Inside: Shooting Star Makeover For The Reds Battle For Air Squadron Trophy Air Cadet News

www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets Spring 2015

Carol helps cadet reach for the stars Rebecca needs your help ! Lights ... Camera ... Action ! Bringing ACO History to life

Stepping Up ... Qualified Aerospace Instructors’ Course Seal of Approval Royal Opening of New Wing

www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

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Air Cadet CONTENTS Cover image: Philip Jones

Welcome to

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AirCadet Welcome to another packed edition of Air Cadet! It never ceases to amaze me just how much air cadets achieve in just a few months ... In this issue we hear from Group Captain Les Hakin, London & South East Regional Commandant, who gives his view ‘from the top’ before he leaves the Organisation after many years of incredible service. We also have an in-depth look at the brand new, first ever ACO history DVD that should be with squadrons very soon and find out more about one of the ACO’s premier courses, the Qualified Aerospace Instructors’ Course. Some 40 students drawn from across all six Regions have just graduated in style from QAIC VII – read the article on page 20 and find out if you have what it takes to be part of QAIC VIII, applications for which open next month. As always, cadets have been excellent ambassadors for the Organisation, whether it’s rubbing shoulders with the Chief of the Air Staff at high profile events, demonstrating the best of the best at the CCF’s Air Squadron Trophy competition or achieving individual success like Cadet Flight Sergeant Marcus Horry, who has his sights set on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Happy reading! n

AirCadet is sponsored by:

Email your Cadet news, events and high res pics to: [email protected] 2 Air Cadet SPRING 2015

We are all in awe of Rebecca ... I think her spirit is truly amazing.

www.justgiving.com/

See story on page 8 for full details

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SPRING 2015

AirCadet

Contents Insight 4

From the top Going Forward ...

10 RAF Charitable Trust Features

/Rebecca-Dalgleish

s ...

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25 Face of the Air Cadets Duke Of Edinburgh 28

Shaping the future The DofE approaches its 60th anniversary next year

News

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Queen gives royal seal of approval

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Lights ... Camera ... Action ! Bringing the ACO’s history to life

18 Makeover for the Reds

16 Do Something Different This Summer The Outward Bound Trust 20 Stepping Up ... Qualified Aerospace Instructors Course 32 Ccf Battle For Top Trophy

Managing Editor: Denise Parker Housby E: ACO-HQAC-MC-Head @mod.uk Editor: Carol McCombe E: [email protected] Advertising: Ten Alps Group Sales Manager: Richard Stillman T: 0207 657 1837 Design: Steve J Davies, Air Media Centre, HQ AIR, RAF High Wycombe

Carol helps cadet reach for the stars

24 Volunteering in Goa 26 Cadets compete for South Africa expedition prize 25 Face of the Air Cadets Shooting 36

Shooting Star ... Cadet Marcus Horry has his sights set on the 2020 Olympics

Every care has been taken in the preparation of this magazine, but neither Warners plc nor the ACO can be held responsible for the accuracy of the information herein, or any consequence arising from it. Views expressed by contributors and customers might not reflect the views of the ACO. Produced by Air Media Centre, HQ Air Command. 1507_15SJD © UK MOD Crown Copyright 2015

Printing: Warners Midlands plc, The Maltings Manor Lane, Bourne PE10 9PH T: 01778 391000 www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

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AIR CADET INSIGHT

Going forward ...

From The Top

Well, clearly the prediction in the Autumn 2014 edition that short of insurrection the Commandant would invite Regional Commandants to write the foreword for the Air Cadet magazine has come true. No insurrection! So here I am following in the trail-blazing footsteps of the COS, chosen not because of my charm and wit but because I am leaving soon!

When the Commandant approached me about this, it was not an invitation in its strictest sense – it was more of a delegation of the task from her to me. Delegation is a word much used in the military and the ATC too. It is a concept that we should all understand. Delegation to an individual means that your trust is placed in them and they have the responsibility of carrying out the task ... but they must be competent, trained and capable of carrying out the task. In delegating though you do not abdicate your overall responsibility for that action (so, if I get it wrong Boss!). The Commandant suggested that I might like to review all the changes that have occurred in the period of my long, enjoyable and rewarding tenure as Commandant LaSER. But the 2020 update is out on the street, the inclusivity statement of the ACO is published, the Total Safety Directive issued etc all of which indicates that the only constant in our organisation is change. I decided that it may be somewhat repetitive to list the changes but to turn By By Group Captain Les Hakin London & South East Regional Commandant 4 Air Cadet SPRING 2015

