The Laser December 2013

LaSER THE

The Journal of the Air Cadets in London and the South East

Special Edition for

December 2013

Welcome to

LaSER THE

I am delighted to welcome you to our final edition of The Laser for 2013. What a wonderful, exciting and active year it has been for Air Cadets based in the London & South East Region!

Despite only two months passing since the last edition of The Laser, we’ve another action packed magazine for you! LaSER Air Cadets have been out in force to support the Royal British Legion raise funds for the Poppy Appeal. The poppy is synonymous with remembrance and the Poppy appeal is the Legion’s biggest fundraising campaign, with money raised going to support their welfare work for the Armed Forces Community. Air Cadets and Volunteers alike see the appeal and Remembrance Sunday as two extremely important events in their busy calendars and ensure they are “out in force” to support both.

We are dedicating quite a large proportion of the magazine to the heroes of the Air Cadet Organisation: the Volunteers.

Our Volunteers are the lifeblood of our organisation. Without them, we could not offer all the wonderful experiences to the Air Cadets in our charge. Simply, there would be no Air Cadet Organisation without the thousands of volunteers who give their time, dedication, commitment and enthusiasm to the Air Cadets.

We have nearly 2,000 volunteers in LaSER but it’s not enough! We are looking for dedicated volunteers to join us on the journey of a lifetime. Could you be the next volunteer?

We’ll be back in 2014 with the next edition of The Laser, so please remember to send your stories to media.laser@aircadets.org and if you’ve any feedback, comments or suggestions please do get in touch. We’d love to hear from you! ■ Issue 9 - December 2013 Managing Editor: Sqn Ldr Caroline Gourri RAFVR(T) E: media.laser@aircadets.org Editor and Design: FS James Parker ATC E: media.surrey@aircadets.org London & SE Region Media Team Essex: Flt Lt E Chinnery RAFVR(T) Kent: Sqn Ldr M Cremin RAFVR(T) London: Sqn Ldr P Gourri RAFVR(T) Middlesex: Flt Lt N Cumming RAFVR(T) Surrey: Sqn Ldr H Gould RAFVR(T) Sussex: Flt Lt P Welsh RAFVR(T)

Air Cadets Regional Headquarters London and South East Region RAF Northolt Ruislip Middlesex HA4 6NG T. 020 8833 8278 F 020 8833 8391 W: www.laseratc.org

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Region Field Day

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The ‘LaSER’ is not an official publication; unless specifically stated otherwise, all views expressed in the ‘LaSER’ are those of the authors alone and might not reflect official MOD, RAF or ACO policy.

© UK MOD Crown Copyright, 2013 No part of ‘The LaSER’ may be ‘The LaSER’ is the Journal of London and reproduced in part or full without South East Region Air Training Corps and the written permission of the Editor. is published quarterly by kind permission Photographs are Crown Copyright of the Regional Commandant. unless credited otherwise.

Prtinting By:

In this Issue

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The TheLaser LaserDecember December2013 2013

A word from the

Commandant

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Remembrance

A model of a Grob Tutor, entered into this years Region Aeromodelling Competition

As we come to year end we look back at another successful year for LaSER. Air Experience Flying has suffered in the last year but rectifications are in hand to ensure safe and effective flying.

Our cadets and staff enjoyed a number of different activities that stretched them physically and mentally. As we chase the ideal in our motto “Venture Adventure” we need to have exciting activities that are safely executed.

We are now almost back to full manning in our Wing Headquarters and can again provide the administrative support that our volunteers and cadets deserve.

The Annual Formal Inspection that coincided with Region Field Day was a resounding success for team LaSER and this issue has a number of photographs capturing the event.

We still seek, within the Region, well motivated adult volunteers to help run our squadrons, supervise activities and develop our young people.

As we approach the Season of Goodwill and the Christmas Celebration we should consider how fortunate we are in being part of a great organisation which crosses ethnic and religious boundaries in order to achieve our common aim of being the best we can be in the Air Cadet Organisation.

I look forward to meeting many of you in the New Year as we move forward with our activities. ■

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Meet the new Region W

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Group Captain L Hakin OBE Regional Commandant London & South East Region

don & SE Region follow us on etslaser www.laseratc.org

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Region Field Day

Region Field Day Each year the top cadets from the six Wings in London & South East Region compete furiously to be crowned Region Champions at the annual Field Day. This year there was an extra reason to push for the win, with the visit of Commandant Air Cadets, Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty.

The field day combines a number of key inter-wing competitions all held on a single day at RAF Northolt. The focus of the competitions is largely the “blue” activities related to aircraft and ceremonial.

Two of the most hotly contested events are the foot and banner drill competitions.

These events have been dominated by Surrey Wing over the last few years, but this year they did not get it all their own way. While 261 (Guildford) Squadron took the banner drill competition, the foot drill competition went to London wing with 33F (Battersea) Squadron (pictured below), newcomers to this level of the drill competition, taking the crown. Both teams have now gone on to represent the Region

at the National Drill Competition at RAF Halton.

Keeping on the ceremonial theme, the band competitions are always a favourite due to the high standard of musical ability of the cadets. This was a real mixed bag with every Wing winning at least one of the categories: Full Band - Kent; Fanfare - London; Percussion - Surrey; Solo Bugler - Surrey; Ensemble - Sussex; Drum Major - Essex; Solo Drummer - London; and Turnout - Middlesex. But there could only be one winner... urm well two, as the overall music competition was shared by Kent and London Wings.

Keeping the “air” in the air cadets is the aircraft recognition competition.

Kent Wing’s cadets took the under 16’s team and individual competition, with Middlesex Wing doing the same of the open competition, and the overall.

Keeping on the air theme was the aeromodelling competition. Again there were many impressive models, including a Grob Tutor which doesn’t come as an Airfix

kit! Essex Wing took the glory here, with London Wing coming in second.

A competition close to the heart of The Laser’s editorial team is the photographic competition. WIth over 200 entries, all of a high standard the judging was always going to be difficult. The Corps Photographer (South) Squadron Leader Philip Jones had this difficult job, finally picking Cadet Sohl’s (1083 Uxbridge Squadron) photo “Model Building” for the Cadet ACO and its people category.

Cadet Corporal Griffiths of 1408 (Dorking) Squadron took the cadet aviation category with a fantastic shot of the Red Arrows.

The adult competition was of equally high quality with Civilian Instructor Brown of 94 (Feltham) Squadron taking the ACO and its people category with her photo “All blue”. The Aviation category went to Flt Lt Gridley of 2236 (Stanmore) Squadron with “Old and New” a shot of the unique pairing of a Spitfire and F22 Raptor jet.

One competition, which highlights a key lifeskill that many of our cadets are

L to R: 33F Squadron Drill team; The Region Pipe Band on parade; Sgt Austen debriefs 1015 Squadron’s drill team after their display.

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The Laser December 2013

Region Field Day Cadet Photographic Competition Winners LEFT: Winner of the ACO & Its People Category Cdt Stohl - 1083 (Uxbridge) Sqn, Middlesex Wing with “Model Building” RIGHT: Winner of the Aviation Category, Cdt Cpl Griffiths - 1408 (Dorking) Sqn, Surrey Wing with “Reds”

Adult Photographic Competition Winners LEFT: Winner of the ACO & Its People Category CI K Brown - 94 (Feltham) Sqn, Middlesex Wing with “All Blue” RIGHT: Winner of the Aviation Category, Flt Lt Gridley - 2236 (Stanmore) Sqn, Middlesex Wing with “Old and New” BELOW: Air Cdre McCafferty reviews the models in the aeromodelling competition. trained in, is the First Aid Competition.

With “actors” playing casualties the teams of cadets had to assess the injuries and take the correct course of action in a quick and efficient manner to score maximum points. The competitors had not seen the scenario before so, as with real life, there was no time to prepare. This year’s masters of the bandage and sling were Surrey Wing with two teams from 135 (Reigate and Redhill) Squadron.

Finishing up the competitions was the shooting. Using the Dismounted Close Combat Trainer, an electronic range using projected targets much like an elaborate video game, two teams from each wing shot as accurately as they could. After all the marks were added up London Wing came out winners.

But the day was not only about competitions, it was also a chance for the Region to show Commandant Air Cadets how good it is as she completed our Annual Formal Inspection. She took time to talk to many of the cadets competing in the activities, and the adult volunteers who make the activities possible. Several volunteers were singled out for special

recognition. Sergeant Austen of the RAF Regiment has been assisting with the Region drill competition for several years, using his knowledge to assess the cadets and pass on a few good tips. In recognition of his hard work he was presented with a Regional Commandants Certificate of Merit. Warrant Officer Gently ATC of Herts and Bucks WIng was also presented a certificate of merit for assisting with the drill competitions.

Outgoing Region Warrant Officer Steve Mansfield was also rewarded on his last Field Day with a clasp to his Cadet Forces Medal. The clasp, awarded for additional six years uniformed cadets service, was Mr Mansfield’s fourth, equating to 36 years of adult service in the cadet forces. New Sussex Wing Commander Kevin Tucker was also presented with a clasp by the Air Commodore.

Another successful field day finished with a formal parade, with music provided by the Region Pipe band for the first time, where Air Commodore McCafferty announced LaSER had passed its annual inspection. A great end to a great day. ■

L to R: 305 Squadron Ensemble; Cadets applaud one of the awards on parade ; Shooting on the DCCT www.laseratc.org

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Remembrance

Remembrance

Every November Air Cadets from across the Region take part in the national acts of remembrance. Hitting the streets collecting for the poppy appeal and marching on parades. The LaSER takes a closer look.

305 Help to Launch the Poppy Appeal in Kent

1846 Bhangra dancers in Covent Garden

The Kent Poppy Appeal official launch took place at County Hall on 25th October. Mayors, councillors and staff from Kent barracks were treated to songs by the Shorncliffe Military Wives Choir and music by the band of 305 (Ashford) Squadron.

The event started with the band performing outside County Hall before processing in side with the Chairman of Kent County Council, Mr Eric Hotson, for the launch ceremony.

During the ceremony some of the cadets presented poppies to veterans, serving personnel, and their families. ■

The RAF took over Covent Garden on London Poppy Day as part of the effort to try and raise £1 million in 12 hours for the RBL poppy appeal.

From noon there was a rolling concert/ entertainment in the piazza in Covent Garden featuring a number of RAF "acts" and others including Central Band, Queen's Colour Squadron, Military Wives Choir, Jonathan and Charlotte, million selling opera singer Laura Wright, and the Bhangra Dancers from 1846 (Southall) Squadron Air Cadets. The show was compared by well known television and radio personality Howard Leader! ■

Surrey Cadet Shines at Festival of Remembrance Cadet Flight Sergeant Joe Cottrell of 261 (Guildford) Squadron was chosen to carry the Air Training Corps Banner at the Festival of Remembrance after competing in the Region banner competition. Here is his story.

We were told that selection of the Banner Bearer would be made during the day. It was a close competition but it was eventually confirmed that our squadron had come first but it wasn’t until the following day that I received an email confirming I had been chosen. I was shocked but excited.

There was a practice day on Friday 8 November with a chance to meet

the banner bearer’s from the other youth organisations and to see the central band of the RAF and the Marine Corps bands.

