Congratulations to our two newest Cadet Warrant Officers from 422 (Corby) Squadron, following successful interview with Wing Commander Wilson.

The first cadet promoted is Cadet Warrant Officer King, who on the Squadron looks after the Blue and Bronze Progressive Training syllabus. She commented “RAFAC has been a large part of my life for the past 5 years and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities it has given me and for the individuals that have supported me throughout this journey.

“My time within the organisation has allowed me to gain skills in communication and leadership, qualities that have helped within the corps and outside, with some of the highlights of my career being RAF Waddington summer camp and the DTC(I) course.

“I feel immensely privileged to be appointed the role of CWO, and I look forward to assisting cadets in my own unit and in the wider wing with their development and journey over the coming years.”

The second cadet promoted is Cadet Warrant Officer Vyse, who has a keen interest in first aid training having successfully completed the Gold First Aid Course earlier this year. On being promoted she said “I am so proud to finally have achieved my younger self’s dream and I am looking forward to helping the future generations achieve theirs.”

We are pleased to announce that Flying Officer Jake Foster has, this month, been appointed as Officer Commanding 504 (West Nottingham) Squadron. We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate him on his new position and wish him the best of luck.

Jake has been an adult volunteer for 6 years, having previously reaching the rank of Cadet Warrant Officer during his Air Cadet career. During his time as an adult volunteer, he has supported both 2418 (Sherwood) and 138 (1^st Nottingham) Squadrons, where he has taken up a range of roles including Training Officer and Adjutant. These will put him in a good position for taking command of his new Squadron.

Beyond the Squadron, Jake is a regular at Wing activities such as Swynnerton Camp where he leads the Gun Run activity. He is also the Course Director of the Wing Initial NCO Course, which will be incredibly useful to aid the development of the cadets on his squadron.

Upon taking up the new post Jake commented “It’s a pleasure to be taking on my new role as OIC 504. The squadron is going from strength to strength and I’m excited for the future of the unit. Having been a cadet myself starting at 2418 (Sherwood) Squadron back in 2011 it’s been an aim to take on a unit of my own. After commissioning in 2017 and having held positions on staff teams at 2418 and 138 it’s going to be brilliant to work with a new and experienced staff team to keep pushing the unit forward and enable the opportunities for our cadets that I was given when I joined the RAFAC.”

As part of our adult volunteer development we offer training for those wishing to transition from a civilian instructor into a uniformed voluntary position in the form of a Pre-Uniform course. This course provides the knowledge as well as training to progress through either the Senior NCO or Commissioned Officer pathway.

This year saw the release of the all new Pre-Uniform course combining two virtual sessions, an on squadron individual learning programme and an in-person weekend course at RAF Wittering. Over the weekend, 10 adult volunteers, wishing to make the move into uniform attended the final part of the Pre-Uniform course at RAF Wittering.

On the course the students consolidated what they learnt from the previous virtual sessions and the development undertaken on squadrons using the Development Matrix. As well as completing further training in leadership and policy, and preparing the students for the Interview and OASC processes.

Squadron Leader Buckingham, Wing Training Officer responsible for Volunteer and Cadet Development, said “it was invigorating to be back delivering face-to-face training, surrounded by such enthusiastic volunteers. The students were fantastic and really bought the new course format to life.”

Earlier this week our very own Sergeant Chouhan and Cadet Sergeant Sheena Chouhan put their lifesaving skills, learnt in the Air Cadets, into action whilst out in the community.

During a normal day out in Belgrave, Leicester Sgt Chouhan, Cadet Sgt Chouhan and nephew/cousin Kieran were witness to an incident, resulting in a woman becoming unconscious and requiring help. All rushed into action following the incident with Sgt Chouhan assessing the woman’s injuries and Cadet Sgt Chouhan managing the scene and getting in touch with the emergency services.

Following Sgt Chouhan putting the woman into the recovery position to keep her air ways open, both Sgt Chouhan and Cadet Sgt Chouhan remained with her until the emergency services arrived to take over. Reflection on the incident Cadet Sgt Chouhan said “Although the situation was nerve-racking, our priority was her safety. I am fortunate for the training I’ve received from Sgt at 1947 (Birstall) Squadron” with Sgt Chouhan’s adding “It all happened so fast however, instinct took over and we were quickly able to work as a team to secure the area and offer the first aid required. I am immensely proud of my daughter and nephew on how they reacted in this type of situation, both remaining calm and acting effectively.”

Following his new appointment Wg Cdr Wilson said “I am privileged and honoured to have been given the opportunity to take this post as Officer Commanding South & East Midlands Wing. I am very much looking forward to working with the Wing in my new role and visiting all of our 28 squadrons at my earliest opportunity.”

Today marks the end of an era for the Wing as we say goodbye to Wing Command Andy Pass and he officially takes up his new post as the Senior Volunteer Advisor, the first volunteer Group Captain role. He moves on from a five year tenure as Officer Commanding South & East Midlands Wing.

During his time in command he has maintained the Wing’s position as one of the consistently top performing wings in the RAFAC and driven a number of successful organisational shifts within the Wing. The changes have moved the Wing into a more supportive structure for the individual units and the volunteers that run them, with a particular passion for sustaining their mental health and providing them recognition for their successes. His final few weeks in command have allowed him to show this passion by visiting a number of squadrons in order to present the many commendations and awards that they have been awarded over the past 18 months.

This era began in 1988 when he joined 2195 (Long Eaton) Squadron within the Wing. As an adult volunteer he commanded a couple of Squadrons before becoming a Wing Staff Officer with a variety of portfolios. He will continue to be regarded as an agent of change within the Wing, never content to rest on his laurels but to continue to deliver a better cadet experience.  In 2016 he became Officer Commanding South & East Midlands Wing, first Acting and then appointed in early 2017. During his leadership the Wing continued to grow and maintain its position as the largest Wing in the RAFAC. Wing Commander Pass was awarded an MBE in the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours.

We would like to wish Group Captain Andy Pass MBE the best of luck in his new role and thank him for the many years of support, guidance and leadership he has given to our Wing.

A group of volunteers based in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, have been honoured with The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK.

1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron is one of over 1,000 squadrons of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets (RAFAC) that offer a wide range of activities, qualifications and opportunities to young people across the country. Squadrons are managed by teams of uniformed and non-uniformed adult volunteers who give their time to help plan, organise and run the array of incredible opportunities that are on offer to the young people.

The volunteers of 1279 (Melton Mowbray) take on a variety of roles from instructors to squadron treasurer in order to facilitate the best possible chances to see the young people develop and also to find opportunity to forge links with their local community. Before lockdown set in, the squadron volunteers had clocked up an additional 1330 hours of activities outside of the 5 hours each week that they give. During lockdown, the volunteers of the squadron continued to provide opportunities to keep connected with the young people resulting in the award of over 100 badges, certificates and qualifications for the cadets. With a team of 18 volunteers across the Cadet Force Adult Volunteers and Civilian Committee, the volunteers go above and beyond to provide the best possible cadet experience for the young people that they work with as well as to ensure great support and links within their local community of Melton Mowbray.

1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron, Royal Air Force Air Cadets, is one of 241 charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award this year. The number of nominations remains high year on year, showing that the voluntary sector is thriving and full of innovative ideas to make life better for those around them. The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by volunteer groups to benefit their local communities. It was created in 2002 to celebrate The Queen’s Golden Jubilee. Recipients are announced each year on 2nd June, the anniversary of The Queen’s Coronation.

Wing Commander Andy Pass RAFAC, Officer Commanding South and East Midlands Wing Royal Air Force Air Cadets, commented, “I am thrilled & delighted that 1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron has been recognised by the award of The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.  The Squadron excels in the delivery of the full cadet experience & there is no question that it’s an outstanding RAF Air Cadet unit of the highest order. Their countless achievements & successes is a testament to the shear hard work and commitment of a dedicated group of staff volunteers and civilian committee members serving the needs of an enthusiastic & motivated group of Air Cadets from across Leicestershire. Of significant mention is the Squadron’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Following suspension of all face-to-face cadet activity, the Squadron was a leading force nationally in the implantation of online activity by running Virtual Parade Nights.”

Representatives of 1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron will receive the award crystal and certificate from Mr Mike Kapur, OBE, Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire later this summer. Furthermore, two volunteers from the group will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace in May 2022 (depending on restrictions at the time), along with other recipients of this year’s Award.

For the cadets of 1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron, Royal Air Force Air Cadets, their recent virtual parade night was no ordinary evening. Whilst it promised to be a fun and challenging night for the cadets, they were joined by a special guest to make the evening that much more memorable.

After being put forward by their Wing Commander back in February to host a special guest during a virtual session, the squadron were informed in early March that they had been selected to host Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Richard Maddison OBE MA RAF. AVM Maddison is the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) 22 Group RAF, which is the part of the RAF that the Air Cadets comes under.

The AOC joined the squadron alongside Wing Commander Andy Pass RAFAC, Officer Commanding South and East Midlands Wing, to get to understand what activities are taking place around the organisation and to get a chance to interact with cadets, to hear their views. However, before the AOC was given the opportunity to take part in a question and answer session with the cadets – he took on a key role for the evening. The cadets were taking part in an Air Cadet/RAF themed ‘Taskmaster’ challenge evening so the AOC stepped in to be the ultimate judge and award the points for the cadets’ efforts throughout the night.

Cadets were put through their paces from finding the best aviation object in their house for the taskmaster; creating the tallest tower in RAF colours; recreating the Corps crest using items from around their house; and attempting to guess and draw the AOC’s favourite RAF aircraft. Whilst he is used to challenging decisions in his day job, this was a new form of the challenge for the Air Vice Marshal. However, the AOC was a tough Taskmaster and critically judged each round to give the cadets the chance to be crowned as the evening’s Taskmaster champion. The competition was tough and it ended up with the difference of one point between first, second and third place!

After the competition had finished, AVM Maddison took time to give the cadets an overview of his career as an RAF officer and helicopter pilot before taking part in a quick-fire question session following by a question and answer session with the cadets. A wide range of questions were explored including the AOC’s favourite postings in the RAF, his advice for those going into the RAF, where he sees the RAF going over the coming years and even which flavour starburst he enjoys!

Flight Lieutenant Dan McGlynn RAFAC, the squadron’s Officer Commanding, commented, “It was a real honour to host the AOC for the evening. He was fully involved in the activity and was an excellent Taskmaster throughout the night. The cadets really appreciated his feedback and involvement during the tasks. His answers during the Q&A session were very insightful and I know helped to inspire the cadets, giving them an insight into what the AOC does. I’m really proud that we’ve been involved in this event and truly proud to be able to show the AOC the incredible young people and volunteers that help to make this organisation.”

Cadet Warrant Officer (CWO) Sam Page, 19, has recently received the accolade of being awarded his Gold Glider Wings, the first set to be issued to any cadet at 1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron. Sam has previously seen a wealth of aviation success from being awarded a Flying Scholarship through the Royal Air Forces Association and then completing a Silver Wings Gliding Scholarship over the past few years. On completion of his Silver Wings training, the CWO was invited to remain with the team at 644 Volunteer Gliding School (VGS) as a Flight Staff Cadet (FSC) and to begin his Gold Wings Glider Training.

The Gold Wings syllabus continues the ground school that the CWO learnt during his Silver Wings Training, a written exam and gliding sorties under instruction. The intense course culminates in five assessed solo sorties. Undertaking his training for almost a year, due to training being on hold throughout most of 2020 due to COVID-19, Sam completed his final solo sortie early October to qualify him for his Gold wings. CWO Page continues to support the VGS as a Flight Staff Cadet and is now aiming for the next steps in his gliding career that will enable him to pass on his gliding knowledge to other cadets!

South & East Midlands Wing adult volunteer, Squadron Leader Alyn Thompson RAFAC, has received an MBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list.

Squadron Leader Thompson commissioned into the RAF Volunteer Reserve (Training) Branch 40 years ag

o, four years later becoming the 7th Officer Commanding of 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron. Following Squadron Leader Thompson having been at the helm for 35 years, Swadlincote is a jewel amongst the Corps’ 950 units, having attracted multiple awards for excellence. Swadlincote won the Morris Trophy for best large unit in the Corps in 2009 and then replicated this feat in 2017, an unprecedented achievement.

During his time in charge of 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron he has been heavily involved in supporting a variety of local, national and international projects. This notably includes setting up a partnership with an African orphanage in Burundi and supporting Aqua Boxes, water purification systems for Third World Countries. As part of this support Squadron Leader Thompson has raised £27,000 for these various causes over the past 10 years.