her advice on its head and cover the things that we (YOU when I leave) must keep as guiding principles of the ACO. The first is the selection, appointment and promotion of high quality Commissioned Officers in the ACO. Without this quality, leadership will suffer and our high standards of achievement will fall away. Next is the importance in our organisation of the NCO cadre. With an approved promotion system, from Sergeant to Warrant Officer, where results and activity are rewarded, NCOs continue with the important discipline and drill aspects and dress standards throughout the ACO that are so important to an RAF sponsored organisation. Next the ACO increasingly is seen in public as the RAF Footprint and is held in high regard for this Ceremonial Role. It is important that when our parent service is engaged elsewhere, we are ready, willing and able to fill the gap. Now finally to the last thing that must stay the same is adherence to our ethos, core values and standards. It is not for nothing that they are in Air Cadet Publication No 1. Respect Self Respect. Respect for each other regardless of background and respect for authority.

Integrity Doing the right thing even when no one is looking. Service before Self Putting the ACO and others before ourselves. Excellence Always striving for continuous improvement. All of these values are underpinned by Leadership which neatly takes me back to officer selection which is important to ensure ... leadership! Well, as I come to the end of my short introduction I wish you all in the ACO the best of good fortune for the future which I know is assured. I may be leaving but to paraphrase the words in the song sung by Sting, “I’ll be watching you” albeit from the sidelines and as a supporter! n

Air Cadet News

Chinooks come home After 13 years supporting operations in Afghanistan, Royal Air Force Chinooks have left Kabul and returned home. Since the end of combat operations in Afghanistan in last October, three RAF Chinooks were retained in the country to assist British troops in non-combat roles but they have now returned home to RAF Odiham in Hampshire. The Chinook Force has flown over 41,000 hours, extracted 13,000 casualties and its crews have been awarded numerous gallantry awards, including 23 distinguished flying crosses for bravery in the air. Group Captain Richard Maddison, RAF Odiham’s Station Commander, said: “The sight of a Chinook in Afghanistan will be iconic to many that have served there, or have witnessed the events from afar. The commitment of the personnel from the Chinook Force – whether in Afghanistan or supporting from the UK and other overseas locations – has been first rate.” “We return with enormous pride at our contribution over this very testing period and wish those of the Puma Force the very best success as they continue to provide helicopter support in the country”. The Chinook aviation detachment in Kabul has handed over to the RAF Puma 2 Force from RAF Benson, whose crews will remain in Afghanistan until the mission is complete. n

Next generation of drone pilots Cadets from 2428 (Hedge End) Squadron in Southampton are being offered the chance to learn how to build, fly and race next generation drones. The pioneering new scheme has been launched by a British-owned drone consultancy group, UAViate. They are setting up a brand new academy at the Southampton air cadet squadron with the aim of developing second generation drone pilots. The community drone training programme has been set up in a bid to counteract recent negative publicity about drones and challenge public perceptions. A spokesman for UAViate said: “We are on a mission to remind Brits that drones can be incredibly useful. At the core of our strategy to combat negative press is a commitment to educating society in a positive way. “The newly commissioned Hedge End drone academy will encourage the local community to get involved and gain a better understanding of drones and their many uses.”

An academy training programme has been developed with the support of Southampton International Airport and RadioC, one of the UK’s suppliers of multicopter, drone and quadcopter parts. The curriculum will teach cadets a range of core skills including how to build and fly drones safely, how to accurately record and log flying hours, how to obey the rules of the air and how to be a responsible pilot. The ultimate aim is to enter a team into First Person View (FPV) racing events and eventually send cadets to represent the squadron at national drone racing competitions. Flight Lieutenant Lee Barfoot, Commanding Officer of 2428 Squadron, said, “We are thrilled to be working with UAViate who will provide training for our cadets which will be useful in both the services and civilian life. “It’s great that an aviation company has such an interest in the community and is actively encouraging youngsters to take an interest in drone technology.” n

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Air Cadet FEATURES

Queen gives Royal Seal of approval The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust’s new visitor and education centre in Capel-le-Ferne, Kent, received the royal seal of approval when it was officially opened by Her Majesty The Queen. Words by Mike Cremin Images by Mike Cremin, Barry Duffield & Malcolm Triggs 6 Air Cadet SPRING 2015