On Saturday 9 November I arrived at the Royal Albert Hall early for a full dress rehearsal before the event started.

Uniforms were immaculate and shoes polished so we all looked smart. Although I was nervous, talking to others taking part in the festival helped to put me at ease. It was fascinating hearing some of the stories from the veterans attending.

The first performance was after lunch.

The banners were marched across the arena at the very beginning which meant we were able to relax and enjoy the rest of

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the event. Watching the other displays and hearing the stories of the veterans and service personnel was very moving.

The best part was when I got to carry the Air Cadet Banner for the evening performance in front of the Royal family including the Queen. Despite the nerves the performance went well and I felt extremely proud as I walked down the stairs into the arena. It was the proudest moment of my time in the Air Cadets and one I will never forget. ■ The Laser December 2013

Remembrance

Cdt Cpl Kallum Cooper of 225 (Brighton No. 1) Squadron

“It’s important for us to remember those who gave their lives.”

Cdt Cpl Jess Kistnasamy of 225 (Brighton No. 1) Squadron

“We should never forget that these people paid the ultimate price for our freedom.”

Across the region cadets took part in parades and wreath laying ceremonies in their local community. Here are images of some of those acts of remembrance.

www.laseratc.org

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Spotlight on 276 Sqn This time our spotlight moves east into Essex Wing, where The LaSER will highlight the achievements of 276 (Chelmsford) Squadron. Lets see what they have been doing.

276 Chelmsford Squadron currently holds the Willis Trophy for the best Squadron in Essex Wing. An accolade which recognizes the Squadron’s zest for diversity and engagement, clearly exemplified through the myriad of activities and courses attended by its Cadets. The steady growth and improvement of the Squadron over the previous three years also lead to the Wing putting it forward for the Marshall Trophy for most improved Squadron in the Air Cadets.

MANY MINDS ONE HEART In line with its motto “Many Minds, One Heart”, the cadets and staff decided that the “heart” of their Squadron would be made up of cadets that had experienced the full spectrum of opportunities offered by the Air Cadet Organisation (ACO). An objective made more tangible by Sergeant Sue Hurkardes, who suggested the Squadron focus on using the aims of the ACO as its framework. Here we will explore how the Squadron has used the Aims of the Air Training Corps to hold the title of Best Squadron in Essex Wing.

TO PROMOTE AND ENCOURAGE A PRACTICAL INTEREST IN AVIATION AND THE ROYAL AIR FORCE A dynamic team of Civilian Instructors (CIs) have ensured that the cadets remain engaged and excited by aviation; taking them on frequent visits to the hangars at Southend Airport, running a hugely successful Model Making Project and

Photo: Shooting at Chelmsford TA Centre indoor Range with Sgt Sue Hurkardes issuing ammunition dismantling engines as part of their Propulsion Lectures. With 13 cadets achieving their BTECs in Aviation Studies, a further two Cadets achieving their Flying and Gliding Scholarship and two lucky cadets attending the Fun and Sun Airshow in Florida; 276 have successfully fulfilled this aim. With Pilot Officer Craig Lancaster also dual located on a VGS and future trips to airfields and aeronautical engineering companies booked, it is hoped that an even keener enthusiasm for aviation will develop among the cadets.

TO PROVIDE TRAINING USEFUL IN BOTH THE SERVICES AND CIVILIAN LIFE

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The Squadron decided to revolutionise its training programme to achieve this aim; tasking CI Andrea Beeney, the Squadron’s Training Officer, to draw on her experience within the Army Cadet Force. CI Beeney decided that all training, not just academic, should be done within “cadres” as opposed to within flights. This kept all of the cadets aiming for each classification together for academic training, sports sessions, drill and leadership. This enabled the Squadrons 11 Instructor cadets to plan relevant training for their cadre, for example Cadet Sergeant Bridget Mills and Cadet Corporal Dominic Olivier, looking after those aiming for their Master Cadets Classification, decided that The Laser December 2013

Spotlight on 276 (Chelmsford) Squadron

Photo: Cadets Green and Chapman hard at work during Model Making project night sports should be about coaching and stretching, Drill should be Banner drill training and Leadership should be about setting aims and tasks for Command Tasks.

All of this is supported by the great foundations laid by Cadet Sergeant Christopher Jelley, Cadet Sergeant Claire White and Cadet Corporal Chloe Biles who provide the training for Junior cadets. This “recruit training programme”, its visual aids, pace, design and implementation all managed by CI Glen Andrews. CI Andrews drew on his experience in the RAF Reserves and knowledge enabling over 40 new “First Class” cadets to complete training in the previous two intakes.

Recently Cadet Corporal Peter Sunnuck and Cadet Stuart Hayward also completed their Radio UHF/VHF License through the ATC, Cadet Corporal Sunnuck commented, “On the course there were many ways in which class participation and learning was enforced. I came back to the squadron after the course with many ideas on how to teach radio and make it fun for everyone and appeal to cadets. For example, in the radio project to practice radio procedures we have completed operation typhoon, operation icebreaker and performed many command tasks before those within the project made up their own exercises. The cadets within the www.laseratc.org

radio project have had fun and this has always had a high priority with me. I think this course has definitely enabled me and Hayward to achieve this”. The project they have launched within the Squadron, meets twice a month on Project nights and are helping the cadets improve their knowledge and enthusiasm for radio use. This has been very useful during the summer at the 14 different community activities, totaling 165 cadet days of community activities!

The Squadron continues to challenge for the various sporting competitions and have also had two Regional Blues and 23 Wing Blues awarded over the last 12 months.

Further to this cadets have been encouraged to attend numerous courses

by CI Yasmin Hurkardes, the Squadrons Camps, Courses and CVQO officer, and have been supported in achieving numerous other awards in various disciplines; two Adult & 27 Youth first aid awards, 29 bronze, plus 14 Silver Duke of Edinburgh awards, three two-star kayak and nine one-star Kayak awards from the BCU. CI Colin Brown who coordinates the shooting programme aims to have all cadets shoot at least once during the year whilst improving their marksmanship skills, over the last month the Squadrons

cadet have achieved 19 Corps, 14 Region, 12 Wing and one Squadron Marksman awards.

TO FOSTER A SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE AND TO DEVELOP THE QUALITIES OF LEADERSHIP AND GOOD CITIZENSHIP; Flying Officer Jules Davies arrived back at the Squadron after a three year “tour” of Wing Staff Duties and decided to promote good citizenship through enforcing the ACO values abbreviated to RISE (Respect, Integrity, Service and Excellence), reviewing the NCOs leadership skills and discussing with them ways to improve the sense of pride on the Squadron. She has helped shape new ideas formed from her time moving around other successful Squadrons on the Wing.

Cadet Warrant Officer Natasha Brooks and Cadet Sergeant Claire White joined the 1312 Southend Squadron lead team on the Nijmegen marches working alongside cadets from four other Essex Wing Squadrons and completed the march in good spirits, albeit with slightly more blisters than they would have liked, CWO Brooks said “Nijmegen was equally the toughest and most rewarding thing I have ever done. 100 miles feels as long as it sounds, but the key to crossing the finish line was great morale. Singing played a 9

Spotlight on 276 (Chelmsford) Squadron huge part in this – the partying Dutch locals up at 04:00 are the real thing that keeps you going. They genuinely love you for partaking and you really feel you’ve achieved something great for someone else as well as yourself”. As part of their training they also marched from Southend to Chelmsford for the Armed Forces day along with CI Beeney, Corporal Joshua Cormack-Butler and Corporal Scott Gaskin.

The walk involved cadets from all services, member of the Royal British Legion and other volunteers. Corporal Gaskin reported that “the Armed Forces walk this year was one of the most physically challenging things I’ve done in the Corps, but still there was a strong sense of determination to finish throughout the whole group”. The 22-mile walk gained the attention of the local Essex Chronicle newspaper and as a result of the exposure CI Beeney is now part of the organising committee for a variety of events next year for Armed Forces day. CI Andrews has also taken 24 cadets over the Obstacle course at Carver Barracks so far in 2013 and next year hopes to have places for every cadet on the Squadron.

Further to this the cadet NCOs have been encouraged to attend as many leadership

courses as they can; over the last 12 months the Squadron has had three cadets attend the Corps Leadership Course, two are on the current Junior Leaders course (JL), three are attending Essex Wings new “Cadet Command” course, 12 NCOs have attended the Wing Leadership Course, nine the Wing JNCO course, three the SNCO course and two attended the recent Cadet DI course. The Wing Courses, run by Flt Lt Nick Weston, have provided great development of the NCO team and as a result it is expected that more ILM qualifications will follow.

The cadet NCOs bring back new skills and best practice from other Squadrons around the Wing. The JL course, however takes things to the next level. Comprising of nine weekends, JL is a national organisation supported by the RAF, the RAF Regiment and carries the Institute of Leadership Management (ILM) and Heart Start First Aid qualifications for its graduates. CWO

Brooks and Sergeant Bridget Mills, who are on the Junior Leaders course this year are the first 276 cadets to attend the Corps most demanding course. Sergeant Mills course confirms this; “It’s a very mentally and physically demanding course! But you learn Sooooooo much, it’s not just an attendance course, you have to be committed and put in a lot of your own time outside of cadets as well, not least on your own fitness levels. You do get to meet a lot of new people and every weekend is different with new challenges and high expectations”.

What next for 276 Like every Squadron we aim to get better year on year, take stock of our strengths maintaining them and work on the areas that need more focus, where cadets have not had as much success. The Squadrons improvements and growth over the last few years is down to all the ideas and energy from all of the Cadets, staff and incredibly supportive Civilian Welfare Committee. Genuinely Many Minds One Heart. ■

Photo: CI Glen Andrews supervising cadets first time over the obstacle Course at Carver Barracks 10

The Laser December 2013

Cadets Shine on Wet Lord Mayor’s Show Over 80 Cadets from the Air Training Corps have come together to represent the Organisation at this prestigious event.

Cadets and Staff from London and Middlesex Wings were asked to represent the Air Cadet Organisation in the 686th Lord Mayor’s Show.

The parade, the largest unrehearsed one of its kind in the world, has it’s origins rooted in history. The Lord Mayor’s Show can be traced back to King John’s Charter of 1215 which decreed that ‘the Lord Mayor of London must present himself to the Sovereign on assuming office’.

The procession marked the appointment of the new Lord Mayor, Alderman Fiona Woolf, who is the second female Lord Mayor of London. The parade, which included some 7000 people and was over three miles long parades through the City of London.

The Cadets assembled on a grey London morning at the underground car park for Smithfields Market for the final uniform check and briefing. The Air Cadet contingent were led by the ACO’s Pipes and Drums Band which had drawn cadets from all over the United Kingdom.

For the band it was an early start, leaving their accommodation at 0600! However the Band ‘hit it off’ with the public, who lined the route in their thousands, and were met with cheers and applause as they led the Air Cadet Contingent past a variety of London landmarks. After a well earned ‘pit stop’ inside St Clement Danes, the ACO Contingent reformed outside Embankment Station, ready to march back through the City and show the world London’s new Lord Mayor.

There were also some 50 cadets marching

independently of the Air Cadet Contingent, supporting the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, the Royal Air Force Association and a handful of City Livery Companies that are affiliated to various ATC units in the capital.

