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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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“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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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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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 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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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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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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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!).Read more...
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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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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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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.Read more...
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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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