The Bermuda Sea Cadet Corps is stepping into the new training year with a fresh look, thanks to the rollout of the Royal Navy Personal Clothing System (RNPCS) rig over the summer. This modern uniform replaces the long-standing “Number 4 rig”, in use for over 30 years, and aligns the Corps with current Royal Navy standards, reinforcing its proud naval heritage.
Featuring the Royal Navy White Ensign badge and “Royal Navy” proudly displayed on the chest, alongside the “Cadet Forces” designation, the RNPCS rig is now worn by all Cadets and uniformed adult volunteers. While formal RN-style uniforms remain for ceremonial events, the RNPCS rig will be the new standard for daily training.
The upgrade was coordinated alongside the UK Sea Cadets, with Chairman of the Bermuda Sea Cadet Association, Peter Donnellan and Sue Outerbridge, Chair of the Unit Management Committee, leading the effort to secure and distribute the new gear.
“Uniform is a vital part of the Sea Cadet ethos, and one of the most significant expenses.” said Mr. Donnellan. “Thanks to fundraising efforts from the Cadets and their families, our generous donors, and support from our UK counterparts, we’ve outfitted the Corps with high-quality gear at excellent value, including drill boots, to ensure that they look their best on parade. Well worth it!” Mrs Outerbridge agreed, saying, “the new uniform looks great, and really makes us feel like we are part of the Royal Navy family, and the Cadets are especially proud of that!” BSCC Development Officer, Sub-Lieutenant (SCC) Sam Bennett, RNR also highlighted the uniform’s durability and comfort, noting that it is ideal for active Sea Cadet training, including boating, seamanship, and drill.
Lieutenant Commander (SCC) Michael Frith, RNR, the Commander of the Bermuda Sea Cadet Corps, praised the positive impact on Cadet morale, noting their pride and attention to detail in maintaining the new kit. “With this new look we can already see how great it makes them feel. They are proud to be wearing it – and rightly so!”
Cadets echoed that sentiment: “It’s comfortable, well-designed, and I love all the pockets,” said Ordinary Cadet Lexie Taylor, and Able Cadet Oca-Ray Brown added, “Sewing the badges was a lot of work, but totally worth it – it looks great!”.
The Bermuda Sea Cadet Corps kicks off its training year on Friday, 5 September, and will host a recruitment night on Friday, 12 September at 7:00 p.m. at the TS Admiral Somers Sea Cadet building at 2 Convict Bay Lane, St George’s. Girls and boys aged 10+ (or turning 10 before 31 December) are welcome. For more info, email bermudaseacadets@gmail.com or tsadmiralsomers@hotmail.com.
Bermuda Sea Cadet Corps – Background notes
The Bermuda Sea Cadet Corps is a wholly voluntary uniformed youth organization. Its mission is to inspire Bermuda’s young people to achieve their potential through challenge and nautical adventure guided by the customs and traditions of today’s Royal Navy. T.S.(Training Ship) Admiral Somers is the name of the St. George’s Unit (and the only Unit currently operating), based at Convict Bay Lane, St. George’s, and is made up of female and male Cadets (ages 12-18) and Junior Cadets (ages 10-12), uniformed adult volunteer officers and senior rates, and civilian adult volunteers.
Training takes place every Friday evening from 6:30 to 9:30p.m. and incorporates a wide variety of nautical themed activities including: seamanship, drill and ceremonial, leadership development, cooking, first aid, physical training and practical skill building. In the summer months outdoor activities including sailing, rowing, powerboat handling, kayaking, swimming and camping.
Community Service is also an important part of being a Sea Cadet, and activities include participation in various community events throughout the year, including providing a ceremonial guard for various formal parades (Remembrance Day, King’s Birthday, Midshipman Dale ceremony, Pilot Jemmy Darrell Memorial and others).