QUEEN GIVES ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL

The Queen, accompanied by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, followed in the footsteps of her mother, Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, who unveiled the Battle of Britain Memorial at Capel-le-Ferne on 9 July 1993. Cadets from 99 (Folkestone) and 354 (Dover) Squadrons provided the Guard of Honour for the opening of the new “Wing”. The iconic building takes its name – and its unique shape – from the wing plan of R J Mitchell’s best-known fighter, the Supermarine Spitfire. Work on The Wing began in September 2013, following a successful response to an appeal for funds launched in 2010 as part of the commemorations to mark the 70th anniversary of the Battle. The opening was performed in front of invited guests and VIPs - including the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Andrew Pulford. Her Majesty toured www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

the new building during her visit to the cliff-top site and met some of the last remaining members of The Few – the aircrew who defended Britain from invasion in 1940. Flight Lieutenant Geoffrey Mellum, 93, said: “The Wing is a great credit to all concerned. The layout is superb and the film in the museum which depicts a ‘scramble’ in 1940 is the most authentic portrayal of what went on that I’ve ever seen or heard.” Despite some atrocious Capel weather, the cadets provided the formal backdrop for this unique event during the 75th anniversary year of the Battle of Britain and were commended for their tenacity. The Guard Commander and Kent Wing Staff Officer, Flight Lieutenant Nigel Taylor, said: “For most, this was a once in a lifetime event and, in spite of the extremely poor weather and the cancellation of the fly past, the

opportunity to play a central part and at such close quarters to Her Majesty and Prince Phillip is one that all those involved will remember.” Squadron Leader Mike Cremin, the Kent Wing Project Officer for Capel, added: “A huge amount of preparatory work was carried out for this event under the most stringent security restrictions and, once again, despite the atrocious weather the cadets on duty exemplified the very best the ACO has to offer under the worst possible conditions.” Corporal Oliver Kent from 99 (Folkestone) Squadron summed up the day: “An excellent day with the Queen and guests of honour. It’s good to be an Air Cadet!” n

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Air Cadet News

Carol helps cadet reach for the stars Honorary Ambassador Group Captain Carol Vorderman flew in to Tayside Aviation to help Cadet Corporal Rebecca Dalgleish raise money for her charity hospice.

We are all in awe of Rebecca ... I think her spirit is truly amazing ... www.justgiving.com/Rebecca-Dalgleish 8 Air Cadet SPRING 2015

Rebecca, of 132 (North Berwick) Squadron, was recently diagnosed with cancer and, despite being told it was terminal, aimed to raise money for the Children’s Hospice Association Scotland. Creating a blog of her bucket list, Tayside Aviation helped get Rebecca airborne in Dundee, with Carol offering a surprise flight in her own aircraft too. Carol is now calling on all members of the Armed Forces and the general public to get behind Rebecca’s efforts to raise money for the hospice that has helped her and her family by logging on to her justgiving page www. justgiving.com/RebeccaDalgleish Carol said: “I think her spirit is truly amazing. Rebecca is completely selfless and despite being given terrible news about her illness she has set to, dug in and is absolutely determined to make a difference. We are all in awe of Rebecca – she has been gliding and flying as an air cadet and despite her failing health we hope she will get airborne again in my aircraft at Tayside Aviation.” Rebecca started out aiming to raise £5,000 for her hospice – the Children’s Hospice Association Scotland but has already raised six times that much. During her visit to Tayside Aviation, Rebecca also received two top awards, a Special Commendation from Commandant Air Cadets and the Andy Swierczek Award for her determination. Carol also presented her with a limited edition print signed by the RAF Red Arrows. Rebecca was also given a tour of the facilities and a three-aircraft flypast by the Tayside Aviation Grob

Formation Team. Rebecca has been a cadet for four years and has completed her Duke of Edinburgh Bronze and is halfway through her Silver (she just needs to complete the expedition which she missed out on last summer due to her hospitalisation). Her Commanding Officer Flt Lt Iain Edmans said: “Rebecca puts in lots of time for community events, which has resulted in a Saltire Award for completing over 100 hours of volunteering and is very committed to the squadron. She was a member of the Squadron team which won the Wing Swimming Gala in 2013 and has run 10k event to raise funds for the Sick Kids Friends’ Foundation. The latter supports the work of the Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh where her younger brother has been a patient for over 10 years. “Her news has been a shock to everyone but typical of her character, just after receiving her bad news that her illness was terminal, she immediately decided to raise money for CHAS, the Children’s Hospice Association Scotland. “Becky is the sort of cadet who stands outside all weekend doing fund raising for the Royal British Legion poppy collection and she is a stalwart - a real trooper. She had chemo and radiotherapy and was even doing her air cadet syllabus work in her hospital bed last year - she was promoted whilst in hospital. “ Rebecca has already raised more than £32,000 and it’s increasing daily but she hopes to raise this further, so that CHAS can continue to help young people with lifeshortening conditions. n

