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Current News from our Region
Please note,
articles remain on this page for approximately a month before being
re-located to the News Archive Page. Other specific news related to Recruitment,
Training, Adventure Training, Sport, Radio or First Aid, can be found on their relevant pages by using the
links shown below or the main links above.
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If you have an
article you would wish to be considered for publication on this or any of the
other news pages, please e-mail it to the Region MCO, Sqn Ldr Alan Wiggins for
consideration. It should be also copied to your appropriate Wing MCO.
Please ensure that any
article or photograph meets the publication requirements of ACP50 AL2.
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A Massive Loss to Herts & Bucks Wing
Flt Lt George Fitch passes away after short illness
Herts and Bucks Wing is mourning the loss of one of its most popular
officers, following the announcement of the death of Flt Lt George Fitch
after a short period of illness.
 Flt
Lt Fitch, Officer Commanding 1365 (Aylesbury) Sqn, passed away on Saturday
with his family present, having been admitted to hospital two weeks ago.
The news has come as a great shock to his many friends in the Wing, who
remember him as a lively and active individual, right up until this month.
George’s involvement with the ATC began at the age of 13 when he joined 459
(Windsor) Sqn as a cadet, leaving five years later as a Cdt FS. He
subsequently joined the police force, serving just over 30 years before
retiring in 1994.
He resurrected his connections with the ATC as an adult, initially by
joining 613 DF Gliding School (White Waltham) as a CI, transferring later to
613 Volunteer Gliding School at RAF Halton.
In March 1982, he moved to 1365 (Aylesbury) Sqn as a CI, taking his
commission a year later. He took command of Aylesbury Squadron in 1995 and
ran it until his death. He held the Cadet Forces Medal with bar and Queen’s
Jubilee Medal, as well as Police long service and good conduct medals. He
was also the recipient of a Lord Lieutenant’s Commendation in 2006.
Since January 2009, Flt Lt Fitch had also helped out at Herts and Bucks Wing
HQ, ensuring new applications, extensions of service, resignations and the
like have been kept on top of whilst the office has been short-staffed.
Married to Janet for 49 years, George also leaves three grown-up children
and grandchildren.
Officer Commanding Herts and Bucks Wing ATC, Wg Cdr Paul Mimpress, said: “It
was with the deepest sadness and sorrow that I learnt, and subsequently
informed the Wing, of this news. George’s contribution to his squadron, to
the Wing, and to the Air Training Corps, was immense. He was also a
thoroughly decent man and always a pleasure to work with. I am sure the
whole Wing joins me in offering my deepest sympathies to Janet at this
terrible time.”
Many other staff and cadets from across the Wing have been quick to pay
tribute. Flt Lt James Gilson, officer commanding 1563 (Buckingham) Sqn,
spent many years at Aylesbury and knew George for 24 years. He said: "George
was a real gent, one of the best people that you would want to meet. He was
a real stickler for the rules, always great with advice - he taught me so
much. It's such a sad loss."
Wing Sports Officer, Flt Lt Andy Baker, said: "George was always the
perfect gentleman, a great character with a wicked sense of humour. We have
lost a great guy.”
Wing Media and Communications Officer, Fg Off Ben Wilkinson, said: “George
was the friendliest, most helpful man you could hope to meet, and always the
first to offer help whenever it was needed. He was passionate about
photography and did a great deal to publicise the ATC with his brilliant
images – but he never wanted any recognition, that’s just the way he was.
He’ll be very sadly missed in so many respects.”
Funeral arrangements are to be confirmed.
Image: Flt Lt George Fitch, pictured last year
by: Fg Off Ben Wilkinson RAF VR(T) Wing MCO - Herts & Bucks Wg
22 Aug 2010
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The Commandant Calls
Air Commodore Barbara Cooper,
Commandant Air Cadets, recently paid her first visit to Central & East
Region ACO Headquarters at RAF Brampton.
 The
visit was an opportunity for her to meet with some of the Region staff as
well to receive presentations on the current work being undertaken by the
Region.
Region Commandant, Gp Capt Brett
Morrell, supported by the Assistant Region Commandant, Sqn Ldr Brian Shorter
and Region Staff Officers, Wg Cmdr Previn Ladwa ATO and Sqn Ldr Alan Wiggins
MCO, gave short presentations covering their respective working areas before
answering questions from the Commandant.
They were joined for lunch at
Brampton Park Officers Mess by a previous colleague of Air Commodore Cooper,
Gp Capt Bea Walcot. the current Station Commander of RAF Brampton, Henlow
and Wyton.
The day proved to be extremely
productive, with wide ranging discussions concerning the future objectives
of the Air Cadet Organisation, a well as an opportunity to debate current
financial constraints and objectives. Gp Capt Morrell later said: "The
day proved extremely useful. allowing us too demonstrate to Air Commodore
Cooper the solid and effective work that is being undertaken within Central
& East Region, both in respect of the training we are offering staff and
cadets alike as well as taken the opportunities for cadets to experience the
'blue and overseas camp' opportunities on service establishments."
