British Red Cross Society registration certificate

Registration certificate of Isle of Wight cadet unit with the British Red Cross Society Headquarters, 14 March 1945

In 1870, the British National Society for Aid to the Sick and Wounded in War was formed, following the out break of war between France and Prussia. In 1905, it was renamed as the British Red Cross.The junior or young person's division was formed in 1924 and aimed to “promote health, service to the sick and suffering, and develop international friendship and understanding.” Cadets were aged 14 to 17 years of age.

The red cross symbol was first adopted under the Geneva Convention of 1864. It reverses the colour of the Swiss national flag of a white cross on a red background. Those wearing the red cross, crescent or crystal are protected under international law and symbolises they are there to give help. The Geneva Convention forms the basis of how soldiers and civilians should be treated during wartime.