Air Cadet FEATURES

Pilots Test Motivational Flight Packages ... Two pilots from 644 VGS at RAF Syerston have taken to the skies as the first to try new motivational gliding packages, made available to the Air Cadet Organisation through a grant of £25,000 from the RAF Charitable Trust. The Trust’s donation is part of its commitment to Air Cadet gliding, with this money being put towards the specific aim of keeping staff members motivated while maintaining their skills. Flight Lieutenant Mat Faulkner and Civilian Gliding Instructor (CGI) Lewis Whitmore, both from 644 VGS, were the first two staff members to benefit from the grant, taking off from The Gliding Centre at Husbands Bosworth Airfield near Lutterworth in Leicestershire. Flt Lt Faulkner said: “I arrived mindful that I hadn’t flown for some nine months. The weather was challenging – high winds, varying cloud base and bitter cold – and the programme, including spinning and aerobatics, exciting! “I enjoyed three flights on the first day in the Puchaz, then moved to the K21 on the Sunday to disprove the theory that it wouldn’t spin, and to try some aerobatics.

“It was incredible fun, mentally challenging and a valuable learning experience. I’d like to thank the Charitable Trust for providing the opportunity and the team at the centre for their patience and skill in delivering the training.” CGI Whitmore added: “The exercises were immense fun and incredibly useful to me as a pilot, especially the spin awareness training. “That’s something we do not tackle within the Air Cadet gliding domain and understanding how a spin can occur has reinforced the reasoning behind some of our strictest flying procedures. “I would like to thank the Charitable Trust for making this amazing opportunity available to myself and other Air Cadet instructors who are, no doubt, equally as eager to return to the sky as I am. “It has made me a more aware pilot, and will augment my ability to instruct effectively once the Air Cadet gliding fleet returns to normal operations.” Back on terra firma, the two pilots were interviewed by Jim Davis from BBC Radio Leicestershire, publicising both the Air Cadets and the RAF Charitable Trust. n TOP: CGI Lewis Whitmore from 644VGS, with his instructor in the back of the glider, gets ready for take-off.

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On-Going Sponsorship For Air Cadet Magazine Read all about it! The RAF Charitable Trust has announced its continuing sponsorship of Air Cadet Magazine with a grant of £10,000 to ensure the publication brings news, features and photos to its readership for the next 12 months. The Air Cadet Organisation’s Chief of Staff Group Captain John Lawlor said: “The magazine has just celebrated its 76th year and the publication, both in printed form and the online edition, continues to be well received, with first-rate feedback. “The magazine is one of the most important information platforms in the ACO, the Cadet Forces and in Defence (youth engagement), and we are continually reviewing and improving the publication to ensure it meets the needs of its wide market audience covering everyone from cadets and their siblings to volunteers and influencers such as MPs and members of the House of Lords.” He added: “This is an exciting time for the magazine with circulation increasing from approximately 240,000 per edition to 480,000 as a result of the online viewing platform. The senior RAF leadership team and MPs have nothing but praise for the publication and, of course, each time they read the magazine they also see stories of the RAF Charitable Trust and the immense contribution that it makes to the Air Cadets. Thank you to the Trust for this most generous support of Air Cadet Magazine.” n

RAF CHARITABLE TRUST

New Air Cadet Banner Cadets from 863 (Thurston) Squadron in Suffolk are now the proud owners of a new squadron banner, thanks to a grant of £517.94 from the RAF Charitable Trust. The banner was presented and dedicated at the Squadron’s annual carol service at St Mary’s Church, Pakenham. Air Vice-Marshal The Hon David Murray CVO OBE, president of Thurston Air Cadets, presented the new banner which was then dedicated by the Reverend Ron Tuck, Wing Chaplain. The ceremony also saw eight new cadets welcomed to the squadron after completing their basic training, and saw the announcement of promotion for six other cadets. Banner bearer, Cadet Sergeant David Cobbold, 18, said: “It was a great honour to be part of this special occasion. It is very important for us to have our own banner that we can use for ceremonial parades, and all the cadets are very grateful for the Charitable Trust’s generous grant.” Squadron Commanding Officer, Flying Officer Richard Jacobs said: “The ceremony was a marvellous occasion to mark our new cadets’ entry to the Squadron and the promotions of our older cadets. We felt particularly honoured to have AVM David Murray join us for the evening, and are most grateful for the generous donation from the Charitable Trust for the new banner.” Jamie Gwatkin, Treasurer of the Civilian Committee, said: “This was a very special night which will be in our memories for a long time. Thank you to all at the Charitable Trust for making this possible.” n www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