Image: Sqn Ldr
Wiggins. Wg Cmdr Ladwa. Air Commodore Cooper, Gp Capt Morrell & Sqn Ldr
Sorter, outside Central & East Region HQ
by: Sqn Ldr Alan Wiggins RAF
VR(T) Region MCO Central & East Region
22 Aug 2010
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Hawk Flight Experience for Keen Cadet
A cadet from 220 (St Albans) Sqn has taken to the skies in a fast jet as a
special guest of the Royal Air Force.
 Cdt
Ewan Calder (16) joined an RAF training sortie in a Hawk – the same aircraft
as that flown by the famous Red Arrows display team. Cdt Calder got the
amazing opportunity whilst on summer camp at RAF Valley in north Wales.
He was one of dozens of cadets from Herts and Bucks Wing who spent a week at
the front line Royal Air Force station on the island of Anglesey, visiting
the various units based there and experiencing a taste of life as a member
of the RAF.
As well as seeing the work of the fast jet training units which operate the
Hawk aircraft, cadets visited the Search and Rescue squadron based at
Valley, spent time in the airfield control tower observing Air Traffic
Controllers, got the chance to practice target shooting on the range, and
much more.
 And
when they weren’t getting tours of the station's units, the cadets spent
their time taking part in sports, adventure training activities and
competitions, as well as more relaxed social activities and visits to
attractions in the local area.
Cdt Calder, who is interested in joining the Royal Air Force in the future,
was selected for the fast jet flight opportunity after impressing staff on
the camp with his performance.
He said: “The flight was amazing. I can’t put into words how thrilling it
is to travel at such high speeds in such an incredible aircraft. As an Air
Cadet you get lots of great opportunities to experience what life is like
doing different jobs in the RAF – but this one was extra special!”
Officer Commanding 220 (St Albans) Sqn, Flt Lt Paul Reardon, said: “Ewan
is a very enthusiastic cadet and I’m pleased he was selected for this
fantastic opportunity – who amongst us wouldn't jump at the chance to
experience a flight in such an impressive aircraft?"
Images Flt Lt George Fitch RAF VR(T): 1.Cdt Ewan Calder in
the cockpit before his Hawk flight; 2) Cdt Calder with his pilot
by: Fg Off Ben Wilkinson RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 220 (St Albans) Sqn - Herts &
Bucks Wg
20 Aug 2010
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A Most Excellent Adventure
With the ATC Camp Season in full flow, it was the turn of six cadets from
163 (Coventry-Phoenix) Sqn to experience the delights of an ATC Camp at RAF
Cranwell during August.
 However,
this wasn’t to be an ordinary camp for Cdt Sgts Kevin Dale and Enya Tabram
as this was to be their first camp as Cdt Sgts and for Cdts Oliver Coles,
Elouise Messam and Chloe Morrow, this was to be their first camp since
joining the Squadron. For Cdt Cpl Shane Lammas, this was a chance to pass on
the knowledge that he had obtained from attending numerous camps at as a
member of 163 Sqn.
So with excitement and enthusiasm running very high and with the objective
of seeing exactly what life on an RAF Station is like, the cadets were
Cranwell bound, with their home for the week whilst on the Station being
building 329E.
Hard work by the ACLO and Sqn Ldr Martin Harrison, Camp Commandant, resulted
in the cadets being presented with a full and very enjoyable Camp Programme
which saw the cadets taking part in various activities from shooting on the
Station’s Range, Section Visits to No 45 and 55 Sqns, Work Experience, to a
visit to The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight at RAF Coningsby.
However, even though the range of things for the cadets to undertake made
the days long, the opportunity for the cadets to relax was made available to
them, with the cadets being able to take part in the Camp Commandants quiz
night, a bowling tournament and the traditional last night disco as well as
a whistle stop tour of Lincoln.
Flt Lt Les Vile, Officer Commanding 163 Squadron who attended the camp in
the role of Adjutant, said: “This has been an excellent week for the
cadets. They have worked very hard and well together and have benefitted
from a very full, informative and enjoyable camp programme.
“This has also been an ideal opportunity for those cadets who are new to
the squadron to experience something that is new and different. The way in
the cadets approached this camp is exemplary and they are a credit to their
families, themselves, the Squadron and the Corps and I am very proud to be
their Commanding Officer. For them this has been a most excellent
adventure.”
by: Flt Lt Steve Rayner RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 163 (Coventry-Phoenix) Sqn - W&B
Wg
20 Aug 2010
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They Died For Freedom
 On
Sunday 15th August the South East & Eastern Area of the Royal Air Forces
Association held a 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain Service of
Remembrance at the Air Forces Memorial, Runnymede.
This imposing memorial consisting of a shrine and cloister, records in stone
the names of more than 20,000 airmen who have no known grave.
Maintaining close ties with RAFA’s King’s Lynn branch, 3 cadets from 42F
(King’s Lynn) Sqn took the opportunity to ‘escort’ the Branch Standard to
Runnymede in order that they could also honour the memory of two 42F wartime
cadets whose names are recorded there.
 On
arrival, thirty RAFA branch Standards mustered, together with an Air Cadet
band and a party of wreath bearers from 398 (Staines & Egham) Sqn. The
King’s Lynn cadets were immediately invited to join the parade and march
with 398 Squadron to the memorial.
