On 30th July 2025, Matt Waddingham (Cadman Cranes Managing Director) and Philip Maxwell (Milbank Group Facilities Manager) proudly represented Milbank Group at the Essex Army Cadet Force (ACF) Annual Camp, held at the Ministry of Defence training area in Colchester.
The Army Cadet Force is a dynamic youth organisation for 12–18-year-olds, and our local detachment, D Company, is based in Colchester, drawing young people from surrounding districts. As signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant, we were honoured to be invited to attend the visitors’ day alongside the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Mrs Jennifer Tolhurst, the MP for Braintree, Sir James Cleverly, serving military personnel, and fellow local business leaders.
A Day of Insight and Inspiration
The visit began with a compelling introduction from Commandant Colonel Pete Mills ACF, who shared valuable insights into the structure, achievements, and challenges faced by the Essex ACF. This was followed by a guided tour of the camp, where guests engaged with cadets as they took part in a range of activities including fieldcraft, first aid, weapons handling, and navigation.
Many of the cadets were attending their very first camp and for some, it was their first extended stay away from home. The dedication of the volunteer adult instructors was evident throughout, as they supported the cadets through an immersive, confidence-building experience.
It was inspiring to witness how strongly the cadets embodied the British Army’s core values: Courage, Discipline, Respect, Integrity, Loyalty, and Selfless Commitment.
Developing the Leaders of Tomorrow
Essex ACF in partnership with The Cadet Vocational College are breaking new ground with a pioneering initiative that enables senior cadets to study for the City & Guilds ILM Level 3 qualification in Leadership and Management. This programme equips cadets with essential skills for future careers and gives them a valuable qualification to include on their CVs, alongside the extensive soft skills developed during their time in the ACF.
Our Commitment to the Community
Milbank Group’s Colchester-based companies are proud to be supporting D Company of the Essex ACF. Through this partnership, we aim to help young cadets develop key life skills, from leadership and teamwork to communication and personal responsibility, while fostering values that align closely with our own.
By investing in these young people, we are not only supporting a vibrant and purposeful youth movement but also helping to nurture the next generation of community-minded, capable individuals.