Alongside his squadron commitments he has played a vital role on the Wing Spring Camp, as Flight Liaison for more than 20 years. In this role he ensures the welfare and morale of the 300 cadets on the camp, enabling the camp to run smoothly and to ensure all cadet have a great experience. Squadron Leader Thompson has also been heavily involved in the International Air Cadet Exchange Programme. Joining the programme in 2003, initially as an Escorting Officer, he now acts as the Lead Officer for the UK element of the programme, a role he very much enjoys.

Already acting as a mentor to generations of cadets and adult volunteers, due to his vast experience and professionalism, Squadron Leader Thompson accepted the Wing post of Sector Commander. A role which enables him to lead and motivate six squadrons with 400 cadets and 70 adult volunteers across Derbyshire and north Leicestershire, allowing him to continue to pass down his experience to the next generation of Commanding Officers.

There are many more achievements and highlights that could be listed in this article from the many achievements and activities Squadron Leader Thompson has completed but his greatest achievement is the long lasting impression he has left on the cadets and staff who have worked with him, so evident when his MBE was listed. On accepting the award Squadron Leader Thompson said “The work that the volunteers do within the Air Cadet Organisation is exceptional and I feel most honoured to be the individual to have been granted this honour.  I have been a member of the organisation since joining as a Cadet 50 years ago and find it gratifying to be granted this for something which I thoroughly enjoy.”

After 16 years, Flight Lieutenant Jackie Lawrence RAFAC has handed over command of Rutland Air Cadet Squadron to Warrant Officer Ian Coates, the newly appointed Commanding Officer.

In April this year, Jackie was promoted to Sector Commander 3 of the South & East Midlands Wing and has since been managing the two roles, she said ‘It has been a rewarding, but challenging time as I have taken on wider responsibility at a time when Covid-19 has had a significant operational impact. I feel confident that Rutland Sqn is in good hands and look forward to working closely with WO Coates, who was previously a staff member on the Sqn.’

Ian Coates said ‘Flt Lt Lawrence has done a remarkable job at Rutland Sqn and I have learned a lot from her. I am excited to take on my new role and further contribute to the success of the squadron.’

Jackie has been a commissioned officer with the Air Cadets for over 30 years and previously commanded two other squadrons in Melton Mowbray and Chester-Le-Street. During this time she has been awarded a Defence Council letter of appreciation and has been presented the Worshipful Company of Framework Knitters Annual Trophy, a Wing award presented to an outstanding member of staff. Rutland is one of seven squadrons Jackie will oversee in her new role.

In a year where we have faced unprecedented challenges it gives us great joy to share the tremendous success of Flt Lt Jade Brock RAFAC. Last month it was announced that she had been shortlisted for a Women in Defence Award in the Outstanding Contribution category. Jade is one of nine to be shortlisted in this category for women across the whole defence industry who have exceeded the expectations of their role, with Jade being the only women shortlisted from the cadet forces.

Jade has been nominated and recently shortlisted for this award for her work as Officer Commanding of 209 (West Bridgford) Squadron. In 2016, Jade took over the unit after the Squadron was consistently towards the bottom of the Wing’s rankings, with cadets an

d staff disinterested. Since then she has driven the unit forward with her energy, enthusiasm and tireless work, transforming the squadron into a class-leading unit offering a fantastic cadet experience. Ultimately culminating in being jointly awarded the Marshall Trophy for the most improved squadron in 2019 (across 960 squadrons). During this time 209’s cadet numbers have been at an all-time high, more the twice the Corps average, and staff morale has never been better.

Starting life as cadet at 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Squadron, Jade progressed to the rank of Cadet Warrant Officer before transitioning to become a volunteer member of staff at the age of 20. Initially she went into uniform as a Senior NCO, where she qualified as a Drill Instructor, alongside supporting the Wing Adult Development Team. Before, in 2015, deciding to commission as a Commissioned Officer with the vision of becoming a Commanding Officer of a squadron.

Since becoming 209 (West Bridgford) Squadron Officer Commanding, in 2016, Jade says she is proud of how far the squadron has come and that it is great to see the it is thriving from both a cadet and staff perspective. The staff team now boasts over 40 qualifications between them a huge increase from just 9 when she took over, helping to provide their impressive cadet experience. Also, Jade is impressed with how the civilian committee has developed providing a strong team to help fundraise for the cadets enabling purchasing of a squadron minibus, musical equipment and MTA kits. On being shortlisted for the award Jade has commented she is “so excited and shocked to not only be nominated, but now also shortlisted in the Outstanding Contribution category. Congratulations to all that have been shortlisted.”

“As a Wing, we are very proud of Jade’s achievements and its fantastic that these have now been recognised by her shortlisting in the Women in Defence Award for Outstanding Contribution. It is a testament to Jade’s commitment to RAF Air Cadets and her devotion to duty as an adult volunteer.” The finalists for the Women in Defence Awards will be announced at the end of October with the winners being announced on 24 March. “We wish her the best of luck in reaching the final and announcement of the winners on 24 March 2021”.

Whilst Cadets were enjoying a Virtual Parade Night of RAF related quiz questions Flt Lt Craig Mills RAFAC was notably absent as he was putting his first aid skills to the test after witnessing and being the first on scene to a serious motorbike accident.

The biker lost control on a sharp bend and collided with the steel guard rail.  He used the first aid skills that he had learnt to go to the aid of the injured biker. Keeping a cool head, he applied his first aid knowledge and stayed with the casualty keeping him talking until paramedics arrived around 45 minutes later. Flt Lt Mills explained everything he had done to the paramedics and was able to pass on the casualty’s details.

“It was quite surreal, but I was just glad that the training I have done kicked in and that I was able to help him,” said Flt Lt Mills RAFAC, who is currently the Commanding Officer of 2195 (Long Eaton) RAF Air Cadets. His quick-thinking actions and ability to keep level-headed in this situation are a testament to the training which Flt Lt Mills RAFAC has received.  All adult volunteers can achieve a RAFAC qualification in first aid as an adult volunteer at Air Cadets.

This year Warrant Officer (WO) Michelle Coles celebrates 30 years in Royal Air Force Air Cadets and has been awarded a Certificate of Meritorious Service for her dedication over these many years.

WO Coles joined 378 (Mannock) Squadron as a cadet on the 17 July 1990. Over the following five years she worked hard as a cadet eventually becoming a Cadet Warrant Officer in February 1995 and leaving cadets when she turned 20 in 1997. She quickly re-joined as a Civilian Instructor at the squadron, helping to deliver the first-class cadet training to new cadets.

In 2004 she successfully passed her board to become appointed as a uniformed adult Sergeant. During her time as uniformed staff she worked hard both at the squadron where she administered the squadron stores and at wing level where she provided support to South & East Midlands Wing radio courses.

As a qualified Netball umpire, she often helped out with Wing and Region Netball selections and helped officiate matches at Wing and Corps level. However, throughout her time she has also branched out beyond Central & East Region.

Alongside her commitments to her own unit, WO Coles regularly helped out with 241 Wanstead & Woodford Squadron drill camp for new cadets, provided key administration and logistical support to the running of the camp. The camp was such a success that it went on to become London Wing’s annual drill camp with WO Coles still continuing to offer support.

Michelle excelled in her success in netball providing vital support to both wing and region netball teams. In 2017 she officially left Mannock Air Cadets to take up a post as one of the deputy region sports officers. However, she didn’t leave Mannock completely, coming back to 378 to help as the squadron Training Officer.

“Michelle, thank you for everything you have done for the squadron and the wider cadet community over your past 30 years as both a cadet and staff” from every cadet and staff member you have supported in those 30 years.

Top announcement for two of our cadets, Corporal Evie Griffen from 2071 (Stamford) Squadron and Corporal Jessica Brown from 1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron, who have recently been appointed as the new Station Commander’s Cadet and new A4 Force Elements Commander’s Cadet, respectively, at RAF Wittering. The role will involve accompanying Group Captain Lincoln, RAF Wittering’s Station Commander and Commander of A$ Force Elements. This will give Evie and Jess a unique insight into life within the Royal Air Force.

The two cadets found out about the role from their Commanding Officers and had to complete a formal application process involving the submission of a personal statement and CV, with Evie opting to submit a hand written personal statement which helped make her standout as a candidate. The top cadets were then invited to interview, using virtual methods, with Group Captain Lincoln before being selected as the next Station Commander’s Cadets.

Cpls Griffen and Brown have both been in the Air Cadets for 4 years and have actively been involved in what the organisation has to offer, with both cadets having a keen interest in flying and a love for week-long camps at RAF bases, with Evie having been on 8 camps in four years and Jess saying one of her biggest highlights so far is attending an overseas camp at RAF Akrotiri. Both cadets have exciting plans for their futures in the Air Cadets and we will look forward to seeing what they will go on to achieve.

When the two cadets were asked what they were most excited about in their new roles both said they were “really excited about taking part in special events and high profile parades”. Evie was also excited about “being a representative for both the Air Cadets and Royal Air Force” and how this would influence her in her cadet career and outside. Jess talked about looking forward to having the unique opportunity to have “a greater understanding of what A4 Force Elements do” and the opportunity to be mentored by serving personnel in the RAF.

Around 200 cadets and staff joined MS Teams for a virtual evening with Squadron Leader (Retired) Mike Ling MBE, former Red Arrows pilot and current pilot for The Blades. This was an incredibly engaging and interesting talk, allowing cadets and staff to gain an insight into the exciting and daring lives of fast jet pilots, and particularly the levels of skill and dedication required in becoming part of the world-renowned Red Arrows.

Squadron Leader (Retired) Ling started out in the Air Cadets progressing all the way to the rank of Cadet Warrant Officer before joining the Royal Air Force at 19 years old to train to be a pilot. He was streamed into fast jet training and that’s where his path towards the Red Arrows began. He first was involved in training new pilots on the Tucano’s, before completing his fast jet training to fly operationally in the Tornado F3. This made him eligible to join the Red Arrows and after a vigorous selection process he started his first 3-year tour with the Red Arrows, which involved him becoming part of the Synchro Pair.

After a short time away, he returned as Red 10, the team’s supervisor, for a further 6 years before stepping back from the team to become a safety manager at RAF Cranwell. His final year, bringing his total number of seasons with the Red Arrows to a record breaking 10 years, was to step in for a fellow injured colleague as Red 3. After retiring from the RAF Mike completed his commercial pilot licence and joined The Blades, the UKs only commercial aerobatics team that is made up entirely of former Red Arrows pilots.

During the talk Sqn Ldr (Ret.) Ling told listeners he had an impressive 1800 flying hours and had completed 2,585 Red Arrow sorties in 29 different Red Arrow Hawk T1s. He also talked about the huge team behind the Red Arrows and the importance of the team across the world, as a true representation of Great British excellence and prowess in the sky.

Moreover, the talk explored the Hawk T1 and T2 aircrafts, the manoeuvres used by the Red Arrows and the different life saving equipment they have onboard. At the end of the evening he reserved time for cadets and staff to ask him a range of different questions.

Cadet James Mottram, 2418 (Sherwood) Squadron, who was lucky enough to get to ask his question to Sqn Ldr (Ret.) Ling said “It was truly a great evening, which I am sure every cadet who attended enjoyed just as much as I did. Thanks to Sqn Ldr Ling for giving us the talk.”

Sqn Ldr Faulkner, South & East Midlands Aviation Officer and organiser of the talk, thought it was a sublime way to spend the evening listening to Sqn Ldr Ling talk about his truly extraordinary time with the Royal Air Force and the Red Arrows and couldn’t think of a better way to inspire the next generation of air cadets.

The Central & East Region’s search for talent has got under way with four talented cadets from South and East Midlands Wing putting themselves in the spotlight.

The Region’s Warrant Office, Warrant Officer Mike Webb, gave birth to the idea and turned it into an event that will run for the next six Sundays, a different wing each week and the Grand Final.

The whole show was hosted by Mr Webb courtesy of the excellent resource of Microsoft Teams. A panel of judges was formed from Regional staff with the addition of special Guest, Wing Commander David Miller, Officer Commanding Norfolk and Suffolk Wing and selected staff and cadets from the participating wing.

Overcoming teething problems, the show got under way and four contestants gave it their best to the rather large, although unseen, audience. Two singers, a drummer and a card trick that was performed with panache.