The three, Cadets Daniel Brock, Ben Goldsmith and Connor Johns, all agreed
that it was a gesture that they were proud to accept.
Following the service of remembrance the Lynn cadets searched out the names
of Plt Off George Raymond Bradfield (of Hunstanton) who was killed aged 21
on 26th April 1945 and of Sgt Kenneth Percy Middleton who died aged just 19
on 31st July 1943. Named poppy crosses were placed at the base of their
respective memorial panels.
“It was a privilege to attend the remembrance service,” said Cadet
Daniel Brock, “and then to find the names of our own Squadron members. To
be asked to join the parade was a bit of a shock, but we were very proud to
be able to.”
Photographs & Report by: Mike Lister Sqn MCO 42F (King’s Lynn) Sqn - Norfolk
& Suffolk Wg
17 Aug 2010
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Cadets Live On Air
On Thursday 12 August, three members of the ATC took part in a live
interview during the Mark Powlett show on BBC Coventry and Warwickshire
Radio.
Flt Lt Paul Hincks, Cdt FS Alice Hartopp and Cdt Cpl Tom Green from 121
(Nuneaton) Sqn joined the BBC’s Mark Powlett for his afternoon show, which
features people and places of Coventry and Warwickshire.
During the live interview, Paul, Alice, Tom and Mark Powlett discussed the
activities and opportunities offered by the Air Cadet Movement to young
people within the Coventry and Warwickshire area.
After the broadcast Flt Lt Paul Hincks said: “This interview has been an
excellent opportunity to promote Air Cadet Movement, reaching a wider
audience then normal and hopefully giving them an insight into the many
activities that we have to offer young people within the Coventry and
Warwickshire area. Being interviewed live on air is a bit of a nerve-racking
experience, thankfully Mark Powlett’s relaxed friendly style soon made us
feel at ease and I must say that FS Alice Hartopp and Cdt Cpl Tom Green did
an excellent job of representing their fellow cadets.”
Image: Flt Lt Paul Hincks, Cdt FS Alice Hartopp and Cdt Cpl
Tom Green from 121 (Nuneaton) Squadron joined the BBC’s Mark Powlett in the
studio for his afternoon show
by: Flt Lt Paul Hincks RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn - W&B Wg
16 Aug 2010
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It's Written in the Sand!
On Saturday 7th August, 31 cadets and 5 staff set off on the long trail down
to RAF St Mawgan in Cornwall to attend the second week of the Warwickshire
and Birmingham Wing annual camp at the station.
Cornwall in August is obviously
very busy and all on the coach soon found themselves stuck in traffic jams
on the M5. After a very weary day on the roads, all arrived safely at the
camp at 1700 and all the camp staff and cadets were soon enjoying their
first meal in the Nimrod mess.
Sqn Ldr Foster, camp commandant for the week, introduced all the staff to
the cadets on Saturday evening, and he then laid out his plans for the week
in terms of training.
On the first full day in Cornwall, all the cadets were taken to Lands End,
the furthest point west in the United Kingdom. The cadets were then taken to
the National Maritime museum in Falmouth. Not all the cadets travelled to
Lands End and Falmouth though, half of them had been selected to go gliding
with 626 VGS based at Predannack, an airfield just south of Helston. This
VGS flies the Viking glider and all had a good day with all the cadets
managing to get in 3 launches each.
It wasn’t just gliders that the cadets managed to fly though, also at RAF St
Mawgan was a detachment from 3 AEF, normally based at Colerne in Wiltshire.
The staff were in contact with the AEF early each morning and this meant
that by the end of the week, all the cadets had either flown in gliders at
the VGS or in the Tutor at the AEF.
 On
the Sunday evening, all the cadets and staff were transported to the beach
at Porth which is just to the north of Newquay. A great deal of sport was
played and the cadets were also tasked with a special project by the staff.
They had to find a wet piece of sand and write in extremely big letters, ATC
Summer Camp, 2010. The reason soon became clear to them, as Flt Lt Chapman,
OC 84 Sqn, flew over in his light aircraft to take photographs of the cadets
and the words in the sand. He then put on a fantastic aerobatic display for
the cadets, and everybody else on the beach.
The only really bad day in terms of weather loomed on the Tuesday and the
planned visit to Flambards was cancelled.
The training continued at a pace during the week with dry weapons training
and also weapons handling tests been taken. One of the early highlights of
the week was a session with an RAF PTI in the station gymnasium where all
the cadets and one member of staff were set the task of passing the RAF
fitness test. A good number of both male and female cadets passed the test,
but sadly, the member of staff failed miserably!
RAF St Mawgan is home to the Survival, Escape, Resistance and Extraction
Training Centre. This is where all fixed and rotary wing aircrew have to
come to learn various methods of training in terms of surviving in hostile
territories. A visit was arranged during the week to the Survival equipment
section where all the cadets were shown survival equipment, and they were
also allowed to try on flying suits and helmets. All the staff and cadets
found this visit extremely interesting.
Following the visit to the SES, all the cadets and staff were transported to
Mawgan Porth to complete a small section of the South West Coastal Path. The
scenery was stunning and all enjoyed this great walk.