ACO Contingent Warrant Officer and London Wing Warrant Officer WO (ATC) Adrian Mundy stated that “for any cadet that takes part in it, The Lord Mayor’s Show is definitely one of the highlights of a cadets career”. ACO Contingent Commander and Officer Commanding 9F (islington) Squadron ATC, Fligh Lieutenant Taz Bhachoo commented that “Although the weather was not brilliant, all cadets on parade thoroughly enjoyed themselves and relished the opportunity to mix with the other members of the parade be they members of the Armed Services or the various performers”.

The parade was true to the mentality that the ‘show must go on’ regardless. At the end of the parade the Staff and Cadets were soaked through but truly thankful that they got to be a part of such a historic event and many are hoping that this will be the first of many Lord Mayor’s Shows to come. ■

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www.laseratc.org

The Laser December 2013 11

Adult Volunteers

Spotlight on Our Adult Volunteers Adult Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Air Cadet Organisation. The time they give up and the expertise they share allows the cadets to have the time of their lives. Our volunteers come from all walks of life and with a whole range of experiences.

Many are ex-cadets, current or ex-military, but this is not a necessity for getting involved. Some volunteers have no prior cadet or military experience, they join simply to give something back and develop themselves, and many go on to excel in the organisation. All we need are dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers. Over the next couple of pages, The Laser looks at some of the adult staff in the Region and tells their experiences of life in the Air Cadets. If this sounds interesting and you want to help your local squadron visit www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets for more information.

Adult roles available in the Air Cadets

The Senior NCO

• • • • • • •

An adult volunteer from 1039 (Gillingham) Squadron has been presented with a gift from the squadron after qualifying as a Drill Instructor (DI).

Sergeant (ATC) Matthew Bairnsfather, a member of Gillingham Squadron for ten years, attended the week long DI course at RAFC Cranwell.

The 23 year-old SNCO joined Gillingham Squadron in August 2003 and rose to the rank of Cadet Warrant Officer before he reached his 20th birthday, when all cadets have to leave.

He stayed at Gillingham Squadron as a Civilian Instructor before being appointed as a Sergeant (ATC) in September 2012.

Upon completion of his Senior NonCommissioned Officer Staff Initial Course at the Adult Training Facility, based at RAFC Cranwell, Sgt Bairnsfather was recommended for the DIs’ Course.

Sgt Bairnsfather said “The course was really enjoyable, but hard work.

It covered all elements of instruction of foot drill and we were constantly assessed. Now that I have qualified as a DI, I can instruct drill on any squadron and carry a pace stick whilst teaching and on ceremonial duties.”

During the Squadron’s Annual Inspection, (See page 25) he was presented with a pace stick.

Sgt Bairnsfather has joined the Kent Wing training team, where he assists with cadet NCO and DI courses, and is responsible for drill and discipline at Gillingham Squadron.

Commissioned Officer in the RAF Volunteer Reserve Training Branch ATC Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Civilian Instructor Civilian Welfare Committee Member Chaplain Gliding Instructor Service Instructor (RAF, Army and Navy Regulars and Reservists)

The Officer Flight Lieutenant Clifford East RAFVR(T) As a young lad with an interest in aeroplanes I joined the Air Cadets at 2433 (Ramsgate) Squadron at RAF Manston in 1963. After serving in the RAF on leaving school and working for the Ministry of Defence I decided to re-join the Squadron I had left several years previously.

Initially spending some time as a Civilian Instructor, confirmed my aspirations to command my own Squadron at some time, so in 1988 I was commissioned into the RAFVR(T). Serving at the same Squadron I was a cadet at several years earlier did not worry me, it just confirmed my interest and provided an opportunity to put back some of my RAF training to good use for the sake of cadets.

Never wanting to leave my Squadron, I found that work and cadets would run in parallel with each other, being able to take up promotion within the Civil service (MOD) and move around the country a few times I was able to pursue my Cadet interest wherever I went, From Kent Wing Squadrons to Norfolk and Suffolk Squadrons, then back to Kent Wing Squadrons, ending up back at Ramsgate Squadron as its Commanding Officer.

I can think of nothing better than returning to your first Squadron with all the experience

gained at other squadrons and with a good team behind you creating a successful Squadron.

The opportunity to teach, train and associate with a range of young adults who would not normally mix or even talk outside of a Squadron always amazes me.

Working as a team they become part of a large family who look after eachother, train hard, and enjoy the activities that others share with themselves.

A continued training curve for me from those that are younger than me and are able to explain to me simple tasks to them, but are a nightmare and sometimes apprehensive in approach to me is of great value. This action also encourages the cadets to share their knowledge in subjects that I have no knowledge of – IT, mobile phones; current music trends are only some. With a comprehensive training programme devised by dedicated staff on the Squadron in return we are able to offer many opportunities in a variety of disciplines. To be part of a successful Squadron adds confidence, dedication, enthusiasm and loyalty to all those that pass through the Squadron in their relatively short time on a Squadron.

I hope to continue in in an active part of a Squadron where success is built on by enthusiastic Cadets and dedicated staff for many years to come.

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The Laser December 2013

Adult Volunteers

The Service Instructor (and Parent)

Behind the Scenes

A father and his two children are enjoying all the Air Cadets has to offer together, as they currently are all members of 114 (Ruislip and Northwood) Squadron in Middlesex Wing.

Sergeant Tim Kirby, an Air Cartographer in the Royal Air Force based at RAF Northolt and his daughter, Abbie joined 114 Squadron four years ago. Sgt Kirby recalls convincing Abbie to attend a recruitment evening being held at the Squadron to see what she thought of the Air Cadets; “I was never an Air Cadet but was aware of the excellent opportunities that the organisation could offer and how they develop young people, so I was keen to have her join to give her some direction and superb life skills.” said Sgt Kirby During the recruitment presentation Abbie could see what the Air Cadets had to offer and signed up there and then Jack, Sgt Kirby’s son, then joined the Squadron later in the same year as soon as he turned

A role often forgotten is the full time staff at Wing HQs. Each HQ is led by a full time reserve officer of Squadron Leader rank known as the Wing Executive Officer. Surrey and Kent Wings have just appointed new WExOs. Lets meet them.

Sqn Ldr Mel Reeve - Surrey WExO Sqn Ldr Reeve was born in Colchester and grew up in Essex where he was a member of 308 (Colchester) Sqn rising to the rank of Cadet Flight Sergeant. After School, Mel joined 106 (Orsett Hundred) Sqn as an RAFVR(T) Officer before joining the RAF as a Fighter Controller (FC). With many ground tours under his belt, he moved to RAF Waddington and the E-3 Sentry aircraft earning his FC Brevet.

Sqn Ldr André Leverton – Kent WExO André sent many years in the Royal Engineers, serving in the UK and Europe.

On leaving the Regulars André became a Civil Servant but also found time to serve 8 years with the TA. As a Civil Servant he has worked at RAF Brampton, RAF Innsworth, RAF Lyneham, the Falkland Islands and Cyprus followed by several short tours to the Middle East and Afghanistan.

13. Jack had seen all the fun Abbie had gotten up to and wanted to the same!

“I always had the intention of offering my services to an outside organisation and often thought of assisting at an Air Cadet Squadron. When I mentioned I was a serving SNCO in the RAF, the Squadron staff said I wasn’t allowed to leave until I agreed to help out……in fact it was the perfect opportunity for me to finally get involved.” said Sgt Kirby.

Sgt Kirby went on to say; “Both Abbie and Jack have met life-long friends and the Air Cadets has been the making of both of them achieving many things, my youngest daughter will be eligible to join in March next year so then there will be four of us then! “ We all get on very well at the squadron and I am able to offer advice and guidance whenever they need it. I do enjoy it when they stand to attention and call me Sgt as that’s the only time they have to listen to me and cannot disappear” said Sgt Kirby.

The Squadron Commanding Officer 2374 (Ditton) Squadron entered a new era in November as Flt Lt N Lewis took command.

Flt Lt Lewis joined 305 (Ashford) Squadron Air Training Corps in June 1990, as a Cadet. During her time as ...a cadet she played an active part in all aspects of cadet life, attending many activities.

Flt Lt Lewis attended many camps, and also attended the Sun ‘n’ Fun Airshow in Florida 3 times. In 1995 she attended a training camp at RAF Halton which culminated in performing at the Royal Tournament. As a keen sportswoman Flt Lt Lewis represented both Kent Wing and LaSER on a number of occasions and at Hockey, Netball and Athletics. She rose through the ranks becoming a Cadet Warrant Officer in 1994, and joining the Kent Wing NCO training team where she assisted with training NCO’s in Leadership and Drill. As a C.W.O she attended a basic glider training course and flew solo at RAF Manston. Her cadet www.laseratc.org

career culminated in her being named Kent Wing Cadet of the Year in 1997.

Flt Lt N Lewis moved to 312 (City of Canterbury) Squadron, where she was commissioned, before being posted to 500 (Headcorn) Squadron in 1999 and taking command in 2000. 500 Squadron was a small Squadron when Flt Lt Lewis took over and under her leadership the Squadron grew in the first year of her command and was back up to Squadron Strength with 38 cadets. Also her leadership of 500 saw them win the Kent Wing Drill competition for the first time in the Squadron’s history, they then won this competition for the next 3 years!

After a successful few years at 500 Squadron Flt Lt Lewis returned to 305 (Ashford) Squadron taking command and becoming the Squadron Band Officer, over the years the Squadron Band has become one of the best Cadet bands in Kent, winning the Kent Wing Band Competition 5 times! The band has also performed at some high profile events including the Battle of Britain Memorial Day at Capel– le–Ferne, The Dover Military Tattoo, and the launch of the Poppy Appeal in Kent.

She also introduced the music BTEC to the Squadron which cadets have gained some fantastic results in!

Since being commissioned in 1998 Flt Lt Lewis has staffed a number of camps and activities enabling more cadets to take advantage of these and gain new skills. For the last 9 years She has organised the Kent Wing contingent at the Military Odyssey Living History Weekend at Detling. Flt Lt Lewis is a keen road marcher and has taken teams of cadets to the RAF 2 Day March 8 times, and has also taken cadets to the Nijmegen Marches some 13 times.

After the sad death of Ashford Sea Cadet Jonathan Martin, Flt Lt Lewis and her husband, Capt. Lewis (Ashford SCC), worked to put in place an annual memorial event that cadets from all of the cadet forces around Kent could take part in. A number of ideas were discussed, but, it was decided to organise a march. After lots of planning the first ‘Jonny Martin Memorial March’ took place on the first anniversary of Jonathan’s death and has taken place every year since.

In July Flt Lt Lewis was appointed Kent Wing Band Officer and now has the challenge of progressing Music training and performances throughout Kent Wing.

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All Change on the Parade Square Amongst the whirlwind of activities that marked another region field day there was a rather more understated landmark event with Warrant Officer (WO) Steve Mansfield (ATC) formally handing over the mantle of Region Warrant Officer (RWO) to WO Chris Mundy (ATC), previously the Wing Warrant Officer for Middlesex Wing.

