21/10/2026
Today, on Trafalgar Day, we remember the Battle of Trafalgar on 21 October 1805, and the courage, service and sacrifice of those who fought.
Last Wednesday, we held an event at Acres Engineering Ltd to mark the occasion, bringing people together to reflect on this important part of our naval history and the lessons it still offers today.
A special thank you to Commander Sacha Brooks, Commanding Officer of HMS Sherwood, the Royal Naval Reserve unit in Nottingham, for joining us. Thank you also to Bruce Spencer for organising the event, and to everyone who helped make it possible.
Well done also to Warwick Prince for reciting the Exhortation before the minute’s silence and the Kohima Epitaph afterwards, helping us pause to remember and honour those who served and sacrificed.
Reflecting on Trafalgar, We were struck by the preparation behind the sailors performance. Alongside Nelson’s leadership, the crews relied on training, discipline and teamwork. Repeated gun drills developed their skill and coordination, with every sailor playing a part and depending on those around them. For me, that provides a meaningful connection to Continual Improvement in Manufacturing. Skills develop through training and practice. Teams grow stronger through trust, clear communication and shared purpose. The preparation we put in every day shapes how we perform when it matters.
It was a privilege to take time together to remember Trafalgar, honour those who served and reflect on what we can still learn from them.
We would also like to recognise the East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association, East Midlands Regional Defence & Security Cluster and the Derbyshire Defence Employer Network - EM RFCA CEEG for their work connecting employers with the Armed Forces community, helping businesses understand and support the valuable contribution of reservists, veterans and cadet force adult volunteers. Kirstie Frederick