A day was planned on the range along with visits to the station armoury. The
Number 8 rifle and L98A2 were fired along with the L39 Target rifle. A
fantastic day ensued with a total of 12 cadets winning their Wing Marksman
badges, and 4 winning their Sqn marksman badges. A great deal of coaching
was carried out by various members of staff and this seemed to have paid off
at the end of the day with this fantastic result. The cadets were allowed to
handle a myriad of differing weapons in the armoury, ranging from RPG rocket
launchers to Sqn Ldr Fosters own personal favourite, the American Garand
rifle.
On the Friday the cadets were taken to the Davidstow Military museum. This
is a private museum which was set up to remember both the old RAF Davidstow
airfield, but also to commemorate all the services who have served in the
Cornwall area.
On the last day of the camp, both flights took part in a drill competition
which was judged by Sqn Ldr Mccarroll. It was a really close competition,
however, B flight just edged it and came out on top. All the cadets and
staff then took part in a final parade where it was announced that B flight
had won the overall competition as best flight during the week. All those
cadets who had qualified as marksman were also presented with their badges.
Sqn Ldr Foster, Camp Commandant commented: “We've all had a fantastic
week at RAF St Mawgan and I would like to thank both the cadets and staff
for ensuring that the week was a success. We have completed so much during
the week and the highlights have to be the amount of flying the cadets
completed, and also the fantastic number of marksman’s badges we were able
to give out on the final parade. I would also like to thank all the cadets
and staff for working so hard during the week, we have all worked extremely
long days, but we have achieved some fantastic results.”
by: Fg Off Simon Jennings RAF VR(T) - W&B Wg
16 Aug 2010
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 Tales
of the Deep
Cadets from 2229 (Loughborough) Sqn recently took part in an inter flight
competition at Leicester Outdoor Pursuit Centre.
All the cadets thoroughly enjoyed the night working as teams to tie up drums
to make the rafts using the various knots learnt that evening.
Later that evening they took part in a race between the two flights, 'C
Flight' being victorious after one of the knots on 'A Flight's' raft began
to work loose.
by: CI Baguley 2229 (Loughborough) Sqn - South & East Midlands Wg
14 Aug 2010
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Claire Leads The Way
 A
cadet from 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn has recently returned from the Air Cadet
Leadership Course (ACLC) at RAFC Cranwell. Cdt Sgt Claire Kelly (16)
completed the gruelling leadership course, which lasts a week, finishing as
top student on the course.
The week is designed to test cadets in leadership and team working skills
through a series of physical and mental challenges.
 Each
days training started at 0500 and finished at 2300 and consisted of command
tasks, drill, bridge building, room and uniform inspections. This was
coupled with constant physical training in the form of log runs, a 16 mile
walk and a timed 1.5 mile run at 0530 in which Sgt Kelly crossed the finish
line first. The week finished with a graduation parade outside College Hall
Officers Mess where Claire received her award for top student from
Commandant Air Cadets, Air Commodore Barbara Cooper.
Cdt Sgt Kelly said: “It was a challenging but amazing week, I learnt a
lot about leadership which I can bring back to use at the Squadron. The
skills I learnt can easily be transferred into civilian life.”
Plt Off Chris Cox from Bassingbourn Squadron added: “The skills that
Sergeant Kelly has learnt and developed during her week on the Air Cadet
Leadership Course will help her throughout her life. The Air Cadets helps to
develop young people not only in military subjects but subjects that are
invaluable in civilian life.”
Images: 1. Cdt Sgt Claire Kelly receives her award for
top student from Air Commodore Barbara Cooper; 2. Cdt Sgt Claire Kelly
receives a briefing prior to a command task.
by: Sgt Gemma Cox ATC Sqn MCO 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg
14 Aug 2010
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Rheindahlen 2010
Cdt Cpl Ryan Slater from 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn has spent a week at the
Rheindahlen Military Complex a British forces base in Mönchengladbach, North
Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
The week is designed to give cadets an insight into military life overseas
as well as an opportunity to gain an understanding of local history and
culture. Cadets were also able to develop leadership and teamwork skills.
Rheindahlen functions as the main headquarters for British forces in Germany
and looks more like a medium size town than a military base consisting
mostly of administrative buildings, living quarters, schools, shops and
other areas typical of civilian towns.
Cadets visited the German cultural City of Cologne along with Arnhem in the
Netherlands. Arnhem was one of the main areas of fighting during Operation
Market Garden during World War II and saw Lt Col John Frost lead a small
contingent of British paratroopers defend the Arnhem road bridge against
strong German resistance. The bridge is now named the John Frost Bridge.
During the trip cadets went target shooting with Cpl Slater being judged the
best shot. When relaxing cadets tried their hand at archery, go karting, a
high ropes course and went to a local waterpark.
Cpl Slater said: “It was an amazing trip, I got to meet cadets from other
squadrons and learnt a lot about the local area around where we stayed.”
Plt Off Chris Cox of Bassingbourn Squadron added: “Rheindahlen is just
one of the many opportunities Air Cadets have for overseas travel, this year
alone cadets from the Bassingbourn have visited Cyprus, Germany and
Gibraltar on numerous occasions and even Borneo.”