Summit success An expedition organized by the National Air Cadets Adventure Training Centre (NACATC) in Windermere headed for the hills early in March for five days’ winter mountain training in the Scottish Highlands. Helped by a £400 grant from the RAF Charitable Trust, Ex Winter Cairngorm 2015 saw a party of 16 Cadet Force Adult Volunteer Staff participate in the Joint Services Winter Mountain Foundation (WMF) and Winter Climbing Foundation (WCF) courses. A number of the group also used the expedition to develop their experience as they work towards the Winter Mountain Leader Award. The course, based at Feshiebridge lodge near Aviemore, saw participants training with ice axes and crampons, using avalanche transceivers, practicing navigation in white-out conditions, spending a night in a snow hole, building belays and looking at rescue strategies. Andy Reeve, Chief Instructor and Manager of NACATC, said: “The Charitable Trust grant enabled us to fund the cost of a very experienced instructor, who provided direct training to one of our three groups, and also advised and mentored the staff leading the other two groups. It also funded the avalanche transceivers, one of the latest developments in mountain safety. We would like to thank the Charitable Trust for its support of this expedition and the opportunities it provided to develop the knowledge and skills of the ACO staff.” Amanda Butcher, Director of the RAF Charitable Trust, said: “This expedition involved instructors and officers from across the UK, and the Trustees were delighted to support a project that will open new opportunities for cadets in all regions.” n

Venture, Adventure Air Cadets from three areas are bound for adventure after receiving grants totalling £5,550 from the RAF Charitable Trust. Twenty-five Cadets from Devon & Somerset Wing will be sea kayaking in Cornwall, as a training exercise for future kayaking expeditions in Norway. Eleven over-18s from across the UK will be managing a 72ft sail training vessel off the West coast of Scotland and the Western Isles in August. And 10 Cadets from 1998 (West Cross) Squadron from Swansea have returned after they took part in a seven-day adventure dog sledding north of the Arctic Circle. Look out for photos and reports in future editions. n 11

Air Cadet FEATURES

Lights ... Camera ... Action ! Air Cadet History is brought to life ... As the first copies of the first ever ACO History DVD start to be delivered, ‘Air Cadet’ takes a peak behind the scenes of this landmark film designed to bring Air Cadet history to life ... By Squadron Leader Mark Trevena 12 Air Cadet SPRING 2015

Lights ... Camera ... Action !

Did You Know?

1920s Air Cadets can trace their history back to the 1920s when the Bournemouth Young Airman’s League was formed on the South coast. 1930s The Air Defence Cadet Corps was founded by Air Commodore Adrian Chamier a retired RAF pilot who had seen service in WWI. 1940s The first female Air Cadets were part of the Women’s Junior Air Corps which was formed in 1940. Cadets flew with the Air Transport Auxiliary during World War II, helping as Pilots Assistants to deliver front line combat aircraft to the Royal Air Force. 1950s During Cold War National Service youngsters who had been in the Air Cadets could insist on joining the Royal Air Force. 1960s The Air Cadet glider fleet set many records including a two seat, open cockpit canvas Sedbergh glider flight that set several records including a height gain of 15,240 feet – almost 3 miles!

The two DVD set consists of an hour-long documentary together with a selection of archive Air Cadet recruitment films, spanning more than 40 years, from 1941 to 1989, as well as the Chipmunk Air Experience Film. More than 3,000 copies of the film, designed for training and engagement purposes, will be distributed to all ATC and Combined Cadet Force (RAF) formations. Project Officer for the DVD, Squadron Leader Mark Trevena, takes up the story. “Back in 2011, we started looking at making a short film showing the AC70 fly past at RIAT,” he explained. “Working with the Headquarters Air Cadets’ media team, we could see there was a much larger story that needed to be told and the scope of the filming was quickly extended to cover the wider history of the Air Cadets.” It was a mammoth project but, from the outset, help was on hand from the RAF Air Command Video Section, who assisted with filming and post production. A host of historical film and photographic material was provided by the RAF Museum, Imperial War Museum, the British Defence Film Library, British Pathe and Solent Sky who opened up their vaults. A wealth of other material was also sourced from individuals, ATC Squadrons, CCF (RAF) Sections and the Girls Venture Corps to give the film a national look and feel. Within a few weeks the production went from being a short film to a feature length production, telling the story of the ATC and CCF (RAF). www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

