Riverwood Hornets Represent Australia
“The opportunity to perform in such a significant event and to stand where history was made is an honour
that words cannot fully capture”
Captain Chris Bailey – Riverwood Cadet Unit Commanding Officer
Riverwood Hornets Marching Band Honoured to Represent Australia in 80th Anniversary of D-Day Landings
For immediate release.
Riverwood, Australia – June 16, 2024 – The Riverwood Hornets Marching Band, proudly part of the Australian Cadet Corps, has returned from a momentous trip to Normandy, France, where they participated in the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings and the Liberation of France. The Riverwood Hornets were the only Australians present at this historic event, representing the 3,300 Australians who played a crucial role in the invasion.
The band’s itinerary was filled with significant performances and commemorative activities. On June 6th, the Riverwood Hornets performed at The American Cemetery in Brittany, honouring the fallen soldiers with a poignant musical tribute. The following day, June 7th, saw the band captivating audiences with a concert performance in Sainte-Mère-Église, a town that holds historical significance as one of the first to be liberated by Allied forces. Their participation culminated on June 9th with a memorable performance in the 80th anniversary parade in Sainte-Mère-Église, showcasing their talents and paying homage to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought during the D-Day Landings.
In addition to these performances, the band undertook several visits to key historical sites. They paid their respects at Omaha and Utah Beaches, where they performed their own commemorative services, reflecting on the courage and resilience displayed during the landings. The Riverwood Hornets also visited Gold Beach and the town of Arromanches, immersing themselves in the local festivities and connecting with the broader narrative of the liberation.
After their impactful time in Normandy, the Riverwood Hornets continued their journey to Paris, where they played a concert with other bands from the parade at Le Jardin d’Acclimatation. The band also took the opportunity to explore several iconic French landmarks including the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Mont Saint-Michel, and the Louvre. They concluded their trip with a delightful day at Disneyland Paris before returning home.
“The opportunity to perform in such a significant event and to stand where history was made is an honour
that words cannot fully capture,” said Captain Chris Bailey, the Unit Commander of the Riverwood Hornets.
“We are deeply proud to have represented Australia and to have paid tribute to the 3,300 Australians who
participated in the D-Day Landings. This experience has been profoundly moving and educational for our
band members.”
For more information about the Riverwood Hornets Marching Band and their participation in the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings, please contact:
Captain Chris Bailey
Commanding Officer – Riverwood Hornets Cadet Unit
Email: c.bailey@cadets.org.au
Phone: +61 414 467 987
Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557570436605
Deputy Commissioner Jonathon Wilkins
Deputy Commissioner of Operations
Email: j.wilkins@cadets.org.au
Phone: +61 400 994 705
About Riverwood Hornets Marching Band
The Riverwood Hornets Marching Band is a distinguished ensemble within the Australian Cadet Corps, dedicated to musical excellence and community service. The band provides young musicians with opportunities to develop their talents, participate in significant events, and represent Australia on the world stage.
Address from the Commissioner
The Commissioner offered the following address on 20th June 2024.
Dear Cadets, Officers, and Supporters of the Australian Cadet Corps,
It is with immense pride and honour that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Riverwood Hornets Cadet Unit on their recent outstanding achievement. Representing Australia on such a prestigious platform is a testament to your dedication, hard work, and the unwavering spirit that defines the Australian Cadet Corps.
The news of your exemplary performance has resonated throughout our entire community, filling us with an overwhelming sense of pride. Each one of you has demonstrated exceptional discipline, integrity, and respect – the very core values that we uphold and strive to instil in all our members.
Your success is not just a reflection of your individual efforts but also a shining example of what can be accomplished when we work together as a team. The Riverwood Hornets have set a new benchmark of excellence, and your achievements will inspire countless cadets across Australia to aim higher and push beyond their limits.
As members of the Australian Cadet Corps, you have shown that with determination and a strong sense of purpose, we can achieve greatness. Your dedication to representing our nation with honour and distinction serves as a beacon of inspiration for us all.
On behalf of the entire Australian Cadet Corps, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Riverwood Hornets for their exceptional representation of our values and our country. We are incredibly proud of you, and we look forward to celebrating many more achievements together in the future.
Congratulations once again, and thank you for making us all proud.
On behalf of the Committee,
Trent Aylward
Commissioner
Australian Cadet Corps Inc.