Image: Rheindahlen group photo
by: Sgt Gemma Cox ATC Sqn MCO 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg
14 Aug 2010
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  Acting
his Age?
The Regional Chaplain, Rev Roy Muttram is still refusing to 'act his age'.
At camp with Warwickshire and
Birmingham Wing, he was inveigled into joining Flt Lt M Aftab on the Water
Chute at Flamards, and also proved a miserable failure in a go kart.
by: Rev Roy Muttram Region Chaplain Central & East Region
11 Aug 2010
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IACE Trip For Adam
 Cdt
FS Adam Kelly (18), a cadet from 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn has just returned
from the trip of a lifetime to Canada as part of the International Air Cadet
Exchange (IACE).
Adam’s trip was packed with activities, action and adventure as the group
visited the impressive Niagara Falls onboard the 'Maid of the Mist' boat,
went white water rafting and helicopter flying with the Canadian Air Force.
The group also visited Montreal, Quebec, Ottawa and Toronto with their host
families. In Toronto they were able to visit the CN Tower and in Ottawa they
toured Parliament Hill, home of the Parliament of Canada. The trip finished
with everyone gathered together for a farewell dinner.
Cdt FS Kelly said: “I had an absolutely fantastic experience of meeting
people from all over the world and just the Canadian way of life is an
experience in itself.”
Image: Adam proudly displaying his Squadron rugby shirt at
Niagara Falls
by: Sgt Gemma Cox ATC sqn MCO 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg
10 Aug 2010
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Sandy Cadets on their Pedals
 On
Saturday 8th August, a group of cadets and staff from 22 (Sandy) Sqn
undertook an 18 mile cycle ride, as part of their summer training program.
The day took the cadets from Sandy to Priory Park in Bedford, and up to
Cardington, then back onto the cycle path to Sandy. The cadets were tested
throughout the day on their map reading and navigation skills, in
preparation for their upcoming Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions.
Cdt Adam Holloway (15) said: “It was a really fun day and good exercise.
Map reading while cycle was a new experience, as you can’t look at the map
on the move. Luckily we only got lost once. Definitely want to do this
again”.
by: CI Jeffrey Henshaw Sqn MCO 22 (Sandy) Sqn - Beds & cambs Wg
10 Aug 2010
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Cadets help Donkeys Lead the Lions
A group of cadets from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn, braved Coventry’s awful
weather on Saturday 7 August to help the Coventry Leofric Lions with their
42nd Donkey Derby.
 With
more than 40 charity stalls, featuring fine food and drink, and traditional
fun and games, like tombola, face painting, and hook a duck, the squadrons
stall fitted in nicely and the occasion proved a big hit, despite the
weather.
As well as the recruitment and charity stall the cadets together with staff,
faced the downpours head on to litter pick at the event which was held in
the War Memorial park.
There were seven donkey races throughout day, the first started by the Lord
Mayor of Coventry, Cllr Brian Kelsey. All the races were sponsored by local
companies with the proceeds from the TOTE going to chosen charities.
The squadrons fundraising stall was part of many squadron activities taking
place this year to help raise money to fund a much needed squadron mini bus.
The stall was even visited by the Lord Mayor and Mayoress of Coventry as
they walked around the event.
 After
chatting to the cadets the Lord Mayor Cllr Brian Kelsey and his wife Lady
Mayoress Brenda Kelsey had a go at the squadrons fundraising activity, open
the jar. Though the Lord Mayor didn’t not manage to open the jar the Lady
Mayoress commented: “I never seen this activity before, it is a very good
idea.”
Even though the heavy downpours kept the crowds away the open the jar
activity raised a little bit more towards the mini bus fund. Everyone who
came along enjoyed themselves and the Donkey Derby was great fun for those
who took part.
CI Roni Tillman of 2438 Squadron said: "Once again 2438 Squadron have
shown their commitment to supporting local events, enabling the cadets to
help put something back into the community as well as putting local youth in
a positive light. The cadets did an excellent job at keeping the grounds
clear of litter and maintaining a presence within the park. The money raised
from the fundraiser adds a little bit more to help buy a much needed
squadron mini bus, so thank you to those who took part and thanks to the
Leofric Lions especially Kevin Birch for allowing us to be apart of the
event.”
Images: Cdt Cpl
Jordan Chapman and Cdt Callum Holland with the Leorfric Lion; 2. Cdt Callum
Holland, Cdt FS Brandon Wood, Coventry's Lord Mayor Brian Kelsey, Cdt Cpl
Jordan Chapman and Cdt FS John Ormsby with a member of the public
by: CI Roni Tillman Sqn MCO 2438
(Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn - W&B Wg
9 Aug 2010
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Cadets take to the water with a Dragon.
Faced with 17 much bigger adult teams and one other Air Cadet team from
Spalding Squadron, 2430 (Holbeach) Sqn took to the water today in Downham
Market in the Dragon Boat races. The boats were provided by Hovendon House
Cheshire Home and the cadets raised sponsorship in return.
 In
the first heat, Holbeach were narrowly piped in to second place by a local
team but with Spalding trailing behind by 6 seconds, they were off to a
great start. Despite the head winds again for the second heat, Holbeach
posted a faster time but finished third.
