William Leefe Robinson (VC) Memorial Inter-Platoon Marching Competition

In keeping with its proud tradition of honouring courage, leadership, and service, Bishop Cotton Boys’ School conducted the inaugural William Leefe Robinson (VC) Memorial Inter-Platoon Marching Competition on 23rd January 2026 at the First Eleven Field—a landmark event in the school’s NCC calendar.

William Leefe Robinson, VC (14 July 1895 – 31 December 1918), an illustrious Old Cottonian, was the first pilot to shoot down a German Zeppelin over Britain during the First World War. For this extraordinary act of gallantry, he was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration for valour in the face of the enemy. Significantly, he remains the first individual to receive the VC for action carried out on British soil.

Born in Coorg, India, Robinson was educated at Bishop Cotton Boys’ School, Bengaluru, where he studied approximately between 1904 and 1908. It was during these formative years that the foundations of discipline, courage, and character—hallmarks of a Cottonian education—were laid. This memorial competition stands as a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy and supreme sacrifice.

The competition was reviewed by the Principal, Mr Alistair R. A. Freese, who served as the Reviewing Officer, lending dignity and ceremonial gravitas befitting the occasion.

The programme commenced with a welcome address and the introduction of the judges by the compère, Mrs Evelyn Sumana, whose poised and confident compering set the tone for the proceedings. The distinguished panel of judges comprised:

• Brigadier P. C. Joseph
• Colonel Hubert Soans (OC)
• Sub Major Simon John

Invoking God’s blessings, Mrs Priscilla Shanti Dias read from the Holy Scriptures, followed by a prayer offered by Mrs Latha Martin, seeking divine guidance for the school and the smooth conduct of the competition.

The Army Wing cadets, under the command of Sgt Vishal and Sgt Vedhanth, marched with exemplary precision and discipline, executing the Drill Square Test and a special drill that reflected rigorous training and unity of command.
The Naval Wing cadets, led by Sgt Rithwik, followed with a disciplined and synchronised Drill Square Test performance.
The Air Wing cadets, under the command of Sgt Ben Dhayal, marched smartly to the centre of the field and presented an impressive drill marked by coordination, confidence, and esprit de corps.

The results of the competition were announced by the Vice-Principal, Mr Divyanathan, as follows:

• First Place – Army Wing
• First Runners-up – Air Wing
• Second Runners-up – Naval Wing

Individual excellence and leadership were recognised with the following honours:

• Best Cadet – Army Wing: Sgt Vishal
• Best Cadet – Air Wing: Sgt Ben Dhayal
• Best Cadet – Naval Wing: Sgt Rithwik

The Vote of Thanks was proposed by the Vice-Principal, following which the ceremony concluded with the National Anthem, solemnly rendered by the School Brass Band under the leadership of Mr Louis Alexander and Mr Thirukumaran.

A special word of appreciation is extended to our dedicated Associate NCC Officers—Mr Jacob Robertson Tilak (Air Wing) and Mr Vijay Sampson (Naval Wing)—for their unwavering commitment to training, mentoring, and nurturing the cadets. Most importantly, sincere gratitude is accorded to ANO Mr Wilson Sampathkumar (Army Wing), whose tireless efforts, meticulous planning, and quiet leadership ensured that the competition was organised and conducted with precision, discipline, and excellence.

As cadets marched in disciplined formation on the grounds of Bishop Cotton Boys’ School, they walked in the symbolic footsteps of William Leefe Robinson, VC. This solemn and inspiring competition not only commemorated an extraordinary Old Cottonian but also reaffirmed the timeless values of courage, discipline, and duty that continue to define the Cottonian spirit.

NEC DEXTRORSUM, NEC SINISTRORSUM

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