1970s The uniform was updated from the WWII style “Hairy Mary” jackets to the ubiquitous “woolly pully”. 1980s Although girls could join the Air Cadets from the early 1980s the Girls Venture Corps is still very active. 1990s The glider fleet was modernised to become a totally glass reinforced plastic fleet. 2000s Modernisation swept across the Air Cadets – an updated training syllabus, Regional Activity Centres, Junior Leaders and the Qualified Aerospace Instructors’ Course. Today Since the very beginning the AEF role has been fulfilled by a wide variety of aircraft - Oxford, Dominie, Anson, Tigermoth, Chipmunk, Beagle, Bulldog and Tutor. 13

Air Cadet FEATURES

Ex-cadets from across the decades ... tell their stories to bring the archive to life.

Did You Know?

British Defence Film Library BDFL has an extensive library of approximately 3,500 titles, representing over 40 years’ worth of material. All ACO units are able to request training material from BDFL and are encouraged to set up an account with BDFL for free loans of training material by contacting [email protected]

Free BDFL DVDs for Air Cadet Training AF7996 RAF Past & Present AF010/00 Tutor Passenger Brief C1583-5 Map Reading - Pts 1-4 AF4053/07 Horizons Unlimited (Vigilant Gliding) C1666-8 Map Reading - Pts 5-7 AF7502-3 Secondary Radar Pt 1-2 AF7780-5 Theory of Flight AF8391 Low Level Navigation AF6619 Jet Engine Intro C1725 Fieldcraft AF6626 Turbo jet Propulsion AF7820/1 Aircraft Marshalling

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Squadron Leader Trevena said: “With the main historical material in place we started looking for ex-cadets from across the decades to come forward to tell their stories to bring the archive to life. “When we visited a number of these veterans in person it became obvious that we should interview them for the film so that they could tell the story of the Air Cadets in their own words”. At this stage some additional filming was set up to show modern classroom training, the Qualified Aerospace Instructors’ Course (QAiC), a Foot Drill Sequence and the use of Flight Simulators on Squadrons. Once the many hours of material were compiled, it was over to SAC Ben Lees of the Air Command Video Section set to work editing the material to the script and voiceover. Each draft of the script and edit was reviewed by a panel of experts to make sure the story remained accurate and interesting. Squadron Leader Trevena explained: “We worked to an approved script that ended up running to over 30 pages with detailed instructions for interviews,

graphics, and music which was continuously updated during the postproduction phase”. In late 2013 the last sections to be included were a selection of interviews with modern day cadets which were interspersed with quotes from veterans in the final section of the film to signify the passing on of the Air Cadet Organisation to the ‘next generation.’ After the final editing was completed the production was handed over to the British Defence Film Library (BDFL) for the duplication and distribution of over 3,000 copies in the first run. As well as managing the project logistics, BDFL will also create an archive from the various footage which will, in time, be passed on to the Imperial War Museum for long term storage. The DVD set is about to be distributed to all Squadrons, Detached Flights and RAF (CCF) Sections for use as part of cadet training. In addition to the main documentary, a second DVD also includes a shorter version for Junior Cadet training and a selection of bonus material. n

AIR CADET FEATURES

www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

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Air Cadet FEATURES

Do Something Different This Summer ... “Not a day goes by where I don’t use the skills I learned on my Outward Bound course.” Those are the words of Cadet Corporal Sarah Osho of 1475 (Dulwich) Squadron.

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DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT THIS SUMMER

Sarah experienced a once in a lifetime Outward Bound summer programme in the Lake District, taking part in the 19day Ultimate Expedition. She credits the programme with helping her to grow as a person, whilst making a real difference to her personal life and her role as a corporal. Outward Bound programmes have long been associated with the Armed Services. From humble beginnings of training merchant seamen for World War Two, the Outward Bound experience has evolved to be a powerful and relevant experience to young people both in and outside of the Forces. For air cadets like Sarah, the likes of the Ultimate Expedition offers a unique opportunity to broaden her Adventurous Training experience. An unparalleled adventure Even for those who have done a number of outdoor education courses, an Outward Bound programme offers a truly exceptional level of adventure, challenge and learning, as Cadet Corporal Susannah Bath describes. “I’ve taken part in outdoor courses in the past but none will be as memorable as my Outward Bound course. Equally, none have given me the sense of having developed quite so much in a short space of time. I’m so proud of what I achieved.” Like the 25,000 other participants that The Outward Bound Trust works with each year, Susannah’s pride stems from her completion of a highly challenging journey in the wilderness, which forms the basis of each and every Outward Bound programme. From leading an ascent of the UK’s highest mountains, to managing a kayak expedition around uninhabited Scottish islands, the adventure takes place on land and on the water with participants taking real responsibility for the success of their journey. In fact, 2013 saw one Outward Bound group who took charge of covering more than 13,000 metres of ascent - that’s higher than Everest - during their 3 week course. With venues in Snowdonia, the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands, adventures don’t come much wilder than this. www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