WO Mundy has been involved with the Air Cadets since he joined 86 (Heston & Isleworth) Squadron in February 1982; “It was a slight accident as I was looking to join the Army Cadets and had gone along to the Territorial Army(TA) Centre with my dad, at the time a RSM with the Grenadier Guards. Whilst at the TA Centre I saw 86 Squadron as well and I felt the Air Cadets did everything the Army Cadets did plus flying, what wasn’t there to like!”

With flying and gliding places at a premium, WO Mundy was more likely to be found on the

ABOVE: WO Mansfield (right) congratulates WO Mundy on his appointment

range or crawling through mud, sand or snow on the many exercises organised by the Squadron and wing; “I became very familiar with the local training areas and gave up my places to those that really wanted to get up in the air so only went flying in order to qualify for my staff cadet, a single flight in a chipmunk being one of the criteria in those days. I have yet to fly in a glider!”

Which makes it all the stranger that, the highlight of WO Mundy’s Cadet career was doing a parachute course with the famed Red Devils; “My first jump was a static line jump onto the sports fields at Aldershot, complete with rugby posts! It certainly concentrated the mind with all these obstructions around the drop zone but the chute was very manoeuvrable so I was able to walk away unscathed; fortunate as I was driver for the other cadets from my unit!”

Progressing through the ranks and enjoying camps to Germany and Gibraltar along the way, WO Mundy carried on into adult service with a stint as a Civilian Instructor after reaching the upper age limit, being appointed to Warrant Officer in 1993. “We didn’t have the Senior NCO structure back then which was a pity as entering the Sgts Mess as a ‘WO’ at the tender age of 24 is certainly interesting!

The current structure is one of the major strengths of the ACO as it allows for the experience levels to be there before you achieve WO status” Appointed to the Wing Warrant Officer position in 2004, WO Mundy has seen a huge change to the way Cadet Forces Adult Volunteers (CFAV) are trained; “The courses and qualifications available to CFAV has greatly increased, some due to policy changes but most due to the increase in opportunities. Being a lover of Drill, I welcomed the introduction of the Arms

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Drill Course and really enjoyed being able to put the training into practice with this year’s Trooping of the Regional Banner. I felt immensely proud watching the cadets successfully complete the troop, all down to the commitment by both cadets and staff to the event over several weekends”.

The highlight of WO Mundy’s Air Cadet career so far has been the Cadet 150 parade in front of HRH Prince Charles.

“Again, a huge commitment of time and practice culminated with a faultless display by the ACO in front of the huge crowd of tourists, family and friends. It’s not every day you get to march through the gates of Buckingham Palace and the garden party following the parade was a great way of thanking our families, including my wife Dawn, for allowing us to put in the time” Outside of the Air Cadets, Mr Mundy is a Geospatial Analyst working for the Defence Geographic Centre at Feltham, helping to provide mapping and imagery to support UK Defence. “Very useful when units are going on camp or exercise as, given enough warning, I can ensure we get all the latest maps and give the cadets the best chance of not getting lost!”

In his spare time, Mr Mundy can often be found at The Stoop in Twickenham “I’m a Wasp fan but my wife follows Harlequins so guess who wins the battle over which season tickets we get. Luckily we both support England!” His rugby playing is limited to touch rugby these days as “my body can’t take the abuse of the fullcontact game anymore; I’d be left broken on the 22! This way I even get to win the odd game or two.”

Mr Mundy is also partial to body boarding although his three children (Callum, David and Rebecca) are far better than him “mainly due to their greater buoyancy!”

WO Mundy’s initial aim since taking post is to organise a training weekend and conference within the next six months for all the Wing Warrant Officers and their deputies in order to unify them as a cohesive team to ensure drill, dress and disciplines standards are the same across the Region. ■ !!! STOP PRESS !!!

London Wing have been awarded the Sir Roger Austen Sword for most improvement in Duke of Edinburgh Awards - up 33% from last year.

The Laser December 2013

London’s Youth Need You In the past few years, London’s Air Cadets have travelled as far afield as Jordan, India, Cyprus and Tanzania on adventurous expeditions. They’ve flown, parachuted, formed guards of honour for members of the Royal Family, and raised thousands of pounds for different charities. They’ve celebrated tremendous achievements; they have won trophies in sports and marksmanship and completed more awards under the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme than any other Royal Air Force Air Cadet Wing in the United Kingdom.

But, in order to carry on this success, London’s Air Cadets urgently needs more staff. There are 73 units across the 32 boroughs of London, each of which has its own unique strengths, qualities, and local issues, but all of which help young people to achieve. Although many former cadets become members of staff on Squadrons, there are also many opportunities for adults aged 20 or over to get involved.

Getting involved as a member of staff can www.laseratc.org

be a life-changing experience, as you can use your skills and knowledge to help young people achieve things they never thought possible.

Whether you have a particular expertise in aviation, or just an interest in the Royal Air Force, by sharing your time and knowledge, you can make a real contribution to their development.

Although we are a military organisation in essence, much of our focus is on helping the cadets develop skills and attributes that will serve them well in civilian life, whether or not they choose to go into the Armed Forces. Developing their self-discipline, respect, confidence, teamwork and loyalty are as crucial as the academic and physical training they undertake.

As well as being an exciting new challenge, becoming an Air Cadet staff member provides lots of opportunities to gain qualifications.

Air Cadet staff members can work towards recognised qualifications at different levels, including level six qualifications such as the City and Guilds Graduateship in Leadership and 15

London’s Youth Need You management - the equivalent of an Honours Degree.

Those interested in the great outdoors can work towards nationally recognized qualifications such as a Level 3 Certificate in Basic Expedition Leadership, or the Walking Group Leader, and Mountain Leader awards for those more adventurous. This year, dozens of staff in London have achieved these qualifications, and can now use them in their civilian lives as well as within the Air Cadets. We help you by providing the skills you need to help Cadets.

Air Cadet Units A

Different ways you can get involved Civilian Instructors (CI) - Most staff will join the Air Cadet unit as a CI. As a CI, you will be able to attend squadron, build up your experience, and can undertake training courses.

Once they’ve built up some experience on a squadron, CIs can choose to go into a uniformed role, as an officer or senior non-commissioned officer (SNCO). Both of these involved attending courses at RAF Cranwell, and uniformed staff generally take on more formal roles on an Air Cadet squadron, and may eventually lead to you running your own squadron. Of course – many people find it most fulfilling to stay as a CI – and are welcome to do so. It can be a great way to share specialist skills or knowledge – such as aviation, adventurous activities or music, without taking on the responsibility of administering a squadron. Many volunteers work with the Air Cadets alongside busy day jobs, or looking after families – so do get in touch and find out more about getting involved!

Service Helpers - Those serving in any of the armed forces are warmly invited to get involved with local squadrons – even if you’re only able to commit to occasional evening or weekend activities. To find out more, contact London Wing by emailing media.london@aircadets.org Chaplains - If you are a minister or priest of any religion, you can apply to become a chaplain on an Air Cadet squadron. Your role on the squadron is to offer guidance and leadership to cadets and members of staff, on moral and spiritual matters. You won’t wear uniform, but will be recognized by a Chaplain’s badge worn on your lapel. As a minimum, a Chaplain would be expected to visit the squadron once a month, for a regular Chaplain’s hour. You may also wish to invite the squadron to parade at your place of worship on certain occasions, such as the Festival of Remembrance. The Air Training Corps has a Chaplain’s Branch, which will fully support your activities as an ATC Chaplain.

To get involved, please contact London Air Cadets by dropping us an email at wso4.london@aircadets.org or media.london@aircadets.org and we can tell you more about how to get involved.

All adult volunteers are required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before they can become a member of staff. We hold regular open nights which can help you complete this.

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@LondonAirCad www.facebook.com

Or for information from across the www.facebook.co

The Laser December 2013

London’s Youth Need You

Across the Capital

The Cadet Inter-Service Skill At Arms Meeting (CISSAM) takes place annually, with representatives from London Wing competing at the highest level against army, sea, and other air cadets. 2013 was a hugely successful year, with many trophies, and several cadets from London being awarded “cadet 50” badges – indicating they are amongst the top 50 marksmen across all the cadet forces. Cadets from 31, 241 and 1838 squadrons competed

As well as flying and gliding slots, provided to the cadets through the Air Experience Flights of the RAF – one London squadron has found a very different way to take to the skies! 10 cadets and 2 staff members from 31 (Tower Hamlets) Squadron have attended the Joint Services Parachute Centre, where they successfully completed solo, fixed-line jumps.

on online!

dets or facebook: m/londonaircadets

e London & South East Region visit om/aircadetslaser

www.laseratc.org

The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme is an important part of many squadron calendars, with cadets working towards their skills, volunteering and physical sections during parade nights, and spending summer weekends completing their expeditions.

Cadets travel all around the country on these expeditions to complete their Bronze, Silver and Gold awards.

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London’s Youth Need You

Volunteers Graduate

Over 50 adult volunteers from across the three cadet forces have graduated with awards from the Cadet Vocational Qualifcations Office (CVQO).

The volunteers, including 12 from London and South East Region had their qualifications formally presented at the prestigious CVQO qualification ceremony held at the Kia Oval in London.

Adult volunteers came from all over the country and further, some as far afield as Hong Kong and Trinidad to graduate. The Right Honourable Lord Lingfield, chairman of trustees at CVQO presented the awards from both the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) and City & Guilds, with the highest level awarded being the City & Guilds Membership - the equivalent of a Masters degree.

Group Captain L Hakin Commandant of LaSER, representing the Commandant Air Cadets said; “It is great to see so many adult volunteers taking up the challenge of CVQO, already they give up so much of their time doing so much with the cadets and their respective organisations, to then put in extra work to complete a degree level award is quite an achievement”.

After the ceremony, graduates were joined by their families and friends to a fine graduation lunch and were able to talk and share their experiences. Squadron Leader Banks, Sussex Wing’s Adventure Training Officer, said “I didn’t get the chance to go to university; however CVQO has given me the opportunity to be

able to use what I’ve already been doing within my role in the Air Cadets and with some extra hard work, turn it into a tangible qualification that is comparable to an Honours Degree”.

Also receiving a Graduateship was Flight Lieutenant Russell Dowling, who commands Sevenoaks Squadron (pictured below). He commented, “Undertaking the Graduateship with CVQO really helped me reflect on my time with the Air Cadets and the wide range of skills it has given me as an adult volunteer, many of which I use day to day in my main employment” Graduates on the day from LaSER were: City and Guilds Graduateship in Youth Management and Training - Level 6 Neil Banks GCGI Sussex Wing Mark Bird GCGI London Wing Andrew Byrne GCGI Surrey Wing Russell Dowling GCGI Kent Wing David Ratcliffe GCGI Surrey Wing City And Guilds Licentiateship in Youth Leadership and Training – Level 4 Michael Beadle LCGI Essex Wing Insitute of Leadership and Management Level 3 Award Alexander Harley ILM level 3 Middlesex Wing Maxine Hopkins ILM level 3 London Wing Nicholas Lauder ILM level 3 London Wing Alexander McMillan ILM level 3 Essex Wing Cydonie Riley ILM level 3 London Wing Joseph Wales ILM level 3 London Wing

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The Laser December 2013

Wimbledon Cadet Snaps the Winner Air Cadet Sean Paterson from 18(F) Wimbledon Squadron in Surrey Wing has won the Cadet Category in the prestigious RAF annual photographic competition with a stunning picture of the Red Arrows (shown above) His photograph of the Red Arrows was taken at the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford in July.