At the end, the judges presented their scoring and after all results were calculated the winner from South & East Midlands Wing was declared. In first place, and receiving the “Golden Buzzer” from Wing Commander Miller, was Cadet Jesica Brooks-Atherton of 2229(Lougborough) Squadron who sang beautifully. Accompanying Jesica into the Final is second placed talented magician Cadet Corporal Max Faulks of 1936 (Newton) Squadron.

On summing up after the acts had been closely watched, Wing Commander Nathan Wilkes declared: “after all my years in the Region, I have seen so much talent and these performances only served to enhance my opinion of our talented cadets. Mr Webb did an excellent job of putting the whole programme together and after initial teething problems, it all went like clockwork”

Guest “Judge” Wing Commander Miller gave it the thumbs up; “My wing (Norfolk & Suffolk) will have a lot to do to match the output from the South & East Midlands. A big thanks to Warrant Officer Webb for organising the show and making it all happen.”

Next Sunday is the turn of Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire Wing to impress with their talented cadets (or staff).

Two Glenfield Air Cadets appeared on Forces Television News being interviewed about their

volunteering roles at a Leicester Community Hub.

The two cadets, Cadet Sergeant Sam Mason and Cadet Neave Williamson are helping with the making up and distribution of food and medicines to those within the Groby and Ratby area who

cannot get around during this difficult time.

Both cadets are from 2070 (Glenfield) Squadron, part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, and volunteered to give their time. Although their work is not a Squadron activity, the squadron takes great pride in the service they are providing within the community.

Forces Television, part of the British Forces Broadcasting Service, picked up on the story after it featured on various Air Cadet media platforms. A film crew from Forces TV filmed the pair in action and interviewed the two cadets.

Sam said of the experience; “For myself it felt brilliant i just can’t believe that I was on the telly on Forces TV News. I feel very privileged to have been given the opportunity to be interviewed and record what I and and Cadet Williamson have been doing to help out our community.The team that came from Forces TV were brilliant, they were super friendly. I want to say thanks for giving their time”.

Neave also spoke of the experience; “I really enjoyed the interview and I thought that the interviewer was really nice. We had some good conversations when we weren’t filming and she made me feel really confident. I loved the fact that I was seeing behind the scenes, especially since journalism is a career path I’m thinking about taking. It was really fun to be involved in something like this, and I want to say thanks to the team for being so nice and helping to tell our story in such a positive way.

The story can be viewed on the Forces Website; https://www.forces.net/video?video=45264&category=489&playlist=undefined&videoId=6151624978001

This month Cadet Warrant Officer Samuel Page, 19, and Flight Sergeant Olivia Brown, 18, from 1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron, Cadet Warrant Officer James May from 5F (Northampton) Squadron, Flight Sergeant Foster, from 126 (City of Derby) Squadron, Sergeant Joe Lathan, 18, from 1F (City of Leicester) Squadron and Sergeant Joe Wilson, 17, from 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron all completed the Qualified Aerospace Instructors Course. This is one of the top courses on offer in the RAF Air Cadets and is ran over a number of weekends from September through to April.

The course itself involved learning about seven different subjects that they developed their knowledge on each month, the subjects included: air power, aerodynamics, air traffic control (including simulation), basic flight training, aviation studies, aerospace activity planning, instructional technique and presentation skills. At the end of every weekend the students would write a reflective log about the weekend and would be set some task to do at home for the following weekend. Flight Sergeant Brown commented on basic flight training being her favourite subject as she “got to handle and teach on a variety of flight simulators while testing [her] skills and teaching techniques”.

During the course the workload can seem demanding at time and you are constantly under assessment whether that be based on your interaction during lessons, through the work you do at home or in practical assessments such as an air power presentation. Though this teaches you essential life skills such as time management and organisation. At the end of the course there is usually a graduation week where the students can celebrate all that was achieved over the many months and be presented with their blue lanyards, sadly that was not possible this year but Sergeant Wilson said he was “looking forward to instructing new aerospace topics and to improve all the cadets in my squadron and wing in my new role as a QAI.”

If you are passionate about aerospace and want to learn more about it and how to instruct a range of different aerospace topics, then consider completing the Qualified Aerospace Instructors Course. Cadet Warrant Officer Page “would wholeheartedly recommend the Course, as it gives you the experience and skills that are associated with the coveted blue lanyard. Having the ability to give back to the organisation that has provided me with so much is a responsibility that I handle with pride.”

Find out more at: http://www.qaic.org/

“This is one of the most amazing opportunities I have done in my Air Cadet career”

Last weekend Sergeant Harry Vardy, from 2195 (Long Eaton) Squadron, was the first cadet this year at 644 volunteer gliding school to successfully land his first solo circuit in the vigilant aircraft gain his Silver Gliding Wings. The journey started just 8 weeks prior to his first solo flight and not only involved practical gliding lessons but also involved a large amount of theory learning in a classroom environment.

Every Saturday at the Gliding School, Sergeant Vardy would complete between 4 and 8 launches, weather depending. During these launches he learnt basic controls of the aircraft, how to use thermals to maintain altitude and most importantly and most challengingly to him how to successfully launch and land the aircraft.

As Sergeant Vardy became more competent in controlling the aircraft, he began practicing his gliding circuits ready for his first solo flight but before he could go solo, he had to prove his ability within four launches to one of the main gliding instructors. Sergeant Vardy said “When I first went up on my own, I felt alive, it was a cadet career defining moment. You feel like you have no boundaries an

d the feeling of freedom because you are up in the sky on your own, it’s an amazing feeling. After I had landed safely, everyone came to congratulate me on my solo and my landing.”

You feel like you have no boundaries and the feeling of freedom because you are up in the sky on your own, it’s an amazing feeling.

The final stage of achieving his Silver Gliding Wings was to prove that not only had he developed aptitude in the practical side of gliding but that he had also been taking on the theoretical information he had learnt over the duration of the 8-weeks. Following successful competition of the theoretical test he was awarded his Silver Gliding Wings.

His final comments were for those cadets thinking of completing a gliding scholarship to sign up as soon as they are eligible, as it is something he would recommend to any cadet with an interest in aviation and loves to fly.

Air cadets from 1188 (Coalville) Squadron joined with Coalville Army Cadets and members of the British Legion to pay their respects to two local men who were awarded the Victoria Cross.

Coalville Air cadets joined with the local army cadets and members of the Whitwick Branch of the Royal British Legion on Saturday 26^th October in two acts of remembrance.

Everyone met at the cemetery in Whitwick to remember Thomas Elsdon Ashford. He was a private in The Royal Fusiliers, British Army during the Second Anglo-Afghan War. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for conspicuous gallantry during a sortie from Kandahar, on the 16th August, 1880. He helped rescue and carry Private Massey for a distance of over 200 yards, under the fire of the enemy. He was assisted by Lieutenant William St. Lucien Chase. Private Massey had taken shelter in a blockhouse. Several times they were compelled to rest, but they persevered in bringing him to a place of safety.

After his military service, Ashford settled in Thringstone, Leicestershire and served as a postman for many years. He was married in Thringstone Church to Betsy Ann Sisson on 29 January 1891. He later moved to the neighbouring village of Whitwick and died on 13 February 1913. He was laid to rest in Whitwick Cemetery, in the presence of thousands of mourners, though the grave lay unmarked for many years, until a monument was provided by the local British Legion. His VC is in the Royal Fusiliers Museum at the Tower of London.

The cadets and veterans then moved to the graveside of William Dolman Bees who is buried in the cemetery on London Rd in Coalville. He was a private in the 1st Battalion, The Derbyshire Regiment (later The Sherwood Foresters), during the Second Boer War. It was on 30 September 1901 at Moedwil, South Africa that he was awarded the VC. Private Bees was one of the Maxim-gun detachment, at Moedwil, six men out of nine had been hit. Hearing his wounded comrades asking for water, he went forward, under a heavy fire, to a spruit held by Boers about 500 yards ahead of the gun, and brought back a kettle full of water. In going and returning he had to pass within 100 yards of some rocks also held by Boers, and the kettle which he was carrying was hit by several bullets.

His VC is in the Ashford Collection at Duxford.

The cadets and veterans then made their way to the clock tower for the launch of this year’s poppy appeal.

Flt Lt Rebekah Harrison-Page RAFAC, the commanding officer of 1188 Coalville Squadron said “ I am really pleased the cadets were able to join with the members of the Royal British Legion again this year to remember those who have gone before. The weather was bitterly cold and it was raining but the cadets did the squadron proud”.

209 (West Bridgford) Squadron has been selected as this year’s joint winners of the Marshall Trophy Competition, alongside 88 Battle Squadron, Sussex Wing.

The Squadron was also nominated in 2018, being one of the top six finalists from across the Corps, to represent Central and Region as the most improved Squadron in the Corps over a three year period.  Since the nomination the staff and cadets at the squadron worked tirelessly to ensure all areas were fully prepared for the inspection.

Sir Arthur Marshall was born in Cambridge, England and was educated at the Perse School in Cambridge and at Tonbridge School in Kent, completing his education at Jesus College, Cambridge, in 1922, where he earned a degree in engineering.

He learned to fly in 1928, and shortly thereafter created an airstrip near his family”s Cambridge home, which by 1929 had turned into a full-fledged airfield. Six years later, Marshall and his father, David, bought the land where the present Cambridge Airport now stands and started Marshall Aerospace.

To commemorate Sir Arthur’s lifelong interest in aviation, the Marshall family donated a trophy to the Air Training Corps to be presented to “The Most Improved Squadron in the ATC over a Protracted Period of Time.”

The award would not be possible without the outstanding efforts over the past 3 years from all the cadets, staff and civilian committee on the squadron.  Congratulations to all!

Cadets were inspected by Air Cdre McCafferty and French dignitaries

On Saturday 6^th April 1936 Newton Royal Air Force Air Cadets welcomed Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty to the unit to oversee the enrolment parade of a recent intake of new recruits.

After completing six months of training 22 cadet had the honour of being enrolled  by South and East Midlands Wing Padre, Mr John Hewer accompanied by Squadron Padre, Rev. Fred Connell.

Also in attendance were dignitaries from the French Air Force, currently being hosted in the UK by Air Cdre McCafferty, whilst they are undertaking research to further develop a fledging French Air Cadet Corps.

In addition to presenting the 22 newly enrolled cadets with numerous certificates and awards Air Cdre McCafferty also formally opened the new flight simulator facility on the squadron.  The Cadets, ably supported by the Squadron Civilian Committee, have carried out fundraising activities throughout the last eighteen months to enable two flight simulators to be built to aid flying training on the unit.

Enrolment by Mr John Hewer and Rev. Fred Connell

Wing Commander Pass, Officer Commanding South and East Midlands Wing, was then invited to open the Flt Lt Joe Clark RAF VRT Heritage Classroom.  Flt Lt Clark served on 1936 Newton Squadron from 1991 to 2012, firstly as Commanding  Officer  to 1995 and then as a Civilian Instructor until his retirement in October 2012.  Prior to being at 1936 Newton Squadron he was at 1260 Newark Squadron firstly as a CI from November 1967, before becoming a Warrant Officer in 1972, then taking his Commission in 1974 and then being promoted Flight Lieutenant Clark when he was appointed as Officer Commanding of 1260 Newark Squadron from 1976 to 1991.  Flt Lt Clark received his 40 years Long Service Certificate on 5^th November 2008.

Wg Cdr Pass opens the Flt Lt Joe Clark RAF VRT Heritage Classroom

Flt Lt Clark was an exemplary gentleman who dedicated many years to training cadets.   Flt Lt Clark sadly passed away in 2017, though his widow, Audrey and daughter Rachel, were in attendance for the dedication.

Officer Commanding 1936 Newton Squadron, Fg Off Daniel Finch, said, “I could not be any prouder of cadets in attendance today, they have all approached their training with exceptional effort and commitment, which is evident in the high standards displayed by all today.”

Three screen flight simulator

Cadets show squadron visitors the flight simulator controls 

Sqn Ldr Carol Haynes contribution to the Royal Air Force Air Cadets was recognised in the Royal Air Force Honours List 2019.  As well as holding the post of Officer Commanding 5F Northampton Squadron Sqn Ldr Haynes is the First Aid Officer for Central and East Region.

Sqn Ldr Haynes works tirelessly on 5F Northampton Squadron leading and supporting cadets through the full range of activities on offer to them, as well as overseeing Cadet and Staff First Aid Training across the six wings in Central and East Region.

Sqn Ldr Haynes was presented with her Commendation from Air Officer Commanding Number 22 Group by Wg Cdr Pass at South and East Midlands Wing Field Day 2019.