Progression into the Semi-Finals
came down to the 3rd and final heat of the day and despite posting the 6th
fastest time of the heat of 62.88 seconds and a full 11 seconds ahead of
Spalding again, they finished a gallant 13th place from the 18 teams taking
part.
The cadets had a fantastic day and despite not winning the competition, they
were more than happy to have rowed away to three heat wins over their rival
cadet team from Spalding and receiving gallant praise from the eventual race
winners, local crew, Tulip Vikings 2. The winner on the day overall was
Hovendon House and its residents with the sponsorship the cadets from both
squadrons have raised for this worthwhile organisation.
Image: Heat 3 and Holbeach in Boat 4 fights for the lead
by: Flt Lt Andrew Mason RAF VR(T) OC 2430 (Holbeach) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg
9 Aug 2010
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RAF Brize Norton, Work Experience
Special Report by Cdt Sgt Grant Robey 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn
My name is Grant Robey and I’ve
just returned from a week long Work Experience placement with the RAF and I
had such a good time I thought I would write this article to let you all
know how good it was.
 I
arrived at RAF Brize Norton Wednesday afternoon only 3 hours after passing
my driving test and it was straight into the Flight Operations offices, I
was briefed on who is who and what I would be doing on my work experience
placement.
I already knew the person who would be looking after me as an old friend, he
had organised the work experience for me. After the brief there was not a
lot of time left until the end of the day so I was shown what goes into a
flight bag, these where all of the international differences, maps, codes
and anything that the pilot may need whist on a flight. I was shown how to
pack a bag from Brize Norton to Akrotiri, being told that I would be packing
some tomorrow I paid close attention.
Up at 6am the next day for breakfast, I firstly met the sergeant of flight
ops and we had a good discussion about current affairs, my career and the
Royal Air Force. He was a very down to earth person and hearing about his
career so far was very interesting. It did shock me that the working
environment was quite laid back and things where still getting done – I come
to the conclusion that it was one of the many benefits of having a career
with the RAF as your colleagues are like minded ambitious people who want to
get the job done so there is room for a chilled out working environment.
Whist at Brize Norton the station was getting ready for its annual families
day where RAF personnel can bring their children and family along to see
what they do on a day to day basis, they also had a range of fly pasts and
planes on display but sadly I would miss this as it was the day after I
would leave the station.
After the discussion with the sergeant I started to pack another flight bag,
it was from Brize Norton to a base in the USA, being such a long flight this
required 4 bags. After having the bags I had made checked I was shown the
station operations room, where I met 2 SAC and 1 LAC and they shown me how
to make a jet plan which is basically a AA route planner for the sky, I
learnt that the sky is full of our equivalent of motorways and A and B
roads. Also that for each different international air space that we enter
this department has to gain permission to enter and even then we have
restrictions about what height we fly at, and where to enter and where to
exit so it never was just a straight line from A to B as some countries had
to be avoided.
Just next to this section was ASCOT, which is unique to Brize Norton, it is
a computer system that is linked to 2 screens and it follows flights that
are currently happening, it shows their current position and also has direct
contact with the pilot of the plane. I had been watching a plane out to
Afghanistan for a few moments as it landed; when it landed I was soon told
it was Prime Minister David Cameron on that flight and that’s why it was
being followed.
After this I was taken back to flight ops by a pilot where I had been given
the print out of the jet plan, and a set of maps that covers the journey. I
was then given 4 high lighters, I was told to use one colour for the route
to take, one colour for any junction, one colour for any beacons and the
final colour was for emergency runways that the plane could land on. This is
all in aid to make sure the flight goes smoothly, and the pilot does not
have to spend time looking for the things such as where he is or the nearest
beacons.
I was taught about what the different beacons look like and what different
signals they set of and what types of aircraft can pick the signal up. This
pilot had said that he was very impressed at what I had done and he invited
me back for the next month to spend some time with another pilot and a
weapon systems operator which is the trade I am currently on the waiting
list for, sadly it required my college to sign a form of indemnity and they
were unwilling to sign it so this placement was unable to be given to me. It
had soon reached 1730 and it was the end of the second day.
The final day had approached fast and today was the day that I had been
given a Tri-Star flight simulator space, after breakfast it was straight to
the sim, firstly I was told what was what in the cockpit and I strapped
myself into the pilots’ chair. My first task was to land it from straight
and level which was pretty easy after completing my gliding scholarship, but
they soon upped what I had to do and I was taking off and landing on
airstrip that if I overshot I’d end up crashing over the end of a cliff. All
of the hydraulics made it feel just as if you where flying for real and it
did make me sweat trying to land this plane. After this I was lucky enough
to be shown around a real one, I was shocked at how much the sim looked like
the real one. I was shown all around the plane and shown how all of the up
to date equipment works and helps the pilot.
During the sort stop at Brize Norton the working environment and atmosphere
of the camp has given me the reassurance that a career with the Royal Air
Force is for me and I look forward to starting.
by: Cdt Sgt Grant Robey 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn - W&B Wg
6 Aug 2010
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Putting The 'Flight' Into Flight Sergeant!
