadership has made my time as a senior cadet very easy. I’m incredibly excited to see how the Navy section will blossom under her direction going forward.

Tonight, we’re gathered not only to give thanks and celebrate the CCF but also to remember the Battle of Trafalgar, a defining moment in naval history. Admiral Nelson’s courage and his belief in duty, loyalty, and service have shaped the Royal Navy for over two centuries. And those values remain just as relevant for us here in the Navy section of the CCF.

With that said, Mr. Smith always taught me to approach things like this with nuance, and I recall when he told my class that history often struggles with this ‘Great Man’ syndrome, so as we celebrate Admiral Nelson and his ingenuity, let us also celebrate the 17,000 other men in the British fleet, their endurance and seamanship, and their sacrifice.

As cadets in the Navy section, we get a unique taste of what it means to serve on the sea. Our experiences together have shown us the value of teamwork, trust, and accountability. Whether we’re struggling to lash together a raft, or splashing around in a canoe, we’ve learned to depend on one another, just as sailors have done for generations. Those bonds make us stronger and bring a real sense of pride to everything we do.

I often recall my first time in the drill team. I was so focused on getting everything perfect that instead I made a complete mess of it—arms flailing wide, feet dragging, and everything off time. As you can imagine, my teammates were not exactly pleased! But, regardless, they took the time to sort me out and guide me until I was… less horrendous. That day taught me that being part of the Navy section isn’t about perfection; it’s about learning from mistakes, supporting each other, and growing as a team. I hope these are lessons every cadet can walk away from the Navy Section with.

As we do such and move forward with our lives, we’ll carry with us the resilience, passion, and spirit for collaboration that we’ve developed here. Whether we go on to serve in the armed forces or pursue other aspirations, I know the lessons we’ve learned during our time in the Navy section will stay with us and allow us to tackle any challenge that comes our way.

Thank you once again to everyone who has supported me on this journey. It’s been an honour to lead such an outstanding group of cadets, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to serve as the head of this section. Here’s to Admiral Nelson and his fleet, and here’s to the Royal Navy section. Thank you.