Squadron Leader Jodi Hudson has received an AOC 22 training group commendation for services to the Royal Air Force Air Cadets. This is centred around his outstanding leadership of the Cadet Development Team in delivering high level quality cadet training across the South and East Midlands Wing. Congratulations Sir very well deserved

Are you looking for a new challenge in the New Year? Can you spare time to volunteer with the Air Cadets?

Cadet Squadrons in Leicester are looking to recruit adult volunteers to support the development of the cadets at the five squadrons within the Leicester city area. 

No prior military service or experience is necessary as development and training will be provided, all that's needed is a drive and a passion to lead young people with an interest in aviation or military skills. Having an interest in military and aviation will obviously help!

Recruitment is open to both uniformed and civilian instructor roles. To demonstrate the opportunities that are available an adult recruitment night is being held at 2070 Glenfield Sqn, Glenfield Primary School at 7:30pm on Tuesday 6th February. 

To book your space at the event email WSC3.semidlands@aircadets.org

OC South & East Midlands Wing, Wing Commander Pass visited the 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Squadron on Monday 11th for two reasons.

Firstly, to award FS (RAFAC) Theyers his Cadet Forces Medal for 12 continuous years of uniformed service, which he has spent at 2195 (Long Eaton) Squadron and with 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Squadron This is a fantastic sign of recognition for FS Theyers and a great way to thank him for all his hard work and commitment to the organisation!

Secondly, Wing Commander Pass conducted a Cadet Warrant Officer interview. A rank which is the pinnacle of the Air Cadet career, with only 1% of Air Cadets to reaching the rank. A huge congratulations to CWO Matthew Osbiston who passed the interview and was presented with the promotion immediately!

2071 (Stamford) Squadron Air Training Corps have held their annual awards evening where Cdt Charlie Lock, 13, of Wittering was named the best cadet of the year. The Squadron Commander, Flt Lt Phil Prudham, said “Charlie is an excellent cadet who is always one of the first to volunteer for activities and fully deserves this award”. The best NCO was awarded to Cpl Connor McGinlay who was subsequently promoted to Sergeant and the Commanding Officer’s Trophy was awarded to Cdt Marlow Dupont.

The Squadron was joined at the awards evening by Councillor Anthony Story, the Mayor of Stamford, who is a former 2071 Squadron cadet. Group Captain Tony Keeling, the Station Commander of RAF Wittering and Wing Commander Andy Pass, Officer Commanding South and East Midlands Wing ATC also presented awards which included BTECs in Aviation Studies and Personal Development and Teamwork.

The Squadron is holding an open day for its next intake of recruits on Monday 15 January 2018. Potential cadets must be 12 years or older and in at least Year 8 at school.

Other recipients of awards included:-
Most Improved Cadet: Cdt Knox P
Sports Achievement: Sgt Gatward-Clarke
Determination: Cdt Hammond
Academic Achievement: FS Guildford
Participation: Sgt Gatward-Clarke
Citizenship: Cdt Gatward-Clarke

Air cadets from 1188 (Coalville) Squadron joined with members of the British Legion to pay their respects to two local men who were awarded the Victoria Cross.

Coalville Air cadets joined with members of the Whitwick Branch of the Royal British Legion on Saturday 28^th October in two acts of remembrance.

The cadets met at the cemetery in Whitwick to remember Thomas Elsdon Ashford. He was a private in The Royal Fusiliers, British Army during the Second Anglo-Afghan War. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for conspicuous gallantry during a sortie from Kandahar, on the 16th August, 1880. He helped rescue and carry Private Massey for a distance of over 200 yards, under the fire of the enemy.He was assisted by Lieutenant William St. Lucien Chase. Private Massey had taken shelter in a blockhouse. Several times they were compelled to rest, but they persevered in bringing him to a place of safety.

After his military service, Ashford settled in Thringstone, Leicestershire and served as a postman for many years. He was married in Thringstone Church to Betsy Ann Sisson on 29 January 1891. He later moved to the neighbouring village of Whitwick and died on 13 February 1913. He was laid to rest in Whitwick Cemetery, in the presence of thousands of mourners, though the grave lay unmarked for many years, until a monument was provided by the local British Legion. His VC is in the Royal Fusiliers Museum at the Tower of London.

The air cadets and veterans then moved to the graveside of William Dolman Bees who is buried in the cemetery on London Rd in Coalville. He was a private in the 1st Battalion, The Derbyshire Regiment (later The Sherwood Foresters), during the Second Boer War. It was on 30 September 1901 at Moedwil, South Africa that he was awarded the VC. Private Bees was one of the Maxim-gun detachment, at Moedwil, six men out of nine had been hit. Hearing his wounded comrades asking for water, he went forward, under a heavy fire, to a spruit held by Boers about 500 yards ahead of the gun, and brought back a kettle full of water. In going and returning he had to pass within 100 yards of some rocks also held by Boers, and the kettle which he was carrying was hit by several bullets.

His VC is in the Sherwood Foresters Museum in Nottingham.

The sound  of the last post rang out at both Whitwick and Coalville Cemeteries to honour the fallen soldiers. The bugle was played by Cdt Evans who only started playing the bugle about a year ago.

Flt Lt Rebekah Harrison-Page RAF VR(T), the commanding officer of 1188 Coalville Squadron said “ I am really pleased the cadets were able to join with the members of the Royal British Legion again this year to remember those who have gone before. It was excellent to have the last post played live.”

Civilian Instructor Marie Eyres said”hearing Cdt Evans playing the last post added to the poignancy of the occasion.”

The cadets and veterans then went to the Clock Tower in Coalville to help launch the poppy appeal for 2017.

 

South and East Midlands Wing are the Central and East Regional Rugby 7's Champions.

Sunday 5th November saw the Inter Wing competition held at RAF Wyton, where the Senior Boys team, Captained by FSgt Luke Flynn of 2229 Loughborough Sqn and Managed by ATC FSgt James Marman were unbeaten in their run at the trophy, which has never been won by South and East Midlands Wing before.

Also held on the same day was the Inter Wing Senior Girls Netball Competition, from which the South and East Midlands Team returned with Bronze Medals.

Well Done to everyone involved, another great sporting performance!

An Air Cadet Squadron from the East Midlands has been crowned the best in the Country and has been awarded the Freedom of the District of South Derbyshire and has said farewell to their Squadron Commander after 33 years in Command, all within the space of a week.

The historic week for 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron started with a presentation evening where Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty CBE, Commandant of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets (RAFAC) presented the Morris Trophy to the 1211 Squadron, thereby officially recognising them as the best large Squadron in the UK.

The Morris Trophy Presentation

(L-R) Cadet Joshua Roberts, Flight Lieutenant Ruth Morgan, Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty CBE, Squadron Leader Alyn Thompson, Cadet Lorena Dawes

The Morris Trophy is awarded annually to the Squadron (with 46 cadets and over) that is judged to be the best in the UK, in delivering the “Cadet Experience”. Competing against 949 other Air Training Corps Squadrons from across the country, the 100 Air Cadet strong Swadlincote Unit soared through local, Regional and National inspection rounds to lift the title.

Air Commodore McCafferty said;

“Winning the Morris Trophy is a big deal and it is privilege to present it to 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron. When I visited you for your inspection, it was evident the breadth of experiences undertaken by the Cadets, the high level of Community involvement and the sense of inclusion and fun in all that you do - you set the bar exceptionally high. 1211 has had a year of incredible achievement and this award is richly deserved”.

1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron – the Best Large Squadron in the UK

Cadets Joshua Roberts and Lorena Dawes received the Morris Trophy on behalf of all of the Cadets, Staff and Support Team volunteers at 1211 Squadron. Cadet Roberts said;

 “Being an Air Cadet is brilliant, I’ve learnt so many new skills including leadership and first aid and I’ve had so many awesome experiences including flying and living on a warship. It was an honour to be selected to collect the Trophy from the Commandant”.

In addition to holding the title of Best Large Squadron in the UK and receiving the Morris Trophy, the 1211 Squadron was also awarded a VIP visit to the British Airways flight simulators at London Heathrow Airport, courtesy of The Air League. Cadet Jack Crofts was one of the 10 cadets who took part in the visit and he said;

“Flying circuits in a Boeing 747 was amazing and the simulator graphics, sounds and movements were ++so realistic”.

Flying Officer Matt Leedham, the Squadrons Aviation Officer who accompanied the 10 cadets added;

“We have our own flight simulator that we use to train our cadets in basic flying skills, but to get the chance to fly in these state-of-the-art simulators has been a real privilege. From all at 1211 we would like to thank Andy Perkins from The Air League and all the Staff at British Airways for this unforgettable experience”.

Cadet Jack Crofts fly’s the 747 Simulator

1211 Squadron VIP visit to Heathrow Airport

Having received the highest accolade that any Squadron can be bestowed within the RAFAC, two days later the Squadron was to receive the highest honour that can be bestowed by the South Derbyshire District Council.

At a Civic ceremony held within the Council chamber, 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron was granted “The Freedom of the District of South Derbyshire”. It means the Cadets have freedom of entry into the District on ‘all ceremonial occasions with colours flying and bands playing’.

The Squadron has had a presence within Swadlincote since 1941 and the title of Honorary Freeman is recognition of 76 years of voluntary work done to help future generations to prosper, as well as the tireless work carried out to support the Council, local communities and charities.

Following what can only be described as the two most significant achievements in the Squadron’s 76 year history, the end of the week also saw the end of a significant era. Squadron Leader (Sqn Ldr) Alyn Thompson who has been the Officer Commanding (OC) 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron for the past 33 years, relinquished his Command of the unit, to take on a new Staff post as Sector 2 Commander within South & East Midlands Wing. In his new role, Alyn will oversee the running of 7 Squadrons in Derbyshire and Leicestershire.

Alyn Thompson first joined 1211 (Swadlincote) Sqn as an Air Cadet in 1970 and became the squadron’s first ever Cadet Warrant Officer in 1975. Alyn was appointed a commission in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve in 1980 and took command of 1211 back in September 1984, aged 27, becoming the youngest Sqn Commander in the ATC at that time.

Through the Swadlincote Squadron’s 76 year existence it has only had seven commanding officers (COs). Sqn Ldr Thompson has been the longest serving of them all, surpassing Flt Lt C.R. Poynton, who served for 23 years as Sqn Commander from 1947 to 1970. With 33 years in post, Alyn was one of the longest serving Commanding Officers in the history of the Air Training Corps.

At a formal ‘Dining Out’ event held at the Derby Conference Centre, Alyn was joined by friends, colleagues and cadets, past and present to celebrate his time as ‘OC1211’ and to wish him the very best in his new adventure on the Wing Staff team.

Every year, there is a special award for the SNCO, WO or CI that goes “above and beyond” and this year, Warrant Officer Alan Wiggs of 378 (Mannock) Squadron was the deserving recipient. 

 

WO Dominic Chisholm, Wing Warrant Officer of South and East Midlands Wing, presented the award to WO Wiggs on Monday (06/11/17) at his unit in front of all the cadets and staff. However, this award is usually present at the SNCO, WO and CI’s annual Dinning in Night held at RAF Cranwell. The Wing Warrant Officer had to award it to Alan at the unit as he sadly missed the dinner this year and this makes part of the reason why he has received the award (not out of sympathy we assure you!). 

 

Last year, Alan had a very hard year. He suffered from an incredibly rare form of stroke and he went through a incredibly hard time, with losing his speech and ability to eat things were very hard for him. However, somehow he bounced back, in less than 2 months he was at the Wing Spring camp at DTE Swynnerton for a long weekend back to his usual self giving people as much grief as possible! So even when this man is down and nearly out, he continued to support and organise. He has helped run and organise the SNCO, WO and CI's dinning in night now for 10 years and couldn’t accept the award at this year’s dinner as he was rushed in to hospital for an emergency hernia operation! However, even after going under the knife he was still helping get everything in place for the dinner this year and making sure that things went as smoothly as possible.

He was able to join the dinner during the speeches via FaceTime on his iPhone so he could (virtually) be presented the award by the Wing Warrant Officer. 