1220 (March) Sqn know the true meaning of the word 'flight' with both of
their Flight Sergeants gaining wings in their respective aircraft and on the
same day!
 Instructor
Cdt FS Toni Arnold competed her final solo flights to be awarded her
Advanced Glider Training wings whilst Instructor Cdt FS Alexa Ferguson flew
solo in a powered aircraft to gain her Air Cadet Pilot wings. Neither was
aware what the other had done until later that day.
Alexa was one of the first cadets from 1220 Squadron to be awarded a place
on the Air Cadet Pilot Scheme for some 20 years. She spent two weeks at
Tayside Aviation based at Dundee Airport learning to fly the Grob Heron
light aircraft.
The first week of the course was
severely disrupted by bad weather but things picked up in week two and Alexa
was able to complete the course and on the final day took off to achieve her
solo flight and be awarded the Air Cadet Pilot wings.
Alexa said: “It was a fantastic experience. The course has encouraged me
to take my aviation interest to another level and I’m looking forward to
hopefully funding my private pilot’s licence in the future.”
 Meanwhile
some 400 miles south Toni was completing her final three required solo
flights to pass the Advanced Glider Training and was awarded her Gold glider
pilot wings. Toni is the first cadet on the squadron to be awarded the gold
wings.
Weather conditions at the Volunteer Gliding Squadron, Watton had not been
great with cross winds and rain preventing some flying but by chance on the
Saturday conditions improved and all three flights were completed.
Toni, who is also a volunteer staff cadet at VGS Watton, said: “It is
absolutely fantastic to be soaring with the birds. I really enjoy gliding
and completion of my gold wings has been a long held ambition. I look
forward to continuing my training as well as putting something back into the
ATC by helping others achieve their wings.”
Images: 1. Alexa seated in the Grob Heron; 2. Toni with the
Grob Viking.
by: Fg Off Colin Arnold RAF VR(T)
Sqn MCO 1220 (March) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg
6 Aug 2010
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Up Up And Away!
Cadets from 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn have continued their commitment to local
good causes by supporting the Royston Rotary Clubs annual kite festival held
on Therfield Heath on the outskirts of Royston.
 Whilst
estimated crowd of 5000 saw six hours of entertainment in the arena by a
wide variety of kite fliers, cadets undertook a variety of tasks such as
setting up the display areas, litter picking though out the day, assisting
to dismantle the event stalls, as well as filling in numerous rabbit holes
on the Heath! The cadets were keen to support the event which raises money
for local charities, of which Bassingbourn Squadron is one.
President of Royston Rotary Club, Jonathan Berks, said: "It was a
marvellous day, as usual the people of Royston, and from further afield,
turned out in large numbers to enjoy a great family day out and enabled us
to raise money for worthy causes."
Sgt Gemma Cox (ATC), Bassingbourn Squadron's Media and Communications
Officer added: "The kite festival is an annual event in the Squadron
calendar, the bond between ourselves and Royston Rotary Club is very strong
and we look forward to working close with them in the near future."
by: Sgt Gemma Cox (ATC) Sqn MCO 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg
4 Aug 2010
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Freemasons’ Presentation
Recently 866 (Immingham) Sqn approached the Cleethorpes branch of the
Freemasons to ask for assistance in purchasing extra adventure training and
camping equipment.
 When
they were made aware of the various activities enjoyed by the cadets and the
help that they gave to the community the Freemasons were only too pleased to
make a donation.
The presentation of a cheque for a considerable amount towards the equipment
was made at the Squadron Headquarters recently.
The Worshipful Brother Andy Downes – the Worshipful Master of The Haven
Lodge No 1732 of Mark Masters Masons at Cleethorpes – accompanied by the
Secretary of the Lodge Worshipful Brother David Maultby, handed over the
cheque to the Chair of the Squadron Civilian Committee Joyce Storer.
Also present were the Squadron President, Air Commodore Neil Gammon, the
Squadron Commander Flt Lt Simon Dunn and Committee member Mrs Tracey
Pursglove – who had made the first approach to the Freemasons
Flt Lt Simon Dunn said: “The money will be spent directly on adventure
training equipment. The squadron is very active in the Duke of Edinburgh’s
Award Scheme and many weekends are spent on either training or qualifying
expeditions and my intention is to use the money to purchase GPS locators.
These will allow us to be aware of their exact position at any time on these
ventures and greatly increase the safety of the cadets while on the
unaccompanied qualifying expeditions at all levels of the Award Scheme.
Funds are becoming increasingly hard to raise and we are therefore immensely
grateful for donations such as this.”
After the presentation the Freemasons were taken for a visit around the
squadron to see the cadets at work on projects and other activities.
Image: The
Worshipful Brother Andy Downes presents the cheque to Mrs Joyce Storer. (L
to R) Mrs Tracey Pursglove, Air Commodore Neil Gammon, Mrs Joyce Storer,
Worshipful Brother Andy Downes, Flt Lt Simon Dunn and Worshipful Brother
David Maultby
by: Wg Cdr Tony Lark RAF VR(T) (Rtd) Sqn MCO 866 (Immingham) Sqn - Trent Wg
4 Aug 2010
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Local Fire Service Put Cadets Through
Their Paces
This week, White Watch at Canley Fire Station kindly opened their doors to
cadets from 163 (Coventry Phoenix) Sqn to give them taste of a day in the
life of a fire fighter. This is part of a continued effort at the Sqn to get
the cadets involved in local services and projects.