Sean travelled to London in October with his parents, Mark and Colleen Paterson and Flight Lieutenant Richard Blain, Officer Commanding 18F Squadron, to receive his award from the Air Chief Marshall Sir Andrew Pulford at the prestigious Royal Air Force Club in Piccadilly.

Sean is 15 and has been a cadet with 18F (Wimbledon) Squadron for just over two years. He is a pupil in Year 11 at Wimbledon College.

Sean said; “I was more than a little nervous when I got to the RAF Club but was immediately put at ease - everyone was very encouraging, supportive and welcoming, especially Warrant Officer Bufton, who organised the entire day. It was especially nice to know that it would be a less formal event than I had feared and that I wouldn’t have to salute the Air Chief Marshal. The other photographs were stunning and very professional and it was great to be in the company of such accomplished photographers.”

Sean’s dad, Mark said; “Sean started picking up my camera a few years ago and

I was amazed by what he achieved - he really framed up his images and thought about the shots he was taking. I thought this lad really has a talent when it comes to photography so last year I was able to buy him a proper DSLR with a telephoto lens, and he really took to it. Though he’d had a fair bit of practice beforehand, it was only his second big outing with the lens when he got the winning shot.”

“I am sure that Sean was a little nervous when we arrived at the RAF Club - but everybody was so kind and encouraging.

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www.laseratc.org

The Chief of the Air Staff was very approachable and spoke to Sean after the awards. His comments to BFBS afterwards about the photo really were the icing on the cake of a very special day.”

After presenting the awards to all the winners, the Air Chief Marshall said; “The competition entries this year are once again of the highest quality and showcase not only the abilities of our Royal Air Force photographers but also the tremendous span of operations our people and equipment conduct.” ■

The Laser December 2013 19

From East Ham to Rajasthan

Expedition Thar Horizon II - 282 Squadron expedition to Rajasthan, India, 2013 A select team of 15 cadets and 5 staff would only made a small impact to a huge problem, but they would put big smiles on some of the most poorest and poverty stricken children in India.

After nearly a year of planning, days of fundraising, wet training weekends on Army Training Estates, 282 (East Ham) Squadron’s India expedition team departed on a 10,000 mile adventure which would also be the most challenging task the cadets would have done; To refurbish a school in a harsh poverty stricken environment and change some very special lives, forever.

The cadets couldn’t prepare enough for what they were about to see and experience, and their excitement was certainly high when they all met at Heathrow Airport Virgin Atlantics CheckIn desk. This expedition would definitely change their lives! Bags full of donated clothing and equipment for the desert, which included plenty of Imodium; the team were eager to complete the mission and make a difference.

Greeted by 40°C temperatures, the team spent the first day acclimatising and were officially welcomed to the country

by Brigadier McCall, the UK Defence Advisor in Delhi. In the first few hours of arriving in the country, the team came face-to-face with the Indian poverty crisis.

Containing most of the world’s poverty, the seriousness and magnitude of the situation in India set in with the team, more so when they arrived at the railway station ready for an overnight journey to the desert which was an experience in itself!

Arriving near the Pakistan border, it was a little sightseeing before heading to the project

site in the desert.

Flight Lieutenant Chris Booty who was the organising Officer explained: “Going from the city to the remoteness of the Thar Desert, I couldnt help but notice the cadets thinking and grasping the problem whilst looking out the train window, dazed at the shear difference of the way of life compared to what they are use to. I knew they would embrace the culture and do their best to make a change. Venturing out of their comfort zone, it was going it be a big adventure for them which is what it is all about! We had the perfect team to make that change”.

It wasn’t long before the team got to work on the school refurb. Minds were set and the leadership along with the great teamwork ability was evident as the cadets worked hard each day to finish the job.

Cadets had meetings to discuss what to do in each of the classrooms and several themes were applied.

Cadet Sergeant Mark Kawesa who took on the role as Project Manager spoke of his motivation, “I wanted to help, I enjoy helping others. Seeing what standards children have here in the desert made my efforts double to give them something extra special”.

The days were long and hot. Fetching water from the wells, using primitive equipment, avoiding scorpions and odd looking wasps all made the task more challenging for the team, but didn’t divert their attention to the task in hand.

The local children

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gathered at the school on the last day of the project in anticipation of the cadets handing their school back. Gifts were exchanged and the cadets had a chance to stand back and look at their work.

Cadet Michael Shirley commented on his thoughts on the finished product “Seeing the slums and poverty was heart breaking for me and to make a positive difference to just a few was really selffulfilling”.

The following days were spent travelling across the desert by camel, whom the cadets got to know quite well.

Stopping off at prominent sand dunes, the team spent many nights camping in front of fantastic and memorable views of the desert plains. The camel safari gave way to plenty of time for the cadets to reflect on their achievements, life, and prosperous future ahead of them, along with demanding levels of teamwork as they often only had themselves due to the remoteness of the camp.

For Cadet Corporal Luiza Stewart, it was a perfect moment to relax and think, “The moments on the sand dunes during the amazing sunsets, I often got a bit emotional thinking about things back home and how lucky I was.

The scenery was breath-taking

The Laser December 2013

Remembrance

and I couldn’t believe that what we were doing and have done in India was real.

This added to the whole feeling. So many emotions and thoughts, the freedom to think in tranquillity was bliss, something we don’t get much of in the UK”.

Leaving the desert, the final days included a safari in the Bengal Tiger National Park and a visit to the glamorous Taj Mahal, which was a fitting end to a fantastic journey through the most challenging but inspirational trek of all time for the cadets. Members also got the chance to meet the maintainers of the Taj Mahal and work with the equipment used to shape the marble used on the Taj Mahal.

The expedition was not only a first of overseas visits for the cadets, but also for the Training Officer who had never flown before, Civilian Instructor Billy Moore, who went on to say “India was an amazing opportunity to broaden my horizons and open my eyes to a different way of life. By living and working so closely with locals during the project, myself and the cadets were able to develop a greater understanding of how people are making the most of what they have, however limited. Since returning I have considered the things I have and now appreciate them far more than when I left. I am sure this is the case for the cadets. The Air Cadets certainly do foster the spirit of adventure!”

The Thar Horizon II expedition will be one that the team will never forget. They stamped their mark on the largest state of India and put forward the best of the RAF Air Cadets. 282 (East Ham) Squadron Thar Horizon II expedition team has signed off.. till next time. ■ www.laseratc.org

Staines and Egham Cadets Scoop Elworthy Trophy Air Cadets from 398 (Staines and Egham) Squadron, have won the coveted Elworthy Trophy, Greater London’s tri-service cadet military skills competition.

At the weekend, 72 Cadets from the four Cadet services within Greater London (Sea Cadet Corps, Army Cadet Force, Air Cadets and Combined Cadet Force) battled it out at the annual event, this year held at the Cadet Training Centre in Frimley, Surrey. The competition tests the basic skills of the teams of Cadets and combines these with general physical and mental agility. It is a challenging competition and is fiercely contested by all who enter.

The Cadets were put through their paces during the two day event and took part in a series of fun and demanding team activities including archery, drill/ turnout, three command tasks, shooting in the indoor ranges and air rifle shooting, rowing, first aid, navigation, watermanship skills, a two tonne vehicle pull and a water run.

The Air Cadets from 398 Squadron performed well across the board and won outright four of the thirteen events.

Colonel Ian Denison OBE, the Army’s Cadet Force Training Advisor and instrumental in the planning and organisation of the event, enjoyed watching the teams of Cadets contest each task; ”The contest this year has been totally revamped and was as competitive as ever with all the teams showing bags of enthusiasm and team spirit.” Colonel Denison also thanked the Management Committee and The Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths for their

continued support and sponsorship of the competition.

This year was a one-two for the Air Cadets with 328 (Kingston upon Thames) Squadron finishing second. Cadet Sergeant Jamie Popplewell (15), a student at Herschel Grammar School in Slough has been an Air Cadet for three years and led his team to victory; “It’s a great honour for us to win the Elworthy Trophy and we’re really thrilled. We’ve put in a lot of training and effort and I’m very proud of the whole team and what we’ve achieved. We have had brilliant fun and at the same time, put all our abilities, strengths and weaknesses into practice by working as a team. It really means the world to us!”

Presenting the Elworthy Trophy was Wing Commander Mike Dudgeon, Vice-Lord Lieutenant for Greater London and Sergeant Johnson Beharry VC presented the individual stand awards. Congratulating all the teams, Wing Commander Dudgeon said; “Your enthusiasm and determination as you completed each of these tasks has been wonderful to see and you have displayed great teamwork and leadership.”

Throughout the weekend, the Cadets were looked after by volunteer Adult Instructors who manage a broad programme of activities designed to develop character and leadership. Flight Sergeant Jan Nyeki of 398 Squadron commented, “We’re obviously thrilled that the Cadets have performed so well this weekend and it’s welldeserved. It’s very much a team effort with regard to training and adult volunteer Sergeant Jodie Gregory especially has worked very hard with the Cadets.” ■ 21

News Round-Up

RAF Charitible Trust Gets Cadets on the Move Cadets at 1903 (Penge) Squadron are broadening their horizons after taking delivery of a brand new minibus, helped by a grant of £4,834.10 from the RAF Charitable Trust.

The squadron had been without its own transport for some years, but through its own fundraising efforts and the generosity of the Trust, the Big Lottery Fund and local re-use charity give2give, the Cadets now have an eye-catching new vehicle.

Flight Lieutenant John Wohlgemuth, Officer Commanding Penge Squadron said; “Without transport, the Cadets have been restricted in what they can do, or have had to rely on parents and volunteers ferrying them about. With this new minibus we can offer a lot more activities, and we’ve already used it for a visit to the Air Cadet Gliding School at Kenley (pictured top), and to help provide support at the Leonard Cheshire Tri Together event.”

The dynamic graphics on the minibus not only make it look fantastic but

also provide an excellent bill board for recruitment. Cadet Flight Sergeant Fraser Bostellie commented; “When we are out in the bus we get so many comments and enquiries about the squadron, it’s unbelievable. In fact it’s not just a minibus but an integral part of the squadron. We are all very proud to travel in it.”

Air Commodore Tim Winstanley, Director of the RAF Charitable Trust, added; “Mobility is clearly a very important issue for Air Cadet Squadrons and the Trust is pleased that we have been able to support this purchase of a minibus. Hopefully we will see the Penge cadets driving it to next year’s Air Tattoo!”

Also in receipt of a grant was 1163 (Colne Valley) Squadron. The massive grant of £10,000 has help ed them to buy a new 17-seater minibus with the aim of expanding the activities Cadets can attend, increase links with the RAF, and to raise the Squadron’s profile in the local community.

The bus has already seen action with

Croydon Cadets Pack Shoeboxes of Smiles Cadets at 97 (Croydon) Sqn are set to make 20 children from around the globe smile this Christmas.

For the second year running the squadron has taken part in a Shoebox Appeal to give deprived children what could be their only present at Christmas.