 

Wing WO Dominic Chisholm said “Alan is a remarkable man, even when he has gone through such a testing time as he did last year, he continues to deliver, not just at the unit level, but at the Wing level and being an integral part of our annual celebrations. He has been a part of the Wing for as long as I can remember and he has been a WO for longer than I have been a SNCO. It was the perfect time to show Alan how much he means not just to the SNCO, WO and CI cadre but to the Wing as a whole, its just a shame he wasn’t able to join us on the evening of the 10th Annual Dinning in Night. However, we dialled him in for the speech so he was a virtual part of the night and it was an absolute pleasure and honour to present WO Wiggs with the award at his home unit and in front of one of his son’s who have recently started their Air Cadet career at 378 Mannock Squadron. Well done Wiggsy, you thoroughly deserve the award this year!” 

A youth organisation named the finest in the country has been granted the Freedom of South Derbyshire.

The 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron Air Training Corps (ATC) received the highest honour the District Council can bestow on Thursday.

It means the cadets have freedom of entry into the District on ‘all ceremonial occasions with colours flying and bands playing’.

The title of Honorary Freeman is recognition of the work done to help future generations to prosper, as well as the tireless work carried out in local communities.

It comes hot on the heels of the squadron, which trains at Eureka Park, winning the coveted Morris Cup and being named the best squadron in the country by the Royal Air Force

 

Cllr Michael Stanton, Chairman of South Derbyshire District Council, presented a ceremonial scroll to the ATC during an Extraordinary Council meeting.

He said:

“The Air Training Corps have given outstanding service to the District of South Derbyshire for more than 76 years.

“They have brought prestige to the area by winning numerous honours, the latest of which being the Morris Cup, a prestigious national award, and by instilling leadership, teamwork and respect in so many young people.

“The squadron has worked closely with the Council and has forged many strong

community links. They deserve an unparalleled reputation in South Derbyshire and beyond.”

The ATC, established in April 1941, promote and encourage a practical interest in aviation and the Royal Air Force (RAF).

It provides training which will be useful in both the services and civilian life and develops the qualities of leadership and good citizenship.

As well as the Freedom of South Derbyshire, the squadron was awarded the Council’s first Order of Merit in 2013 for its positive influence across the District.

Flt Lt Ruth Morgan, Squadron Commander, said:

“It is a very proud moment to be granted the freedom of South Derbyshire.

“It is fitting recognition of the work we do in the heart of the local community and developing young people, something we pride ourselves on.

“We will continue to keep supporting Swadlincote and South Derbyshire and fully intend to make the most of the opportunity to parade with colours flying and bands playing.”

The Freedom of South Derbyshire has only been awarded twice before, to former District Councillor Bill Dunn and the Mercian Regiment.

A short video of the evening can be found on the @SDDC Twitter handle and the South Derbyshire District Council Facebook page.

On Sunday 29^th October 2017, 7 Squadrons from South & East Midlands Wing ‘Sector 2’ held a Training Day in Derby, to share knowledge and skills for the benefit of the Cadets.

115 Air Cadets and Staff from Melton Mowbray (1279), Loughborough (2229), Long Eaton (2195), Ilkeston (348), Swadlincote (1211) and Coalville (1188) travelled to the new 126 (City of Derby) Squadron Headquarters to take part in the Training Day. The Cadets took part in activities including Drill, Radio, Air Recce, Aeromodelling, Leadership, Music and BTEC (in Teamwork and Personal Development). First Aid Training was also provided for Squadron Staff.

Training was delivered by ‘expert’ staff from across the 7 Squadrons, supported by South & East Midlands Wing Staff and Sqn Ldr Steve Mills from Central & East Region HQ and Wing Commander Gil Singleton from HQAC.

The Sector 2 Training Day was also visited by the Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire, Mr Tucker, Wing Commander Andy Pass (OC South & East Midlands Wing) and representatives from EMRFCA and RAFA who were all able to witness the ‘Cadets at work’.

Squadron Leader Alyn Thompson, Wing Sector 2 Commander, who masterminded the Training Day, said “It was fantastic bringing 7 very different squadrons together and seeing them work in a none competitive environment. The quality of training delivered has been excellent and the Cadets have all achieved something, whether that is gaining a Blue badge in Leadership, learning how to build an aero-model in 4 hours, or developing Rifle Drill Skills. The Staff team have been brilliant and I would like to thank them all for contributing to the success of the Day”.

The Nottingham High School played host to Nottingham’s third Inter Cadet Service Competition on Saturday 16th September.

Nottingham units of the Sea Cadet Corps, Army Cadet Force, Royal Air Force Air Cadets and members of the High School’s Combined Cadet Force competed to become Nottingham’s best Cadet Service in the Cadet 17 Competition.

The cadets, aged 15 to 18 years of age, completed in eight activities, Air Rifle Target Shooting, A “Gun Run”, a First Aid exercise, Foot Drill,a vehicle pull, climbing wall, and “Battle PT”.

All activities involve teamwork, leadership, physical ability and discipline.  All these elements were assessed and marked to find which of Nottingham’s Cadet Forces are this year’s Champions.

The competition was fierce and the inter Corps rivalry was evident as the cadets battled hard in all the elements of the competition.

“This was a brilliant competition, my favourites bits were the Battle PT and the Gun Run but I enjoyed the whole experience” said Cadet Sergeant Madison Marinez from D Squadron, Army Cadet Force.  Madison has been in the ACF for three years and “loves it”.

The competition was the brainchild of Warrant Officer Danny Haywood of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets and his drive and enthusiasm has ensured the event has continued into it’s third year.   Backed by a team of appropriately qualified adult volunteers from all the involved organisations, the safety of the competing cadets was assured.

During the afternoon, the cadets were visited by senior representatives of the various cadet forces including the head of the RAF Air cadets, Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty CBE.  The Nottingham High school and the Reserve Forces and Cadets association were also represented.

Cadet Sergeant Kiernen Walker, of the RAF Air Cadets declared the event; “Very good, I thought the First Aid Exercise was fantastic and made even better by being professionally judged by a highly qualified ambulance technician”  Kiernen, at the age of 18 years, was one of the older competitors and has been a cadet at West Bridgeford fo the last 4 years.

From the Sea Cadet Corps Team, sixteen year old Oliver Westcott- Walker thought the Competition  “Eventful and very good”  and from the Naval Section of the High School’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF), Will Hustwayte (16);  “It was great working with other cadets, in the CCF we don’t have much opportunity to interact with other cadet units.  The Climbing Wall was my favourite but the whole day has been really good”.

Air Commodore McCafferty was on hand to award the trophy for the best of Nottingham’s Cadet Forces.  The Air Commodore expressed her delight at seeing all the cadets taking part and informed them that this was the first such event the she had witnessed, she was greatly impressed.

For the third year running, the Air Cadets took the overall trophy and were crowned best cadets in Nottingham.

Warrant Officer Danny Haywood thanked all who took part, all the staff that helped, the Nottingham High School for the use of the excellent facilities, the East Midlands Ambulance Service for the use of the specialist vehicle and to Mark Bushell for judging the First Aid Competition and to RAF Wittering for providing a Physical Training Instructor to provide the expertise for the “Battle PT”. 

Sponsorship for the event was provided by Green Frog Promotion to whom the cadets are most grateful.  LPM Prestige Sales generously loaned the Landrover for the Landrover Pull. 

It was a busy weekend for cadets from 1359 (Beeston) Squadron Air Training Corps as they carried out public duties and participated in joint exercises on 16^th and 17^th September at locations across the City of Nottingham.

Saturday saw cadets proudly participating in the Royal Air Force Association Wings Appeal by helping to raising money in Beeston Town Centre. The appeal is a centre piece of the Battle of Britain commemorations and helps those former service personnel from recent service and decades past and their families with welfare needs and support should it be required. The appeal is always an important part of the Beeston cadets work and is always well supported.

At the same time Cdt Sergeant Kezzia Cannon represented the squadron at Nottingham High School in the Nottinghamshire Cadet 17 competition, which sees cadets from all three military cadet forces compete in various disciplines against one another. The Air Training Corps won the competition against competitors from the Army Cadet Force, Combined Cadet Force, Sea Cadet Corps and Marine Cadets.

To complete the busy round up of duties the squadron also provided a large contingent of cadets to the Nottingham Battle of Britain Parade held in central Nottingham on Sunday. This important parade, remembering the struggle for aerial supremacy above the skies over Southern England in 1940 saw 120 cadets hi-light the light blue foot print of the Royal Air Force and RAFAC to a large crowd and loud applause. 1359 Sqn also provided the largest staff contingent for the parade, seeing Officer Commanding, Flt Lt Phil Bannister as Number 1 Flight Commander, Fg Off Gareth Fowler as Number 4 Flight Commander, WO Rob Phillips as Parade Warrant Officer and Flight Sergeant Kyle Crawford as drill instructor NCO IC Number 4 Flight. 

Sunday 17 September 2017 saw 120 cadets from the Nottingham Squadrons of the Air Training Corps attend St Mary’s Church on High Pavement Nottingham as they have annually over the past 77 years in order to pay respect to those airmen of the RAF who fought in the 1940 Battle of Britain.

The ancient church has seen many military acts of remembrance over the centuries and as the generation of 1940 approach their twilight this act of commemoration and remembrance for the famous Few of RAF Fighter Command becomes even more essential in the nations memory.

Along with cadets from other squadrons, 14 cadets from 1359 (Beeston) Sqn were formed into 4 flights and braced themselves for the commands which were to begin their proud march through the City. In the spirit which Winston Churchill fostered in his 1940 speech in which he said “Let us therefore brace ourselves to our duty”, the parade proceeded towards the Old Market Square led by the drums of the Nottinghamshire Army Cadet Force and the massed banners of the Air Training Corps and RAF Association.

Sir John Peace, Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of the County of Nottinghamshire took the salute and shortly after along with the Sheriff and Lord Mayor of Nottingham carried out an inspection.
Parade Warrant Officer WO (ATC) Rob Phillips said, “Our cadets carried out an important act of remembrance today, not only for the pilots of RAF Fighter Command, but also their equally important colleagues in RAF Bomber Command who together held off the real spectre of German invasion in 1940. The ATC followed in the finest traditions of the parent service and truly represented the memory of RAF personnel who were stationed in the many RAF airfields surrounding Nottingham. I am very proud of their hard work and commitment.”

WO (ATC) Rob Phillips
1359 (BEESTON) Sqn ATC

Recently, cadets from 2418 (Sherwood) Squadron offered their service, to the Wigman Road Army Reserve Centre for their annual sports presentation dinner. The cadets through the evening waited on the guests, serving the 3 courses they were having that evening.

The cadets enjoyed helping out and were more than happy to be there for such an occasion. CPL Stocks commented “It was a lovely evening and we were all happy to help. We could see the appreciation from the guests and this meant a lot. It was a great evening helping out”.

CI J Foster
2418 Media Team

 

17th and 18th June saw 1359 (Beeston) Squadron Air Training Corps host a Youth First Aid course in conjunction with 209 (west Bridgford) Squadron. Cadets spent 2 days including a 3-part assessment, to learn a multitude of essential first aid skills such as CPR, dealing with a choking casualty, broken bones and asthma attacks. 10 cadets from 1359 Sqn attended and completed the course successfully which now qualifies them as a first aider for 3 years. The award is a St John Ambulance nationally recognised qualification. It also entitles them to compete in our annual competition against other squadrons within the South and East Midlands Wing later this year.

Cadet Sergeant Kezia Cannon, who took the role of assessor on the course, stated that “there was a strong calibre of cadets on this course and I was pleased to see so many cadets engaging with the training and sharing my enthusiasm for an activity I love”.

Corporal Asha Harrison said that he was surprised how much he had already learned and now feels confident that he could help out in the community should the need now arise.

Sergeant (ATC) Jessie Clark

The sweltering weekend of the 17th and 18th June saw 1359(Beeston) Squadron’s Cadet Warrant Officer Jade Cox on duty at Caunton Manor in Nottinghamshire in her role as the Lord Lieutenants Cadet.
CWO Cox was appointed to the prestigious position of Lord Lieutenants Cadet in September 2016 and is charged with representing the Royal Air Force Cadets in the County of Nottinghamshire as the Lord Lieutenants personal cadet. This involves accompanying the Lord Lieutenant, Sir John Peace at events he attends on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen.

With a history that can be traced back to the 1500s, the Lord Lieutenant is the personal representative of Her Majesty in each county of the United Kingdom. Responsible for maintaining the link between people and Monarch, other responsibilities placed upon the Lord Lieutenant include managing arrangements for royal visits and presenting medals and awards on behalf of The Queen.