 On
arriving at the station, the cadets were warmly welcomed, and given a tour
of the station. They were shown how the fire fighters receive alerts of
incidents, and experienced the alert that goes out to call them into action.
They were told all about the shift patterns, how the Watch system worked and
what they did in their down time – it seems much to the disappointment of
the staff, gone are the days of beds and pool tables! They instead now
undertake an extensive training programme and are heavily involved in
promoting fire safety in communities.
They were also told about the welfare vehicle, which contains facilities to
carry food, make hot drinks and chairs and tables to extend the time for
which each Watch can be in attendance at an incident. The cadets then got
the moment they were waiting for – they were taken outside to have a look
round an active Fire Engine.
Once outside, one of the members of the Watch, Gemma, showed the cadets all
of the equipment kept on the engine, and explained how it was used,
including different hoses, cutting tools and ladders. They were then given a
demonstration of how the breathing apparatus works, as they Fire Fighters
explained what happens on arrival at the incident, the number of them in
attendance at different types of incidents and the roles each one plays.
 Following
this, a second member of the watch, Phil, took the cadets over to a
demonstration area with a number of cars, and showed them how they would go
about cutting the roof off a car in a Road Traffic Collision, and how the
hydraulic jack worked to lift a vehicle to safely remove casualties from
beneath it. The cadets were very impressed by this display, and it may have
tempted a few into thoughts of a potential career!
Next, it was time for the cadets to get hands on, and Cdt Coles did an
excellent demonstration of how to unroll a hose, in the opinion of the rest
of White Watch outdoing the attempt of Phil, who had demonstrated the
technique. Each cadet then was given an opportunity to try their hand at
controlling the hose while it was running, with some impressive aerial water
displays being performed in the process! The cadets were quite surprised
with the strength it required to control the hose, and they were quite in
awe of the regular Fire Fighters doing this all of the time.
As the evening drew to a close, the cadets were able to climb on board the
Fire Engine, and many enjoyed operating the sirens on the engine,
particularly when the Sqn staff were standing in front of it! They got to
climb into the back seats and were told the preparation process on the way
to an incident for the staff in those roles.
By now it was time for the cadets to say their goodbyes and give their
thanks to White Watch and head back to the Sqn. The evening was highly
enjoyable and informative for all, and gave the cadets a fantastic insight
to the work done by the Fire Service, and great respect for the work the
Fire Service do.
by: Katie Legge 163 (Coventry Phoenix) Sqn - W&B Wg
3 Aug 2010
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March Shoots With the Best at Bisley
 Five
cadets from 1220 (March) Sqn recently attended the Inter Services Cadet
Rifle Meet. The cadets were in competition against others from the Army
Cadet Force, the Sea Cadets and other Air Cadets from the UK along with
international competition from Canadian and Australian Cadets.
This is the first time that March cadets have attended the international
event held every year at the National Shooting Centre near Bisley in Surrey.
The cadets, Scott Goodall, Luke Goodall, Simon Foster, Daniel Lowe and their
Scorer, Sophie Radley attended the three day event in July. Shooting over a
long range at distances between 300 and 600 yards the cadets learnt much
from the experience.
Coached by Sgt Brian Goodall (ATC), the cadets were representing the
Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing for this years event and looking
forward to taking part in more event in the future.
Image: The Beds and Cambs Wing Team provided by 1220 (March)
Sqn
by: Flt Lt Kirsty Burnham RAF VR(T) OC 1220 (March) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg
3 Aug 2010
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Ten Years Of Hard Work Rewarded
1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Sqn Cadets and volunteer helpers have had
their ten years of support to the Elvaston Steam Rally rewarded with the
presentation of a trophy for their 'Outstanding Contribution' to the annual
event and a cheque for £2,500.
 It
was a complete surprise to the Squadron’s Officer Commanding, Flt Lt Allan
Munns, to be called into the main arena on the Sunday of the Rally to be
presented with the magnificent mounted Fireman’s Axe, an award presented
annually to the person or organisation who are considered to have made the
most outstanding contribution to the event.
The Steam Rally contributes sums of money to various local charities and the
squadron is one of the charities that is supported. This year the Rally
organisers donated £2,500 to the squadron’s funds.
The cadets and volunteer adults
work hard for the money taking and accounting for the ticket sales and
marshalling the event. Senior cadets assist with the setting up of the rally
spending most of the week on the site.
Allan Munns later said: “The cadets and helpers have a tough weekend at
Elvaston and to have all that hard work recognised is fantastic. The cheque
will enable the squadron to continue with giving Stapleford teenagers a
taste of adventure as well as equipping the squadron with essential training
aids.
"The squadron has already been invited back again next year and the cadets
are looking forward to it."
Image: Cadets from
the squadron with the trophy for Outstanding Contribution to the annual
event.
by Flt Lt Allan Munns RAF VR(T) OC 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Sqn - South
& East Midlands Wg
2 Aug 2010
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