... None have given me the sense of having developed quite so much in a short space of time. I’m so proud of what I achieved ... Skills for the future As those with AT experience will know, experiencing genuine challenge can also lead to the building of life-long, careermaking skills. “I’m now much more confident as a person,” comments Cadet Corporal Ramsey Montano on his Outward Bound course, “Having to lead a group of individuals who were much more experienced than me was tough but it meant I developed real leadership skills.” To make those new skills transferable to everyday life, Outward Bound instructors are the lynchpin of the course. Oft-quoted as participants’ favourite element of their course, an Outward Bound instructor is unlike any other. They not only hold the technical skills to take their group into the UK’s most inaccessible environments, they have the academic qualifications to ensure that the learning sticks and makes an impact back at school or work.

Accessible to all Cadets can also take advantage of The Trust’s bursary scheme, which could support them with up to 50% funding towards a course. As a UK charity, The Trust engages with donors and sponsors to be able to offer young people an experience of a lifetime. For the remaining cost, The Trust offers dedicated fundraising support and advice, with guides to help you to cover the course fee without spending a penny. To book an Outward Bound programme this summer visit outwardbound.org.uk or call 01931 740000 n

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Air Cadet News

Makeover for the Reds The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, has revealed a new Union flag-inspired design on its worldfamous jets. Tailfins on the team’s Hawk aircraft have received the fresh look, ready for the new display season where they will be seen by millions of people both at home and overseas. Complete with flowing red, white and blue lines, the design emphasises the team’s important role as a global ambassador for the United Kingdom and Royal Air Force. Squadron Leader David Montenegro, (pictured) who will lead the team as Red 1 for the first time in 2015, said: “The new tailfin perfectly illustrates the spirit of the Red Arrows – representing the UK, our engineering excellence and the continuing capability of the Royal Air Force to protect our skies.” Last year, the Red Arrows celebrated their 50th season, performing more than

Tried and tested

80 displays across the UK and in nine other countries. The milestone was marked with a special, one-off tailfin design on its aircraft, replacing the familiar three-stripe livery the team’s jets had flown since the 1960s. Now, instead of returning to this original paint scheme following the season-long 50th pattern, the new Union flag design has been adopted for the future. All of the team’s British-built, BAe Systems Hawk jets will be receiving the new livery, with their distinctive fuselages retaining red and white colours. n

Competition Cadet Direct, one of the leading UK suppliers of military clothing, footwear and equipment, has teamed up with Air Cadet magazine to run a special competition exclusively for readers of the magazine. One lucky reader could win £100 worth of Cadet Direct gift vouchers by simply answering the question below and then emailing your answer, together with your name, address and squadron to competitions@ cadetdirect.com All entries should arrive no later than Friday, 26 June. The first correct entry drawn at random will the receive the prize of £100 of Cadet Direct gift vouchers. n

Question: What does the abbreviation QAIC mean?

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Wellington College CCF cadets put their knowledge of physics to the test. With a range of material supplied, cadets were given the task of creating a way to drop an egg from a second storey window on to a concrete floor with minimal damage in just 60 minutes. The exercise, which was marked and assessed, was inspired by munition drops where timing and knowledge is essential for the supplies to parachute safely to the ground. n

Trio triumph Three cadets from Wymondham College CCF in Norfolk recently travelled to Sheffield to compete in the prestigious British Schools Judo Championships. Cadets Amy Mollan, Johanna Mollan and Emma Merryweather, who all train at Wymondham Judo Club competed in the Championships that attracted over 500 entrants from all over the UK. Johanna Mollan and Emma Merryweather fought in the Under 48kg and Under 52kg groups respectively and both won a bronze medal, having fought extremely well. Amy Mollan, following a convincing performance, and one of her best throws and wins to date, was awarded the gold medal for the Under 44kg group. The girls are now focusing on a tournament in Ede, The Netherlands, next month with the British Judo Association Eastern Area Squad. n