Saturday was a celebration and thanks for those from the voluntary sector and everything they do in their spare time for others. Accompanying CWO Cox was OC 1359, Flight Lieutenant Phil Bannister RAF Volunteer Reserve (Training) who spends much time travelling between the UK and Germany in his civilian occupation on top of his voluntary role with the Cadet Forces. The following day continued with a Garden Party for the birthday of Her Majesty, with many members of the public invited to Sir John’s residence to join the celebration.

Flight Lieutenant Bannister said “It was a lovely day with perfect weather for the occasion! 1359 would like to pass on their thanks to voluntary sector workers, and everything they do!”

WO (ATC) Rob Phillips
MCO 1359 Sqn

 

 

Staff from throughout the South and East Midlands Wing have attended the Prospective Uniform Course which was held at RAF Wittering over the weekend 10 – 11 June as part of their ongoing career development.

22 Civilian Instructors took part in the Staff Development Team course which serves as an introduction to the ATC or to assist in the decision making process for candidates who are at the point of choosing a career as a Commissioned Officer or Senior Non Commissioned Officer within the Cadet Forces.

The weekend consists of an introduction into the expectations of uniform Service and Air Training Corps staff policies and roles. An essential in depth aspect of training relates to Health and Safety and the management of cadet welfare with in depth group debate forming an important aspect of the course, especially in relation to social media and scenarios that staff are likely to encounter during their service.

Instruction is also received in the structure of both the Air Training Corps and the Royal Air Force with current RAF and NATO operational commitments along with current events discussed at length.

Running alongside the PU Course, other Civilian Instructors from throughout the South and East Midlands who have recently joined the ATC took part in their initial 2 day staff training as part of the Civilian Instructors Induction Course which is a compulsory requirement for all new staff.

WO Phillips is a long serving member of the Staff Development Team and delivered part of the weekend training. He said “The Prospective Uniform Course is a comprehensive two day course that is aimed at developing our volunteer staff and providing them with the knowledge and confidence to progress into a uniformed role within the organisation”.

The course is staffed by the SDT and covers a wide reaching training portfolio designed to provide guidance to Wing staff. The June PU CI Course is the inaugural course run by the new LDC senior officer, Squadron Leader Lynda Waplington – Richards who has recently taken over command from Sqn Ldr Mark Richards who has stood down from the post after a successful 2 years in command.

Sqn Ldr Waplington – Richards said “It is exciting times ahead for the courses as I intend to revamp and shape the content for increased staff development making them more streamlined and diverse and fit for purpose.”

WO R PHILLIPS
Staff Development Team
Media and Communications Officer

• Two new Cadet Warrant Officers at Corby Air Cadets

  07 Nov 2024

  

  Congratulations to our two newest Cadet Warrant Officers from 422 (Corby) Squadron, following successful interview with Wing Commander Wilson. The first cadet promoted is Cadet Warrant Officer King, who on the Squadron looks after the Blue and Bronze Progressive Training syllabus. She commented “RAFAC has been a large part of my life for the past 5 years and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities it has given me and for the individuals that have supported me throughout this journey. “My time within the organisation has allowed me to gain skills in communication and leadership, qualities that have helped within the corps and outside, with some of the highlights of my career being RAF Waddington summer camp and the DTC(I) course. “I feel immensely privileged to be appointed the role of CWO, and I look forward to assisting cadets in my own unit and in the wider wing with their… Read More »

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• New Officer Commanding for 504 (West Nottingham) Squadron

  29 Nov 2023

  We are pleased to announce that Flying Officer Jake Foster has, this month, been appointed as Officer Commanding 504 (West Nottingham) Squadron. We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate him on his new position and wish him the best of luck. Jake has been an adult volunteer for 6 years, having previously reaching the rank of Cadet Warrant Officer during his Air Cadet career. During his time as an adult volunteer, he has supported both 2418 (Sherwood) and 138 (1st Nottingham) Squadrons, where he has taken up a range of roles including Training Officer and Adjutant. These will put him in a good position for taking command of his new Squadron. Beyond the Squadron, Jake is a regular at Wing activities such as Swynnerton Camp where he leads the Gun Run activity. He is also the Course Director of the Wing Initial NCO Course, which will be incredibly… Read More »

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• New Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet in Northamptonshire

  20 Nov 2022

  

  His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for Northamptonshire, James Saunders Watson, has recently appointed his new Cadets to take on the role of ‘Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet (LLC)’ at an investiture ceremony at Northampton County Hall.  Representing the RAF Air Cadets for this coming year is Cadet Flight Sergeant (FS) Webb from 1101 (Kettering and District) Squadron. Taking over the role from the outgoing LLC, Cadet Warrant Officer (CWO) Thomas from 858 (Rushden) Squadron, FS Webb said “This is an amazing opportunity for me to represent not only 1101 Squadron, but the RAF Air Cadets in Northamptonshire, and I feel immensely proud to be offered this role for the next twelve months.  I look forward to supporting the Lord Lieutenant alongside my fellow cadets from the other services, and I hope to serve to the best of my ability and be able to fill the shoes of the outgoing RAFAC LLC, CWO Thomas”.  

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• First weekend course since returning to face to face

  26 Oct 2021

  

  As part of our adult volunteer development we offer training for those wishing to transition from a civilian instructor into a uniformed voluntary position in the form of a Pre-Uniform course. This course provides the knowledge as well as training to progress through either the Senior NCO or Commissioned Officer pathway. This year saw the release of the all new Pre-Uniform course combining two virtual sessions, an on squadron individual learning programme and an in-person weekend course at RAF Wittering. Over the weekend, 10 adult volunteers, wishing to make the move into uniform attended the final part of the Pre-Uniform course at RAF Wittering. On the course the students consolidated what they learnt from the previous virtual sessions and the development undertaken on squadrons using the Development Matrix. As well as completing further training in leadership and policy, and preparing the students for the Interview and OASC processes. Squadron Leader… Read More »

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• A Buzz in Kettering as the Royal Navy Visit Local Air Cadet Squadron

  20 Jul 2021

  

  On the afternoon of Wednesday 14th July, Kettering was met by an unfamiliar sight and sound for the town – the Royal Navy. 31 RAF Air Cadets from 1101 (Kettering), 1084 (Market Harborough), 378 (Mannock) and 422 (Corby) Squadrons were invited, along with their staff, to this visit from the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm’s 815 NAS to Kettering. The Royal Navy and the Air Cadets’ parent unit, the Royal Air Force, believe fully in engaging with the communities in which they serve, to give insight to the next generation of aspiring service personnel about life in the military. Whilst visits like this are not the norm, wherever they can, the military are always willing to give back – as often many of the personnel are ex-cadets themselves. With the 12 months previous to the return to face to face activities in April consisting of entirely remotely delivered training, and… Read More »

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• Father and Daughter’s Lifesaving Skills put into Action

  19 Jul 2021

  

  Earlier this week our very own Sergeant Chouhan and Cadet Sergeant Sheena Chouhan put their lifesaving skills, learnt in the Air Cadets, into action whilst out in the community. During a normal day out in Belgrave, Leicester Sgt Chouhan, Cadet Sgt Chouhan and nephew/cousin Kieran were witness to an incident, resulting in a woman becoming unconscious and requiring help. All rushed into action following the incident with Sgt Chouhan assessing the woman’s injuries and Cadet Sgt Chouhan managing the scene and getting in touch with the emergency services. Following Sgt Chouhan putting the woman into the recovery position to keep her air ways open, both Sgt Chouhan and Cadet Sgt Chouhan remained with her until the emergency services arrived to take over. Reflection on the incident Cadet Sgt Chouhan said “Although the situation was nerve-racking, our priority was her safety. I am fortunate for the training I’ve received from Sgt… Read More »

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• New Officer Commanding South & East Midlands

  11 Jul 2021

  

  We are pleased to share the news that Squadron Leader Wilson has been appointed as the new Officer Commanding South & East Midlands Wing, with that being promoted to Wing Commander. Many cadets will know Wg Cdr Wilson from his years of experience running the Wing Spring camps at Swynnerton and Wing Adventure Training Camps at Fairbourne, Windermere and Llanbedr. Both of these falling under his role as Wing Adventure Training and Technical Officer, which he has held since 2008. Prior to his Wing Staff Officer role, Wg Cdr Wilson was Officer Commanding of 1359 (Beeston) Squadron, the squadron he started his cadet journey at back in 1989, and then 504 (West Nottingham) Squadron. Following his new appointment Wg Cdr Wilson said “I am privileged and honoured to have been given the opportunity to take this post as Officer Commanding South & East Midlands Wing. I am very much looking… Read More »

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• End of an Era

  29 Jun 2021

  

  Today marks the end of an era for the Wing as we say goodbye to Wing Command Andy Pass and he officially takes up his new post as the Senior Volunteer Advisor, the first volunteer Group Captain role. He moves on from a five year tenure as Officer Commanding South & East Midlands Wing. During his time in command he has maintained the Wing’s position as one of the consistently top performing wings in the RAFAC and driven a number of successful organisational shifts within the Wing. The changes have moved the Wing into a more supportive structure for the individual units and the volunteers that run them, with a particular passion for sustaining their mental health and providing them recognition for their successes. His final few weeks in command have allowed him to show this passion by visiting a number of squadrons in order to present the many commendations… Read More »

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• Melton Air Cadets receives The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service

  09 Jun 2021

  

  A group of volunteers based in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, have been honoured with The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK. 1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron is one of over 1,000 squadrons of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets (RAFAC) that offer a wide range of activities, qualifications and opportunities to young people across the country. Squadrons are managed by teams of uniformed and non-uniformed adult volunteers who give their time to help plan, organise and run the array of incredible opportunities that are on offer to the young people. The volunteers of 1279 (Melton Mowbray) take on a variety of roles from instructors to squadron treasurer in order to facilitate the best possible chances to see the young people develop and also to find opportunity to forge links with their local community. Before lockdown set in, the squadron volunteers had clocked… Read More »

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• Air Officer Commanding becomes Taskmaster for the night

  28 Feb 2021

  

  For the cadets of 1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron, Royal Air Force Air Cadets, their recent virtual parade night was no ordinary evening. Whilst it promised to be a fun and challenging night for the cadets, they were joined by a special guest to make the evening that much more memorable. After being put forward by their Wing Commander back in February to host a special guest during a virtual session, the squadron were informed in early March that they had been selected to host Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Richard Maddison OBE MA RAF. AVM Maddison is the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) 22 Group RAF, which is the part of the RAF that the Air Cadets comes under. The AOC joined the squadron alongside Wing Commander Andy Pass RAFAC, Officer Commanding South and East Midlands Wing, to get to understand what activities are taking place around the organisation and to get… Read More »

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• Melton Air Cadets continues to fly high

  21 Oct 2020

  

  Cadet Warrant Officer (CWO) Sam Page, 19, has recently received the accolade of being awarded his Gold Glider Wings, the first set to be issued to any cadet at 1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron. Sam has previously seen a wealth of aviation success from being awarded a Flying Scholarship through the Royal Air Forces Association and then completing a Silver Wings Gliding Scholarship over the past few years. On completion of his Silver Wings training, the CWO was invited to remain with the team at 644 Volunteer Gliding School (VGS) as a Flight Staff Cadet (FSC) and to begin his Gold Wings Glider Training. The Gold Wings syllabus continues the ground school that the CWO learnt during his Silver Wings Training, a written exam and gliding sorties under instruction. The intense course culminates in five assessed solo sorties. Undertaking his training for almost a year, due to training being on hold… Read More »

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• MBE for Squadron Leader Alyn Thompson after 40 years of dedication

  17 Oct 2020

  

  South & East Midlands Wing adult volunteer, Squadron Leader Alyn Thompson RAFAC, has received an MBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list. Squadron Leader Thompson commissioned into the RAF Volunteer Reserve (Training) Branch 40 years ag o, four years later becoming the 7th Officer Commanding of 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron. Following Squadron Leader Thompson having been at the helm for 35 years, Swadlincote is a jewel amongst the Corps’ 950 units, having attracted multiple awards for excellence. Swadlincote won the Morris Trophy for best large unit in the Corps in 2009 and then replicated this feat in 2017, an unprecedented achievement. During his time in charge of 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron he has been heavily involved in supporting a variety of local, national and international projects. This notably includes setting up a partnership with an African orphanage in Burundi and supporting Aqua Boxes, water purification systems for Third World Countries. As part… Read More »

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• New Commanding Officer appointed at Rutland Air Cadet Squadron

  05 Oct 2020

  

  After 16 years, Flight Lieutenant Jackie Lawrence RAFAC has handed over command of Rutland Air Cadet Squadron to Warrant Officer Ian Coates, the newly appointed Commanding Officer. In April this year, Jackie was promoted to Sector Commander 3 of the South & East Midlands Wing and has since been managing the two roles, she said ‘It has been a rewarding, but challenging time as I have taken on wider responsibility at a time when Covid-19 has had a significant operational impact. I feel confident that Rutland Sqn is in good hands and look forward to working closely with WO Coates, who was previously a staff member on the Sqn.’ Ian Coates said ‘Flt Lt Lawrence has done a remarkable job at Rutland Sqn and I have learned a lot from her. I am excited to take on my new role and further contribute to the success of the squadron.’ Jackie… Read More »

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• Commandant’s Commendation for 504 (West Nottingham) Squadron Commanding Officer

  23 Sep 2020

  

  A top commendation for Flight Lieutenant Sally Clarke, Commanding Officer of 504 (West Nottingham) Squadron. Last Sunday Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Nottingham presented Flt Lt Clarke with an RAF Air Cadet Commandant’s Commendation for Meritorious Service. Sally was presented the award for her support to both the Adult and Cadet Development Teams which she has been involved in on top of her squadron duties since 2013 and 2014, respectively. As part of these teams she is the Course Director of the Cadet Initial NCO Course and has been Directing Staff on the Civilian Instructor Course. On receiving the commendation, Sally said “I am delighted to receive the award and it was complete surprise, not what I expected at all.”

