the_matelot said:
I'm happy to say that I'm in the 50% of SR's that have never been in the cadets.... I'm sure they do a good job and all that but having experienced some of the fcukers and their attitudes to everything, I do not want them in my part of ship. Yes, I know there is bad eggs in all walks of life but having seen Sea Cadet Instructors (the ones who have never been in the forces...) marching with no epaulettes and no headgear on a naval establishment angers me. Especially when Sea Cadet instructors salute me. I'm a Senior Rate FFS!!!
Being involved with cadets now, after 20 years in the RNXS and RNR, I can see where you are coming from, but I don't agree with what you are saying. Yes, I've seen SCC S/Rs in the Mess at Excellent (as was!) looking out of place, but its not their decision that adult instructors start as POs. It clearly says SCC on their epaulettes, and if they are wandering about without them, and even saluting S/Rs, then that is a fault in their training - which is an RN responsibility.
The various cadet organisations are a real bonus for recruiting, give the cadets great opportunities and these days are often the only exposure whole families get to the Armed Forces. There are three generations out there with no knowledge or experience of the Services and this does not bode well for our future support from the public when politicians feel like cutting costs - again!
Equally, although many ex cadets may not join the Regulars or Reserves, at least they will have a positive attitude to them. This cannot be achieved if people follow what matelot is suggesting and have nothing to do with them.