The Shoebox Appeal was part of Operation Christmas Child, which is run by the Samaritan’s Purse, and asked people to donate a shoebox full of goodies for children who live in Africa, Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

The children will receive one shoebox

each which will contain items such as toys, stationery, toothbrushes, soaps and hats.

Working with staff and the Squadron Padre the cadets worked hard over a number of few weeks to build a store of gifts which could be used in the shoeboxes.

Squadron Commanding Officer Flt Lt Cooney said: “We are thrilled to see so many of the cadets get involved with such a worth while cause..

Civilian Instructor Claire Mills who leads the campaign each year said “Although this

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1163 Squadron, and it’s also being made available to other Air Cadet Squadrons in Essex Wing, enabling around 600 Cadets to benefit from the vehicle, and to the local branch of the Royal British Legion.

The Cadets are delighted with their new transport.

Cadet Corporal Ricky Keen said; “The minibus is very important and significant to 1163 Squadron as it shows who we are and what we do. It’s also something that we’ve helped to buy through collecting money, so that makes it personal”.

Cadet Matthew Wigley said; “The minibus is more reliable: you can’t always rely on parents to take you places, but you can the Staff.”

With Cadet Sergeant Emily Stokes adding; “It’s meant we can expand our opportunities. The minibus is a place to brief and de-brief, a focal point, and it gives us more freedom as a Squadron as we do not have to rely on parents to run us about.” ■

appeal is run by a Christian organisation we want to make it clear that it is for children of all faiths and the key focus is to put a smile on a face of a child who may not be as fortunate as we are.” ■

The Laser December 2013

News Round-Up

Minister Visits Gliding Squadron The work of the committed volunteer staff who keep the RAF’s Air Cadets flying has been praised by Armed Forces Minister Mark Francois, after he got his own experience of the training they provide.

Mr Francois, who is MP for Rayleigh and Wickford in Essex, made the short trip across the county to MDPGA Wethersfield, to see for himself what goes on at 614 Volunteer Gliding Squadron. The training unit has been based on the MOD site since 1982.

Staffed by RAF Volunteer Reserve officers and civilian volunteers, the Squadron provides gliding training for cadets from the Air Training Corps and Combined Cadet Force (RAF) – young people aged 13-19.

The squadron operates the Grob 103 ‘Viking’ aircraft, a two-seat winch-launched glider, and run a variety of different courses based on the age and experience level of the cadet being trained. These include the basic Gliding Induction Course which provides younger cadets with a familiarisation flight and an introduction to gliding, and the Gliding Scholarship for those at more advanced levels.

Ultimately, an Air Cadet who performs well in their gliding training can gain the necessary qualifications to fly a glider ‘solo’ before they are old enough to pass a driving test.

During his visit, Mr Francois chatted to the Volunteer Gliding Squadron’s staff and some of the cadets undergoing training.

He saw how the young cadets who attend a Volunteer Gliding Squadron are actively involved in the running of their day's gliding, assisting with getting the aircraft off the ground and some of the associated administrative tasks.

The Minister was also able to get airborne himself and experience a brief Gliding Induction Course of his www.laseratc.org

own, as the pilot - 614 Squadron’s Commanding Officer Squadron Leader George Capon RAFVR(T) talked him through the basic training drills that the cadets experience.

Mr Francois said; “I have been very impressed by the set-up at Wethersfield, the commitment of the volunteer instructors who offer this high quality flying training, and the dedication and skill of the young Air Cadets who I met. I found my visit to 614 Squadron Volunteer Gliding Squadron both fascinating and inspiring and I would encourage any young people who are looking for a new interest to give the Air Training Corps serious consideration.”

Mr Francois’ visit coincided with the end of a week-long course for Air Cadets from London and Essex. All four of the cadets on the course passed, having completed a solo flight in the Viking and Mr Francois concluded his visit by presenting each cadet with their official certificates and badges – known as “wings”.

Squadron Leader Capon said; “It has been an absolute privilege to have the Minister visit and present the cadets with their wings. I am always pleased to have the opportunity to extol the virtues of what we do and show off what our cadets can achieve.” ■

Cadets Pack For Troops Cadets from 66 (Selsdon) Squadron have been busy over the last few months collecting shoeboxes and goodies to make up parcels to go out to troops serving on the frontline in Afghanistan, in conjunction with Support Our Soldiers.

The idea came from a member of staff, Civilian Instructor Jessica Rick, after meeting the local Support Our Soldiers coordinator, Sandra Davey, in September.

CI Rick said “I thought it would be a good idea to do it as a squadron. It reminds the cadets of the sacrifices those serving abroad make and it shows the troops that although they are far away, they are never far from our thoughts”.

The 12 boxes the cadets have filled will

Sussex Staff Raise Funds to help Brain Tumour Research The Sussex Wing Adventure Training Team has just received a certificate of fundraising from Brain Tumour Research after they raised £130 for the vital research into brain tumours. The money was raised at their annual team dinner back in March.

Squadron Leader Neil Banks, Adventure Training Officer for Sussex Wing said; "I know this subject is as close to the team’s heart as it is mine. My wife Amber was diagnosed with a glioblastoma multiforme brain tumour over two years ago. The team and all our helpers in the Air Cadets have been very supportive towards our situation, they all wanted to help in some way and it was decided to raise some money for this cause". "Amber is a real fighter and we have been through some really tough times over the last two years, but I must say that all my colleagues in the Air Cadets have been fabulous with all their support, it's been like having an extra family supporting us along the way".

Unfortunately brain tumour research is woefully underfunded it gets less than 1% of the national cancer research spending in the UK and yet 58% of men and women diagnosed with brain cancer die within a year compared to 5% for breast cancer, 35% for leukaemia and 7% for prostate cancer.

If you would like to donate please visit http://www.braintumourresearch.org ■ be given to Support Our Soldiers, who will then arrange for them to be transported to Afghanistan in time for Christmas.

Some of the goodies in the boxes include sweets, biscuits and other snacks, as well as toiletries, puzzles and Christmas items such as Christmas pudding and stollen. If you would like to find out more about Support Our Soldiers, please visit the website: www.supportoursoldiers.co.uk. ■

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News Round-Up

A Trio of Leaders at 1254

Three cadets from 1254 (Godalming) Squadron have attended the Air Cadets Leadership Course at RAF Cranwell.

Corporal Rowley, Cadet Saunders and Cadet Ho had a tough but great week .Each have stories to tell. They graduated with two Merits and a Distinction. Well done to them all. Below Cadet Saunders gives us his view.

The Air Cadet Leadership Course is a week at RAFC Cranwell that focuses on teaching and testing the leadership skills of cadets. As well as assessing and improving “Leader qualities” through a series of command tasks, the course looks at drill, discipline, maintaining equipment, personal standards, basic fieldcraft and – most importantly – developing a relationship with your team. Naturally, with all these aspects being scrutinized by the omnipresent Directing Staff, time is short and deadlines strict.

Candidates must submit a personal statement when they apply for a course, meaning that you are guaranteed to be working with some of the most motivated, hand-picked cadets in the ACO – In my flight alone where a scattering of aspiring Engineers, Royal Marine Commandos, Paratroopers and RAF

Regiment Officers. While the course certainly keeps you on your toes, the high standards set by the staff are never unattainable, and as soon as the flight begins to work properly as a team things can get much easier indeed!

The bulk of the assessment and training is done through command tasks; short scenarios that increase in complexity and cruelty as the week develops. Theory lessons are kept to an absolute minimum, with the focus being on dealing with problems in command – task – fantasy – land (carrying volatile chemicals across a swamp filled with flying nuclear filled piranhas) and in inevitable cadet reality (Cadet Bloggs has lost every item of uniform and was due on parade five minutes ago.)

I signed up to the course hoping for the kind of challenge that is the speciality of the Air Cadet Organisation, and was not disappointed. I was lucky enough to have been a member of what I consider to be the best flight on the course, with some of the best cadets in the corps, but I guarantee that every candidate would have said the exact same thing!

While none of us felt entitled (or even worthy!) to be passing out on the College Hall Officers’ Mess parade ground at the end of the week, it certainly felt like a fitting end to such a unique experience. ■

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An Inside Look at Virgin Atlantic A group of air cadets from Biggin Hill were recently given a unique insight into how Virgin Atlantic plans and delivers its services. The cadets, all with an interest in aviation and looking at career opportunities in the business, were taken on a comprehensive visit of the training, operating and engineering facilities at Virgin’s Gatwick base.

The day started with an understanding of the demanding training standards required of the cabin crew and in particular ensuring safety of passengers was paramount.

However, cadets were also shown the high quality of in-flight service offered

by Virgin Atlantic throughout all their aircraft. This was followed by an insight into the “24/7,” all year round operations centre, where aircraft and crews were managed to ensure a seamless service.

It was fascinating to better understand the numerous technical and operating matters that had to be dealt with to ensure safe, punctual and consistent services were provided to the far corners of the world.

The tour concluded with a first-hand look at one of the Boeing 747 (Jumbo) jets completing its regular maintenance and being prepared for service the following day.

“This is the first time I have stood so close to such an amazingly big aircraft”, said one cadet and continued “it makes me think seriously about looking at a career in this business”.

Commanding Officer of 2427, Squadron Leader Paul Saunders said “it was very generous of Virgin Atlantic to give up their time to show young people how an airline functions and extend their understanding as to the numerous opportunities that exist within the industry”. ■

The Laser December 2013

News Round-Up

Fundraiser joins the Marines for the RAF Benevolent Fund

Gillingham Celebrates Successes Air Cadets from Gillingham have been rewarded for their achievements during their Annual Inspection.

The cadets, from 1039 (Gillingham) Squadron, were presented with awards during the ceremony at the squadron headquarters in Marlborough Road, Gillingham, on Friday 15th November.

Squadron Leader Tim Croydon, a former Gillingham squadron cadet currently serving with the Royal Air Force, was invited to inspect the cadets and present the awards, which celebrate the cadets' success and achievements over the past twelve months. Awards were presented to: • Cadet Claire Cooper: Sports Trophy; • Cadet Sergeant Zoe Onegi: Dave Wood Trophy for Leadership; • Cadet Ryan Smith: Best Effort; • Cadet Kaylli Stephens: Best New Cadet; • Cadet Corporal Robert Stokes: Best NCO; • Cadet Alex Tricker: Best Attendance, Cadet of the Year and Smartest Cadet; and • Cadet Corporal Raphael Yahyi: Community Cup. Cadet Vuyani Mushekwa was voted Best Cadet by his peers, while Vulcan Flight won the year-round inter-flight competition and were named the Best Flight.

After the awards were presented, Cadet Corporal Stokes and Cadet Mushekwa were presented with their drumming proficiency badges, while Cadet Blaze www.laseratc.org

Stephens (aged 16) and Cadet Luke Tyler (aged 15) were promoted to the rank of cadet corporal.

During the course of the evening, there was also a chance to recognise the achievements of the adult volunteers on the squadron. After completing their 12-month probationary period, Sergeant (ATC) Matthew Bairnsfather and Sergeant (ATC) Daniel Pearmain were presented with certificates of appointment.