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• Flight Lieutenant Brock Shortlisted for Women in Defence Award

  14 Sep 2020

  

  In a year where we have faced unprecedented challenges it gives us great joy to share the tremendous success of Flt Lt Jade Brock RAFAC. Last month it was announced that she had been shortlisted for a Women in Defence Award in the Outstanding Contribution category. Jade is one of nine to be shortlisted in this category for women across the whole defence industry who have exceeded the expectations of their role, with Jade being the only women shortlisted from the cadet forces. Jade has been nominated and recently shortlisted for this award for her work as Officer Commanding of 209 (West Bridgford) Squadron. In 2016, Jade took over the unit after the Squadron was consistently towards the bottom of the Wing’s rankings, with cadets an d staff disinterested. Since then she has driven the unit forward with her energy, enthusiasm and tireless work, transforming the squadron into a class-leading… Read More »

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• Long Eaton Air Cadet Adult Volunteer delivers First Aid to Injured Biker

  10 Sep 2020

  

  Whilst Cadets were enjoying a Virtual Parade Night of RAF related quiz questions Flt Lt Craig Mills RAFAC was notably absent as he was putting his first aid skills to the test after witnessing and being the first on scene to a serious motorbike accident. The biker lost control on a sharp bend and collided with the steel guard rail.  He used the first aid skills that he had learnt to go to the aid of the injured biker. Keeping a cool head, he applied his first aid knowledge and stayed with the casualty keeping him talking until paramedics arrived around 45 minutes later. Flt Lt Mills explained everything he had done to the paramedics and was able to pass on the casualty’s details. “It was quite surreal, but I was just glad that the training I have done kicked in and that I was able to help him,” said… Read More »

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• 378 (Mannock) Squadron’s Warrant Officer Coles Celebrates 30 years in the Air Cadets

  20 Jul 2020

  

  This year Warrant Officer (WO) Michelle Coles celebrates 30 years in Royal Air Force Air Cadets and has been awarded a Certificate of Meritorious Service for her dedication over these many years. WO Coles joined 378 (Mannock) Squadron as a cadet on the 17 July 1990. Over the following five years she worked hard as a cadet eventually becoming a Cadet Warrant Officer in February 1995 and leaving cadets when she turned 20 in 1997. She quickly re-joined as a Civilian Instructor at the squadron, helping to deliver the first-class cadet training to new cadets. In 2004 she successfully passed her board to become appointed as a uniformed adult Sergeant. During her time as uniformed staff she worked hard both at the squadron where she administered the squadron stores and at wing level where she provided support to South & East Midlands Wing radio courses. As a qualified Netball umpire,… Read More »

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• Two new Station Commander’s Cadets at RAF Wittering

  24 May 2020

  

  Top announcement for two of our cadets, Corporal Evie Griffen from 2071 (Stamford) Squadron and Corporal Jessica Brown from 1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron, who have recently been appointed as the new Station Commander’s Cadet and new A4 Force Elements Commander’s Cadet, respectively, at RAF Wittering. The role will involve accompanying Group Captain Lincoln, RAF Wittering’s Station Commander and Commander of A$ Force Elements. This will give Evie and Jess a unique insight into life within the Royal Air Force. The two cadets found out about the role from their Commanding Officers and had to complete a formal application process involving the submission of a personal statement and CV, with Evie opting to submit a hand written personal statement which helped make her standout as a candidate. The top cadets were then invited to interview, using virtual methods, with Group Captain Lincoln before being selected as the next Station Commander’s Cadets.… Read More »

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• Virtual Evening with former Red Arrows Pilot, Squadron Leader (Retired) Mike Ling MBE

  22 May 2020

  

  Around 200 cadets and staff joined MS Teams for a virtual evening with Squadron Leader (Retired) Mike Ling MBE, former Red Arrows pilot and current pilot for The Blades. This was an incredibly engaging and interesting talk, allowing cadets and staff to gain an insight into the exciting and daring lives of fast jet pilots, and particularly the levels of skill and dedication required in becoming part of the world-renowned Red Arrows. Squadron Leader (Retired) Ling started out in the Air Cadets progressing all the way to the rank of Cadet Warrant Officer before joining the Royal Air Force at 19 years old to train to be a pilot. He was streamed into fast jet training and that’s where his path towards the Red Arrows began. He first was involved in training new pilots on the Tucano’s, before completing his fast jet training to fly operationally in the Tornado F3.… Read More »

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• South & East Midlands Wing at Central & East’s Got Talent

  04 May 2020

  

  The Central & East Region’s search for talent has got under way with four talented cadets from South and East Midlands Wing putting themselves in the spotlight. The Region’s Warrant Office, Warrant Officer Mike Webb, gave birth to the idea and turned it into an event that will run for the next six Sundays, a different wing each week and the Grand Final. The whole show was hosted by Mr Webb courtesy of the excellent resource of Microsoft Teams. A panel of judges was formed from Regional staff with the addition of special Guest, Wing Commander David Miller, Officer Commanding Norfolk and Suffolk Wing and selected staff and cadets from the participating wing. Overcoming teething problems, the show got under way and four contestants gave it their best to the rather large, although unseen, audience. Two singers, a drummer and a card trick that was performed with panache. At the… Read More »

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• Volunteering Glenfield Air Cadets on Forces TV

  27 Apr 2020

  

  Two Glenfield Air Cadets appeared on Forces Television News being interviewed about their volunteering roles at a Leicester Community Hub. The two cadets, Cadet Sergeant Sam Mason and Cadet Neave Williamson are helping with the making up and distribution of food and medicines to those within the Groby and Ratby area who cannot get around during this difficult time. Both cadets are from 2070 (Glenfield) Squadron, part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, and volunteered to give their time. Although their work is not a Squadron activity, the squadron takes great pride in the service they are providing within the community. Forces Television, part of the British Forces Broadcasting Service, picked up on the story after it featured on various Air Cadet media platforms. A film crew from Forces TV filmed the pair in action and interviewed the two cadets. Sam said of the experience; “For myself it felt… Read More »

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• Six Qualified Aerospace Instructors for South & East Midlands Wing

  30 Mar 2020

  

  This month Cadet Warrant Officer Samuel Page, 19, and Flight Sergeant Olivia Brown, 18, from 1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron, Cadet Warrant Officer James May from 5F (Northampton) Squadron, Flight Sergeant Foster, from 126 (City of Derby) Squadron, Sergeant Joe Lathan, 18, from 1F (City of Leicester) Squadron and Sergeant Joe Wilson, 17, from 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron all completed the Qualified Aerospace Instructors Course. This is one of the top courses on offer in the RAF Air Cadets and is ran over a number of weekends from September through to April. The course itself involved learning about seven different subjects that they developed their knowledge on each month, the subjects included: air power, aerodynamics, air traffic control (including simulation), basic flight training, aviation studies, aerospace activity planning, instructional technique and presentation skills. At the end of every weekend the students would write a reflective log about the weekend and would be… Read More »

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• First Solo Gliding of 2020 for South & East Midlands Wing

  20 Jan 2020

  

  “This is one of the most amazing opportunities I have done in my Air Cadet career” Last weekend Sergeant Harry Vardy, from 2195 (Long Eaton) Squadron, was the first cadet this year at 644 volunteer gliding school to successfully land his first solo circuit in the vigilant aircraft gain his Silver Gliding Wings. The journey started just 8 weeks prior to his first solo flight and not only involved practical gliding lessons but also involved a large amount of theory learning in a classroom environment. Every Saturday at the Gliding School, Sergeant Vardy would complete between 4 and 8 launches, weather depending. During these launches he learnt basic controls of the aircraft, how to use thermals to maintain altitude and most importantly and most challengingly to him how to successfully launch and land the aircraft. As Sergeant Vardy became more competent in controlling the aircraft, he began practicing his gliding circuits… Read More »

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• Coalville Army and Air Cadets join Veterans to Honour Local Victoria Cross Recipients

  29 Oct 2019

  

  Air cadets from 1188 (Coalville) Squadron joined with Coalville Army Cadets and members of the British Legion to pay their respects to two local men who were awarded the Victoria Cross. Coalville Air cadets joined with the local army cadets and members of the Whitwick Branch of the Royal British Legion on Saturday 26th October in two acts of remembrance. Everyone met at the cemetery in Whitwick to remember Thomas Elsdon Ashford. He was a private in The Royal Fusiliers, British Army during the Second Anglo-Afghan War. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for conspicuous gallantry during a sortie from Kandahar, on the 16th August, 1880. He helped rescue and carry Private Massey for a distance of over 200 yards, under the fire of the enemy. He was assisted by Lieutenant William St. Lucien Chase. Private Massey had taken shelter in a blockhouse. Several times they were compelled to rest, but they persevered in bringing him to a place of safety. After his military… Read More »

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• Long Eaton Air Cadet is Licensed to Fly

  15 Sep 2019

  

  Cadet Warrant Officer (CWO) James Bland, a 19 year old Air Cadet from 2195 (Long Eaton) Squadron, Royal Air Force Air Cadets (RAFAC), has just qualified as a pilot. After six weeks of intensive training at the Dundee based Tayside Aviation, James has become a fully licensed private pilot. He has been awarded his Private Pilots Licence at Tayside Aviation, through a Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Sir Michael Knight Scholarship. As part of his training James has had to complete a number of theory exams including Air Law, Radio Communications and Pilot Navigation, as well as showing competency in piloting light aircraft. As part of his flying training he completed solo circuits, short navigation flights, qualifying cross country flight (155 NM), a skills test, forced landings and emergency procedures. James was fortunate in gaining an Air Chief Marshal Sir Michael Knight Flying Scholarship through the Royal Air Force Charitable… Read More »

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• 209 selected as Marshall Trophy Winners

  20 May 2019

  

  209 (West Bridgford) Squadron has been selected as this year’s joint winners of the Marshall Trophy Competition, alongside 88 Battle Squadron, Sussex Wing. The Squadron was also nominated in 2018, being one of the top six finalists from across the Corps, to represent Central and Region as the most improved Squadron in the Corps over a three year period.  Since the nomination the staff and cadets at the squadron worked tirelessly to ensure all areas were fully prepared for the inspection. Sir Arthur Marshall was born in Cambridge, England and was educated at the Perse School in Cambridge and at Tonbridge School in Kent, completing his education at Jesus College, Cambridge, in 1922, where he earned a degree in engineering. He learned to fly in 1928, and shortly thereafter created an airstrip near his family”s Cambridge home, which by 1929 had turned into a full-fledged airfield. Six years later, Marshall… Read More »

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• Commandant Enrolls New Cadets at 1936 Newton Squadron

  06 Apr 2019

  

  On Saturday 6th April 1936 Newton Royal Air Force Air Cadets welcomed Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty to the unit to oversee the enrolment parade of a recent intake of new recruits. After completing six months of training 22 cadet had the honour of being enrolled  by South and East Midlands Wing Padre, Mr John Hewer accompanied by Squadron Padre, Rev. Fred Connell. Also in attendance were dignitaries from the French Air Force, currently being hosted in the UK by Air Cdre McCafferty, whilst they are undertaking research to further develop a fledging French Air Cadet Corps. In addition to presenting the 22 newly enrolled cadets with numerous certificates and awards Air Cdre McCafferty also formally opened the new flight simulator facility on the squadron.  The Cadets, ably supported by the Squadron Civilian Committee, have carried out fundraising activities throughout the last eighteen months to enable two flight simulators to be… Read More »

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• Sqn Ldr Carol Haynes Recognised in New Years Honours List 2019

  01 Jan 2019

  

  Sqn Ldr Carol Haynes contribution to the Royal Air Force Air Cadets was recognised in the Royal Air Force Honours List 2019.  As well as holding the post of Officer Commanding 5F Northampton Squadron Sqn Ldr Haynes is the First Aid Officer for Central and East Region. Sqn Ldr Haynes works tirelessly on 5F Northampton Squadron leading and supporting cadets through the full range of activities on offer to them, as well as overseeing Cadet and Staff First Aid Training across the six wings in Central and East Region. Sqn Ldr Haynes was presented with her Commendation from Air Officer Commanding Number 22 Group by Wg Cdr Pass at South and East Midlands Wing Field Day 2019.         

