Military Knowledge: Barbados Cadet Corps History

Barbados Cadet Corps (BCC) Overview

• Established in 1904 at The Lodge School by Captain Radcliffe Hall, the BCC is one of the oldest youth organizations in Barbados.
• The initial focus was on using military discipline to build character in young boys aged 12 and above; now includes both boys and girls.
• Affiliated with the Barbados Volunteer Force in 1909, initially including cadet companies from three schools.

Key Developments

• Introduction of Females: In 1974, four female students from Combermere School broke a 70-year tradition by becoming full members.
• Expansion of Companies: In 1978, Ellerslie Secondary School established a fourth company, leading to growth in the early 1980s at nearly all secondary schools on the island.
• Establishment of Cadet Headquarters: Formed in 1986 to support expanding companies, managed by Major H Maynard.
• Sea Cadet Programme: Started in January 1993 to offer senior cadets maritime training at HMBS Pelican, enhancing skills for a water-surrounded country.
• Band and Medical Programme: Expanded in 1998 to include various school bands and initiated a Medical programme in 2007, training cadets in medical skills.

Administration Structure

• The BCC is administered by the Barbados Defence Force.
• Chief of Staff: Brigadier Carlos Lovell; Commandant: Commander David Dowridge.
• Headquarters located at Cherry Tree Cottage, Garrison, St. Michael.
• Major Alfred Taylor serves as the Cadet Executive Officer, overseeing daily management supported by full-time Training Officers.

Battalion Structure

• Comprised of five battalions: three infantry, one special units, one sea cadet division.
  • Battalion 1: Infantry, Commander Major Philip Eno.
  • Battalion 2: Infantry, Commander Major Rodney Millington.
  • Battalion 3: Infantry, Commander Major Michael Boyce.
  • Battalion 4: Special Units, Commander Major Len Cummins.
  • Battalion 5: Sea Cadet Division, Commander Lieutenant Commander Robert Morris.

Companies within Battalions

• Battalion 1:

  • No. 5 Alleyne School
  • No. 6 Coleridge and Parry School
  • No. 7 Frederick Smith Secondary School
  • Others include Grantley Adams Memorial and Queen’s College.

• Battalion 2:

  • No. 1 Harrison College
  • No. 3 Combermere School
  • Others include St. George Secondary School and St. Leonard’s Boys’ Secondary School.

• Battalion 3:

  • No. 2 The Lodge School
  • No. 9 Parkinson Memorial School
  • Includes Technical, Engineering, Digital Unit (TED).

• Battalion 4:

  • Comprises Cadet Medical Unit, Catering Unit, and others.

Chain of Command

• Established hierarchy ensures organization and efficiency, enabling clear communication and accountability throughout the BCC.

This quiz explores the historical significance of the Barbados Cadet Corps, one of the oldest youth organizations in Barbados, established in 1904. Test your knowledge on its formation, key figures, and development over the years.