Sgt (ATC) Bairnsfather was also presented with a pace stick as a gift from the squadron following his successful completion of the Senior Non-Commissioned Staff Drill Instructors' Course in September.

Sqn Ldr Croydon said “The range of activities the cadets have been involved in is very impressive and they were all very enthusiastic about what the RAF Air Cadets has to offer. The awards were welldeserved.

“I left Gillingham squadron in 1985, so I enjoyed returning to the squadron and seeing what they are doing now.

In particular, the recent support from MidKent College is laudatory and very exciting for the squadron.”

Flight Lieutenant Paul Collins, Gillingham Squadron’s Officer Commanding, added “Our cadets have achieved so much over the past year it has been difficult to decide who should receive each trophy.

"I'm proud of all of our cadets and what they have done and look forward to another successful year for Gillingham squadron." ■

Flight Lieutenant Kev Hall RAFVR(T), the Essex Wing ATC Shooting Officer has recently ran 10 kilometres in Washington DC in the Marine Corps Marathon 10K to raise money for his comrades in the RAF Regiment.

Flight Lieutenant Hall, a former RAF Regiment Gunner, ran three days after his 50th birthday and just over two years after suffering a heart attack to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund, the RAF’s leading welfare charity, and is hoping to raise over £500.

Flight Lieutenant Hall said before the race; “I've been training since May, I want to achieve a personal objective but at the same time support a worthwhile charity, the RAF Benevolent Fund.”

The RAF Benevolent Fund provides financial, practical and emotional support to all members of the RAF family whether they are serving or former members as well as their partners and dependants. They help members of the RAF family deal with a wide range of issues: from childcare and relationship difficulties to injury and disability, and from financial hardship and debt to illness and bereavement.

Flight Lieutenant Hall completed the 10K in a personal best time of 1.08.33, finishing 4,356th out of 7,607. At the time of going to press he had raised £405, but is still accepting donations.

To donate visit: www.justgiving.com/ Kev-Hall2 ■

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News Round-Up

Surbiton Cadets’ Alpine Adventure Over the summer cadets from 1034 (Surbiton) Squadron ventured across Europe for an Alpine adventure. Here’s the account of one of the cadets, Cadet Corporal Dunn.

In the first week of July this year, myself and seven other cadets from my squadron, went with three members of our staff to the Swiss Alps. We stayed on a small beautiful campsite in a little village called Arolla, with a view of the village just above us.

After leaving our squadron at 5am on the Thursday morning, we took the mini bus to Gatwick and flew to Geneva, we went with EasyJet, and had a laugh on the plane! We then had to take a two hour train journey (with very strict staff!), and then two buses to our campsite! It was a very long day, we were all tired from

carrying our kit (weighing around 20 kg) and it took us just over 12 hours to get there!

The purpose of our trip to the Swiss Alps was to experience mountain walking in a different atmosphere compared to that of our usual camps in the Lake District and Snowdonia. There were lots of elements that were different in Switzerland, including; the weather, the people, the views and the food! Even though the sun was very hot when we were walking, there was lots of snow all around us, and sometimes we had to slightly change paths to get to where we wanted to go! The people that we met on our walks were very nice, and always gave us a smile!

The sights that we saw in Switzerland were breathtaking, the mountains,

Cadet Help RAF Charitable Trust 291(Westminster & Chelsea) Squadron have been involved with the RAF Charitable Trust for many years.

The cadets and staff involved are honoured and privileged to help with such a great charity, raising money for the Royal Air force.

The cadets enjoy meeting the people involved with the trust and getting to find out where all the money raised actually goes to and what it means to them.

The cadets over the years have always managed to beat the record for

program and flag sales each year and this year was no different. They also get the opportunity to meet all the high ranking uniformed personnel from the armed forces and also the various VIP guests, also being able to meet the Commandant Air Cadets Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty, who is always happy to see the cadet involvement with the Trust and gets great satisfaction when the Air Cadets are mentioned at the Concert, the squadron prides itself on being the premier squadron when it comes to community and ceremonial duties in London Wing.

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glaciers and general views were stunning, and there were loads of photographic moments. In fact, I think our group has just over 2000 photos between us, bearing in mind we were only there for a week!

The walking was also very different to that in the UK. This is because we had to think about different elements such as altitude and also different types of ground including; rocks, streams, grass, wood chippings, stone and snow!

The food we had in Switzerland was cooked by our lovely squadron chef, Merlin. We had an array of different food throughout the week, including hot chocolate and croissants for breakfast and rice and chilli for dinner. One evening I made dinner for the group from scratch – including going to the supermarket to buy all the ingredients to make a chicken casserole and rice!

One of the main highlights of the week for the group was our trip out to a hut.

We walked all day (around seven hours) to get to the hut, which was gorgeous. It was quite basic and made from wood, but very traditional and warm compared to our tents back at the campsite! We stayed over night here, and had some gorgeous food. The only bad part of the hut was the toilets – they hung over the edge of the mountain and had a very long drop underneath them! With no running water – so no showers and we had to brush our teeth with drinking water!!

I had a truly fantastic time in the Alps, and would happily go again! I was very lucky to be offered this trip with my squadron and would honestly recommend this trip to anyone, and to also take any opportunity you’re given in the Air Cadets.

The trip was definitely the highlight of my 5th year in Air Cadets! A big thank you to our squadron staff for taking us, and to all the cadets for making it one of the best weeks in my cadet life, and for making memories that I shall always remember! ■

The Laser December 2013

News Round-Up

Ealing Cadet Top Fundraiser On the 9th November 2013, a group of Air Cadets arrived at the Eagle Radio Studios in Guildford to take part in a project commemorating 100 years since the outbreak of WWI. As part of Eagle Radio’s Centenary Broadcasts, the Cadets from 1075 (Camberley) Squadron acted as roving reporters to assist in recording ‘The Centenary Update’, a monthly War Report documenting what happened in the lead up and throughout the Great War. Gemma King, the show producer, stated: “The Great War can be seen as a complicated and often confusing series of events for young people. Eagle Radio’s aim is to make this period of history as easy to understand as possible, because understanding will help future generations remember and realise the sacrifices our ancestors have made .

These Air Cadets were set an ambitious task and recorded some fantastic audio, which really helps tell the story of WWI in an understandable and accessible way” Flight Sergeant James Parker, who accompanied the cadets on the day commented, “It was good to see the enthusiasm of the cadets to take part in this project. Teenagers often shy away from talking in public, but these cadets really went for it.” He added, “They also had a genuine interest in the stories they were reading, which described the reasons Europe went to war and the early conflicts.” www.laseratc.org

An Eailing Cadet has become a top fundraiser through completing the annual Nijmegen four day marches.

Cadet Viktor Woloszczuk of 342 (Ealing & Brentford) Squadron raised a total of £1,430.25 for both his school and his Squadron through his fundraising efforts.

Viktor had completed the RAF two-day march with many of his compatriots at his Squadron, but then decided to step up the challenge and attempt the four day march in Nijmegen, Holland with Middlesex Wing.

The Nijmegen marches are an annual event where participants walk at least 30 kilometres a day over the four days. As this was a big challenge, Viktor decided to make it a fundraiser.

While it was hard work, he really enjoyed the walking in Nijmegen, and he’s thinking about doing it all again for 2014. ■

Air Cadets on “Air” If you would like to find out more about the Centenary Project or listen to the shows, go to www.eagleextra.co.uk/ centenary The programmes recorded by the air cadets will be broadcast on 1566 MW or online at www.eagleextra.co.uk at midday on: Sun 26th Jan 2014 Sun 23rd Feb 2014

Sun 25th May 2014 Sun 29th June 2014 Sun 28th Sept 2014 Sun 30th Nov 2014 The broadcasts started on remembrance sunday with stories read by scouts from Surrey and Hampshire, and will be broadcast on a monthly basis for the next year covering the stories from exactly 100 years before. ■ 27

College Adopts Sqn

AOC Inspects 1408 Squadron Cadets from Dorking and Cranleigh were rewarded by one of the most senior officers in the Royal Air Force at their recent annual inspection.

The cadets and staff of 1408 (Dorking) Squadron and 1408 (Cranleigh) Detached Flight gathered together on a blustery Sunday to celebrate their successes of the year in front of their family, friends and dignitaries. With a large storm building, that hit southern England with full force the next day, the cadets marched smartly onto parade with the Squadron band playing to be inspected by the Air Officer Commanding number 2 Group, Air Vice Marshal Reynolds CBE DFC. Having been inspected, and with Air Vice Marshal Reynolds taking the opportunity to talk to many of the cadets about their experiences, the cadets and staff from both the HQ squadron and the detached flight marched past saluting the Air Vice Marshal with their families applauding. The assembled cadets, staff and guests then retired to the sports club house of Insurance company Friends Life, who had kindly agreed to host the event. Here came the highlight of many of the cadets’ year, the annual prize giving ceremony, where a lucky few cadets received physical recognition of their achievements in the form of a trophy presented by Air Vice Marshal Reynolds.

Before presenting the awards the Air Vice Marshal commented, “It is actually one of the highlights of my job because it is quite humbling.”

He then explained, “You see what people have achieved.

You see what outstanding service people

have given to both the air cadets, their squadrons and to the wider air force. So it really is a pleasure to be here today.”

The Air Vice Marshal went on to describe his role at No 2 Group, and the aircraft and tasks he is in command of.

He also commented on how his passion for flying was ignited by the Air Cadet Organisation, back when he himself was a cadet, going solo in a glider at the age of 16. He summed up by saying to the cadets, “I got to where I am now through starting where you are. I remember wearing that uniform all those years ago.”

Some 16 trophies were presented to the cadets of both the Squadron and detached Flight including; Cadet Warrant Officer Lucy Clark winning best Senior NCO, Corporal Annabelle Dubois winning best Junior NCO (both award across both units), with Cadet Lisa Baker Best Cadet of the Detached Flight and Cadet Lydia Cassidy taking the same prize for the HQ Squadron.

Cadet Lisa Baker, who also won the Sport Trophy, was the proud first recipient of the Chris Wick Award for the Best Musician. This was presented in honour of Wing Commander Wick, who sadly passed away last year after over 50 years’ service to the Air Training Corps. Chris always had a passion for music and established the national ATC Marching Band Championships in 1994, so it was fitting that a music award be named in his honour. He wife Jenny was there to present the award for the first time (pictured below).

The Air Vice Marshal summed up by congratulating the cadets on their standard of drill, and thanked the staff for their continued work, and the parents and family for their support.

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MidKent College celebrated Kent Cadet Week with the formal adoption of its local Air Cadet unit.

The new partnership with 1039 (Gillingham) Squadron will open up a range of benefits for the organisation, including the use of facilities at the Medway Campus for online tests, presentation evenings and more.

Students on a variety of courses at the College will also get involved with projects and activities connected to the work of the Air Cadets.

Principal Sue McLeod said: “We are delighted to be linking up with 1039 Squadron and look forward to building on this exciting new partnership in the weeks and months to come.

“The Air Cadet Organisation has a proud tradition of training, developing and enabling young people to succeed in life – philosophies that go hand-in-hand with the College’s own.

“We hope this will be the start of a long and prosperous relationship that will benefit both Air Cadets and MidKent College students alike.”