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• Triple Junior Leader Graduation Success

  29 Apr 2018

  

  South and East Midlands Wing are celebrating three candidates graduating from the prestigious Junior Leaders course: FS Flynn from 2229 Loughborough Squadron, FS Drinkwater from 858 Rushden Squadron and Sgt Rich from 138 (1st Nottingham) Squadron. The Junior Leaders course is designed to develop leadership and management skills in young adults through a military fashion, whilst gaining an ILM Level 3Qualification in Leadership and Management.  The course takes place over 8 months and is both physically and mentally demanding, it is often regarded as one of the toughest courses for a Cadet to complete, with only 0.002% of cadets graduating from the course. To gain a highly sought after place on the course candidates first have to pass the selection weekend.  Once successful the cadets undertake 8 training weekends, followed by one consolidation weekend and an arduous 10-day test phase. In between attending the training weekend candidates are required to organise,… Read More »

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• Sqn Ldr Hudson receives New Years Honour

  30 Dec 2017

  

  Squadron Leader Jodi Hudson has received an AOC 22 training group commendation for services to the Royal Air Force Air Cadets. This is centred around his outstanding leadership of the Cadet Development Team in delivering high level quality cadet training across the South and East Midlands Wing. Congratulations Sir very well deserved

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• New Year, New Challenge?

  20 Dec 2017

  

  Are you looking for a new challenge in the New Year? Can you spare time to volunteer with the Air Cadets? Cadet Squadrons in Leicester are looking to recruit adult volunteers to support the development of the cadets at the five squadrons within the Leicester city area.  No prior military service or experience is necessary as development and training will be provided, all that’s needed is a drive and a passion to lead young people with an interest in aviation or military skills. Having an interest in military and aviation will obviously help! Recruitment is open to both uniformed and civilian instructor roles. To demonstrate the opportunities that are available an adult recruitment night is being held at 2070 Glenfield Sqn, Glenfield Primary School at 7:30pm on Tuesday 6th February.  To book your space at the event email WSC3.semidlands@aircadets.org

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• Recognition for 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Squadron

  14 Dec 2017

  

  OC South & East Midlands Wing, Wing Commander Pass visited the 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Squadron on Monday 11th for two reasons.

  Firstly, to award FS (RAFAC) Theyers his Cadet Forces Medal for 12 continuous years of uniformed service, which he has spent at 2195 (Long Eaton) Squadron and with 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Squadron This is a fantastic sign of recognition for FS Theyers and a great way to thank him for all his hard work and commitment to the organisation!

  Secondly, Wing Commander Pass conducted a Cadet Warrant Officer interview. A rank which is the pinnacle of the Air Cadet career, with only 1% of Air Cadets to reaching the rank. A huge congratulations to CWO Matthew Osbiston who passed the interview and was presented with the promotion immediately!

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• Charlie named best Air Cadet of 2017

  11 Dec 2017

  

  2071 (Stamford) Squadron Air Training Corps have held their annual awards evening where Cdt Charlie Lock, 13, of Wittering was named the best cadet of the year. The Squadron Commander, Flt Lt Phil Prudham, said “Charlie is an excellent cadet who is always one of the first to volunteer for activities and fully deserves this award”. The best NCO was awarded to Cpl Connor McGinlay who was subsequently promoted to Sergeant and the Commanding Officer’s Trophy was awarded to Cdt Marlow Dupont. The Squadron was joined at the awards evening by Councillor Anthony Story, the Mayor of Stamford, who is a former 2071 Squadron cadet. Group Captain Tony Keeling, the Station Commander of RAF Wittering and Wing Commander Andy Pass, Officer Commanding South and East Midlands Wing ATC also presented awards which included BTECs in Aviation Studies and Personal Development and Teamwork. The Squadron is holding an open day for… Read More »

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• Coalville Air Cadets and Veterans Honour Local Victoria Cross Recipients

  01 Dec 2017

  

  Air cadets from 1188 (Coalville) Squadron joined with members of the British Legion to pay their respects to two local men who were awarded the Victoria Cross. Coalville Air cadets joined with members of the Whitwick Branch of the Royal British Legion on Saturday 28th October in two acts of remembrance. The cadets met at the cemetery in Whitwick to remember Thomas Elsdon Ashford. He was a private in The Royal Fusiliers, British Army during the Second Anglo-Afghan War. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for conspicuous gallantry during a sortie from Kandahar, on the 16th August, 1880. He helped rescue and carry Private Massey for a distance of over 200 yards, under the fire of the enemy.He was assisted by Lieutenant William St. Lucien Chase. Private Massey had taken shelter in a blockhouse. Several times they were compelled to rest, but they persevered in bringing him to a place of… Read More »

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• Senior Boys Storm To Rugby 7’s Victory!

  07 Nov 2017

  

  South and East Midlands Wing are the Central and East Regional Rugby 7’s Champions.

  Sunday 5th November saw the Inter Wing competition held at RAF Wyton, where the Senior Boys team, Captained by FSgt Luke Flynn of 2229 Loughborough Sqn and Managed by ATC FSgt James Marman were unbeaten in their run at the trophy, which has never been won by South and East Midlands Wing before.

  Also held on the same day was the Inter Wing Senior Girls Netball Competition, from which the South and East Midlands Team returned with Bronze Medals.

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• 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron – Officially the Best Large Air Cadet Squadron in the UK

  07 Nov 2017

  

  An Air Cadet Squadron from the East Midlands has been crowned the best in the Country and has been awarded the Freedom of the District of South Derbyshire and has said farewell to their Squadron Commander after 33 years in Command, all within the space of a week.

  The historic week for 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron started with a presentation evening where Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty CBE, Commandant of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets (RAFAC) presented the Morris Trophy to the 1211 Squadron, thereby officially recognising them as the best large Squadron in the UK.

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• Above and beyond

  06 Nov 2017

  

  Every year, there is a special award for the SNCO, WO or CI that goes “above and beyond” and this year, Warrant Officer Alan Wiggs of 378 (Mannock) Squadron was the deserving recipient. 
   
  WO Dominic Chisholm, Wing Warrant Officer of South and East Midlands Wing, presented the award to WO Wiggs on Monday (06/11/17) at his unit in front of all the cadets and staff. However, this award is usually present at the SNCO, WO and CI’s annual Dinning in Night held at RAF Cranwell. The Wing Warrant Officer had to award it to Alan at the unit as he sadly missed the dinner this year and this makes part of the reason why he has received the award (not out of sympathy we assure you!). 

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• ATC awarded Freedom of South Derbyshire

  03 Nov 2017

  

  A youth organisation named the finest in the country has been granted the Freedom of South Derbyshire.

  The 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron Air Training Corps (ATC) received the highest honour the District Council can bestow on Thursday.

  It means the cadets have freedom of entry into the District on ‘all ceremonial occasions with colours flying and bands playing’.

  The title of Honorary Freeman is recognition of the work done to help future generations to prosper, as well as the tireless work carried out in local communities.

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• South & East Midlands Wing – Sector 2 Training Day

  29 Oct 2017

  

  On Sunday 29th October 2017, 7 Squadrons from South & East Midlands Wing ‘Sector 2’ held a Training Day in Derby, to share knowledge and skills for the benefit of the Cadets.

  115 Air Cadets and Staff from Melton Mowbray (1279), Loughborough (2229), Long Eaton (2195), Ilkeston (348), Swadlincote (1211) and Coalville (1188) travelled to the new 126 (City of Derby) Squadron Headquarters to take part in the Training Day. The Cadets took part in activities including Drill, Radio, Air Recce, Aeromodelling, Leadership, Music and BTEC (in Teamwork and Personal Development). First Aid Training was also provided for Squadron Staff.

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• Nottingham Cadets Forces Compete to see who is the Best

  19 Sep 2017

  

  The Nottingham High School played host to Nottingham’s third Inter Cadet Service Competition on Saturday 16th September.

  Nottingham units of the Sea Cadet Corps, Army Cadet Force, Royal Air Force Air Cadets and members of the High School’s Combined Cadet Force competed to become Nottingham’s best Cadet Service in the Cadet 17 Competition.

  The cadets, aged 15 to 18 years of age, completed in eight activities, Air Rifle Target Shooting, A “Gun Run”, a First Aid exercise, Foot Drill,a vehicle pull, climbing wall, and “Battle PT”.

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• BEESTON CADETS HARD AT WORK

  18 Sep 2017

  

  It was a busy weekend for cadets from 1359 (Beeston) Squadron Air Training Corps as they carried out public duties and participated in joint exercises on 16th and 17th September at locations across the City of Nottingham.

  Saturday saw cadets proudly participating in the Royal Air Force Association Wings Appeal by helping to raising money in Beeston Town Centre.

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• BEESTON Cadets remember The Battle of Britain

  17 Sep 2017

  

  Sunday 17 September 2017 saw 120 cadets from the Nottingham Squadrons of the Air Training Corps attend St Mary’s Church on High Pavement Nottingham as they have annually over the past 77 years in order to pay respect to those airmen of the RAF who fought in the 1940 Battle of Britain.

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• Apprenticeship Pathway Opportunities

  13 Sep 2017

  

  I’m delighted to announce that under the construct of the RAF Air Cadets Development Trust, South & East Midlands Wing have been selected to pilot a new and exciting initiative in signposting Air Cadets to possible apprenticeship opportunities within our local area and across a wide range of industries.

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• 2418 offer their service

  23 Jun 2017

  

  Recently, cadets from 2418 (Sherwood) Squadron offered their service, to the Wigman Road Army Reserve Centre for their annual sports presentation dinner. The cadets through the evening waited on the guests, serving the 3 courses they were having that evening.

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• RAF Air Cadets Youth First Aid Course Success

  23 Jun 2017

  

  17th and 18th June saw 1359 (Beeston) Squadron Air Training Corps host a Youth First Aid course in conjunction with 209 (west Bridgford) Squadron. Cadets spent 2 days including a 3-part assessment, to learn a multitude of essential first aid skills such as CPR, dealing with a choking casualty, broken bones and asthma attacks. 10 cadets from 1359 Sqn attended and completed the course successfully which now qualifies them as a first aider for 3 years. The award is a St John Ambulance nationally recognised qualification. It also entitles them to compete in our annual competition against other squadrons within the South and East Midlands Wing later this year.

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• 1359 attend Lord Lieutenants Garden Party

  23 Jun 2017

  

  The sweltering weekend of the 17th and 18th June saw 1359(Beeston) Squadron’s Cadet Warrant Officer Jade Cox on duty at Caunton Manor in Nottinghamshire in her role as the Lord Lieutenants Cadet.
  CWO Cox was appointed to the prestigious position of Lord Lieutenants Cadet in September 2016 and is charged with representing the Royal Air Force Cadets in the County of Nottinghamshire as the Lord Lieutenants personal cadet. This involves accompanying the Lord Lieutenant, Sir John Peace at events he attends on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen.

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• Successful Prospective Uniform and Civilian Instructor Course

  12 Jun 2017

  

  Staff from throughout the South and East Midlands Wing have attended the Prospective Uniform Course which was held at RAF Wittering over the weekend 10 – 11 June as part of their ongoing career development. 22 Civilian Instructors took part in the Staff Development Team course which serves as an introduction to the ATC or to assist in the decision making process for candidates who are at the point of choosing a career as a Commissioned Officer or Senior Non Commissioned Officer within the Cadet Forces.

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