1039 Squadron was founded in 1942 but disbanded shortly after the end of the Second World War, but reformed in 1950 and was one of the first to accept female members when new regulations were introduced in 1985.

Today the squadron offers a wide range of activities for all its cadets, including flying and gliding, adventure training, shooting, sports, music and more.

Commanding officer Flight Lieutenant Paul Collins said: “Our new partnership with MidKent College will bring lots of fantastic benefits to our cadets, who cannot wait to take advantage of what the College has to offer.

“Our number one aim is to help young people be the best they can be, and we are overjoyed that the College has taken the decision to do what it can to help us succeed.”

MidKent College already had a readymade link with the Air Cadets, as its national director of music Nick Sermon is also the College’s teaching and learning manager for Media/Music Technology, and Art and Design.

Earlier this year Nick received a personal commendation of meritorious service from former RAF Chief of Staff Sir Stephen Dalton in recognition of his work with the Air Cadets’ marching band, which he formed in 2009 and now has hundreds of young people applying to join every year.

The Laser December 2013

Blue Beret Walk

Ealing Air Cadets Win Inter-Service Challenge The final part of the Ealing InterCadet Competition took place early in November at St Benedict’s School in Ealing with the drill section followed by the prize giving by Representative Deputy Lieutenant for the Borough, Robert Leader.

The overall competition winner’s team was 342 (Ealing) Air Cadets with second place going to 203 Brentford Army Cadet Force.

The teams competing were 342 (Ealing) Air Training Corps, 203 Brentford Army Cadet Force, 1846 (Southall) Air Cadets, and the Combined Cadet Force at St Benedict’s School.

Event organiser ( Air Cadets Civilian Instructor) Alan Aubeelak said, “This year’s event has been a real challenge to organise for all sorts of reasons, but made all worthwhile by the enthusiasm of all the cadets- its been lovely to see them mixing so well and having a common aim” The four units of uniformed cadets from across the borough of Ealing came together over a period of six months. The cadets aged between 12 and 18 took part in a series of challenges including a General Knowledge Quiz, a Fitness test, Shooting, an Obstacle course, First aid and

Surbiton Festival 2013 Surbiton’s Air Cadets have supported the recent Surbiton Festival, and help raise funds for RAFA at the same time.

The festival involves stalls across the town and a parade through the streets.

This year 1034 (Surbiton) Squadron supported marshalling the event, participating in the parade and running a stall with RAFA. 30 cadets worked hard on the day and all had a thoroughly good time!

The parade was a highlight of the day! It involved all the local organisations, including guides, scouts, a RBL marching band, a cheerleading club and many more! While marching www.laseratc.org

a Drill competition.

When he launched this year’s event in March Representative Deputy Lieutenant for the Borough, Robert Leader said, "It is a great privilege for me to have been asked to be involved in this exciting new venture. The future of our Country lies in the hands of our young people and the Cadets set a fine example of what future generations can achieve through competition and a desire to win.”

Nineteen year old Flight Sergeant Harry Kendall, team captain from the winning 342 (Ealing) Squadron said, “I am absolutely over the moon – ecstatic, that we have won this competition. It’s my last year in cadets and I really wanted to see our name on this winner’s plate” The event is generously supported

by Ealing Council. Council leader, Julian Bell said, "It was a pleasure to support Ealing's cadets. It is always important to honour the valuable contribution our armed forces play in our community.

As Veterans' Champion for Ealing, I am pleased to see so many young people in Ealing are actively involved in the cadets, learning valuable skills, while enjoying themselves by taking part in these challenge events." ■ through the streets the cadets loved hearing the crowd’s comments, “How smart do they look?” and “Look at their shiny shoes!” Overall it was a really good day for the squadron within the community, and managing to raise over £200 for the RAFA Wings appeal. ■

Kent Air Cadets walk for charity to mark the beginning of Kent Cadet Week. The Welling Air Cadets undertook a 5 mile sponsored walk from Queen's House, Greenwich to HMS Belfast.

In what is hoped to be an annual event, the inaugural “Blue Beret Walk”, the 15 cadets and 4 staff donned their big boots, green uniforms and 'Blue Berets' to walk to London via the Thames Pathway Walk. It is a regular walking route for the Capital's charity walkers but many of the cadets have not undertaken it before so it was a surprising challenge to them.

The weather stayed fine and dry and provided a wonderful riverside view as the sun set. Many of the cadets were thrilled to see London illuminated from the river; Greenwich, the towering blocks of Canary Wharf, the river boats, and many of the City landmarks that were illuminated on the horizon.

At HMS Belfast the cadets met with the youngsters from the Sea Cadet Corps unit that meets on the former Royal Navy warship.

Cadet Myles Taylor was walking in memory of his grandfather who sadly passed away that day “I'll do it, because he'd expect me to complete it. He wouldn't want me to give up, and I'm sure he'll be helping me along the way” Cadet Jake Phillimore took the challenge to heart and has managed to raise £93 in sponsorship - a truly fantastic result.

The Blue Beret Walk is just one of the many ways in which the Cadet Forces help youngsters and adults to become better members of the communities they serve.

Cadet Forces Adult Volunteer Charlotte Hall said, “The cadets really enjoyed the walk, although there were a few blisters in the end. Some of the cadets are looking at undertaking the gruelling Nijmegan Marches, 100 miles over four days, and this was their first taste of walking in uniform; the cadets seemed to rise to the challenge”. ■

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Awards & Appointments New staff are appointed in the Air Cadets all the time, whilst other staff and cadets are promoted or presented with awards.

The next few pages will highlight achievements in the Region Civilian Instructors The following staff have recently been appointed as a Civilian Instructor in the Air Training Corps within the Region.

Essex Wing S M Tucker, 1207 (Malden) Squadron C E Core, 276 (Chelmsford) Squadron J H Everett, 1207 (Maldon) Squadron Kent Wing S Jagger, 25 (Parkwood) Sqn H J Burchill, 213 (City of Rochester) Sqn J M Dalton, 1903 (Penge) Sqn M D Prentice, 2158 (Sevenoaks) Sqn A P Spice, 2230 (Sittingbourne) Sqn London Wing J M West, 241 (Wanstead & Woodford) Sqn C Lovell, 27F (Chingford) Sqn M Davies, 241 (Wanstead & Woodford) Sqn D Burgess, 241 (Wanstead & Woodford) Sqn J C Venn, 444 (Shoreditch) Sqn R V Hollington, 2324 (Chigwell) Sqn A I Murphy, 452 (Hornchurch) Sqn R Munoz, 33F (Battersea) Sqn A D Mohanadass, 241 (Wanstead & Woodford)

Sqn O Anwar, 12F (Walthamstow & Leyton) Sqn Middlesex Wing R S Bahra, 78 (Wembley) Sqn S F Gullon, 1374 (East Barnet) Sqn G S Bajwa, 1846 (Southall) Sqn B Birdi, 1083 (Uxbridge) Sqn Surrey Wing F A Khan, 135 (Redhill & Reigate) Sqn F L Boubell, 565 (New Malden & Raynes Park) Sqn T Shah, 328 (Kingston upon Thames) Sqn Sussex Wing M Haswell, 2262 (Bexhill) Sqn X C Millar, 304 (Battle) DF J Hook, 305 (Battle) DF J F Walker, 1015 (Horsham) Sqn R W Harnes, 45 (Worthing) Sqn G Hook, 304 (Battle) DF K Clarke-Hill, 1015 (Horsham) Sqn

Cadet Warrant Officer The following cadets have recently been promoted to Cadet Warrant Officer, the highest rank achievable by a cadet .

Essex Wing CWO D Grant, 1312 (Southend) Squadron Kent Wing CWO N Thomas, 1579 (Erith) Sqn CWO A Collick, 2316 (Sheppey) Sqn CWO E V W Mehmet, 228 (Bromley) Sqn CWO K McKay, 2513 (Romney Marsh) Sqn CWO J P Lee, 1227 (Sidcup) Sqn CWO S McCarthy, 1401 (Chatham) Sqn CWO M Kokuz, 1404 (Chatham) Sqn CWO M Postill, 40 (Maidstone) Sqn

London Wing CWO M Smith, 31 (Tower Hamlets) Sqn CWO A Mandalie, 241 (Wanstead & Woodford) Sqn Middlesex Wing CWO A Jones, 114 (Ruislip & Northwood) Sqn CWO F T Ward, 16F (Wood Green & Hornsey) Sqn CWO P Mitchell, 398 (Staines & Egham) Sqn CWO A Antwis-Veal, 267 (Twickenham) Sqn

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The Laser December 2013

Sports Round Up

Sport

2013-14 Season Results The year started on a high with an excellent and hard fought Inter Wing Swimming Champion in which all Wings fought hard and showed some excellent sportsmanship.

One race to note was the Senior Boys Individual Medley where 0.4 of a second divided first and second place, not a single person took their eyes of this race.

Well done to Middlesex Wing who won the overall championship. With a strong team the Region came second in the Inter Region Championship.

Inter Wing Senior Hockey and Football.

Well this event could have been the Inter Wing Swimming competition with rain all day, despite this the two competitions were hard fought again with excellent team work and sportsmanship showing its full element. Well done to Surrey Wing for winning the Hockey

competition and Sussex Wing for winning the Football. The Region team came 3rd in the Hockey and 4th in the Football on the 16th November.

Inter Wing Senior Rugby and Netball.

With the Samoan National Rugby team (unfortunately not there on the day) using our venue we, were blessed with good quality pitches and the weather was on our side for an excellent day of rugby and Netball. The excellent rugby pitches resulted in some excellent games with Surrey Wing winning the overall competition. At the end of the final I pulled my calf muscle much to everyone’s amusement. Netball winners this year was Kent Wing who fought off hard opposition from all Wings. The outside umpires were impressed with the standard of the games and the sportsmanship of all competitors.

More recently the Region Senior Boys Football and Senior Girls Hockey teams were in action in the inter-region competitions. The Boys finsihed fourth, with the girls picking up bronze medals with a well earned third place. ■

2012-13 Season Awards Female Sports Cadet of the Year

Region Sport Trophy

This year was awarded to one of our youngest recipients, Danielle Rulton of 1163 (Colne Valley) Squadron Essex Wing.

One of her strongest sports is swimming where she helped the Region win the Inter Region Swimming Competition last in that season. She was instrumental in organising a sponsored swim for her Squadron. Outside cadets she is a qualified swimming coach. ■

Congratulations to Kent Wing who retained the Region Sports Trophy and achieved an excellent score of 525 points, this high score helped them to come 2nd overall in the Gillan Trophy which is awarded to the best Wing in the Corps for Sports.

Male Sports Cadet of the Year

1st Kent 525 2nd Essex 405 3rd Sussex 400 4th Surrey 300 5th Middlesex 260 6th London 170

Flight Sergeant Robert Smith of 593 (Swanley) Squadron in Kent Wing was the recipient for the male Sports Cadet of the year. FS Smith has been a strong sports person for both Wing and Region, with participation ranging from Football (Being captain for both teams) to Athletics. At his Squadron he is heavily involved in organising the sports using his sports qualifications to ensure that all cadets get involved. He also uses his CSLA qualification to run sessions at his local Football club. ■ www.laseratc.org

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The Laser December 2013