High flier Eighteen-year-old Cadet Sergeant Jack Savage from 42F (King’s Lynn) Squadron has gained his ‘Wings’, following a course run by Tayside Aviation at Dundee Airport. Jack went solo in a Grob Tutor aircraft after only eight hours’ intensive training. He was presented with his Air Cadet Pilot Scheme certificate by Wing Commander David Miller, Norfolk & Suffolk Wing’s Commanding Officer, during a special ceremony at the King’s Lynn Squadron. n

AIR CADET Air Cadet FEATURES News

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Air Cadet FEATURES

... You meet high calibre cadets from across the UK. You learn a lot about yourself too.

Stepping Up If you’re interested in aerospace and relish a challenge, then the Qualified Aerospace Instructors’ Course could be for you. It’s tough - demanding real commitment and determination. Do you have what it takes? Since the Qualified Aerospace Instructors’ Course was introduced more than six years ago to develop senior cadets’ skills in leadership, teamwork, communication as well teaching a range of aviation-related subjects over nine months, it has earned the reputation of being one of the Air Cadet Organisation’s premier courses. The course is not for the faint hearted. It places a heavy expectation on students Words & images by

Philip Jones

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from the outset, commitment to every training weekend, periodic examinations and a reasonable amount of work to complete in between weekends. The rewards however are there for the taking, including an Institute of Leadership and Management Level 2 award and formal recognition by one of the world’s major aerospace bodies, the Royal Aeronautical Society. All those who have successfully completed the course, that runs from September to the following Easter, say it

is one of the most personally rewarding activities they have ever undertaken. The course was first formed in September 2008 when 20 high calibre cadets from across North Region were selected to join QAIC 1, operating from the Regional Activity Centre at RAF Linton on Ouse. The course was an outstanding success and in 2011 a second centre opened at MoD Boscombe Down. Now both centres run in parallel, operating identical programmes over the same eight training weekends. Opportunity It is a long course, offering candidates the opportunity to learn many aviationrelated subjects to a higher level than the normal syllabus as well as developing their leadership skills, confidence in public speaking, instructional abilities and other talents. Qualified Aerospace Instructor standards are high: this is no attendance

STEPPING UP ...

... course. This is a hard won award gained after many months of sustained effort. The next course starts in September 2015 and to be considered you must: • Be at least 16 years old. • Master Cadet (or Staff Cadet pt 1 on the old syllabus). • Grade C GCSE (or equivalent) in Maths and English (actual or predicted). • Able to access broadband at home and have an e-mail address. • Have a keen interest in aerospace subjects. • Be willing to use your QAI qualifications to instruct across a range of venues. • Able to meet the £195 course fee from personal or squadron funds. If you pass selection you will be committed to a course that runs for a series of weekends with varying degrees of work to be done in between www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

the training sessions. As the course develops, your syndicate will work on its presentation that will, in the graduation week, be given to an audience including very knowledgeable senior Royal Air Force officers and others who will spot any “bluffing” on your part. Teamwork All participants are known throughout the course by a “call sign” that they choose themselves. Each training location is split into five syndicates named after current RAF aircraft and it is in those syndicates that cadets will work to prepare their presentations, develop teamwork plus their public

speaking and project management skills. It is in between the programmed weekends that cadets will work within their syndicates to research and hone their presentations (hence the need for e-mail and internet access). Cadets use flight simulators, wind tunnels, Air Traffic Control sims and other facilities to complete their training. The flight sim kit is not used as a toy. Students prepare complete flight plans and then fly the sorties as if they were real. As each location operates the same timetable cadets are able to contact their opposite numbers via an internet link and exchange stories before they meet for the graduation camp. 21

Air Cadet FEATURES

At the beginning of the graduation week cadets make high-level visits, currently to Cranfield University (south) and BAe Systems’ Typhoon factory at Warton (north). Those cadets who successfully complete the course dine-out in the Officers’ Mess at RAF Linton-on-Ouse and are then eligible to wear the blue lanyard. One cadet who completed the course last year was Cadet Warrant Officer Sam Henson from 220 (St Albans) Squadron. His Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutenant Ben Wilkinson, said: “CWO Henson is one of two cadets from this squadron to have completed the QAIC course – both found the training challenging but very interesting and fulfilling. “As well as gaining personally, their attendance on the course has also benefitted the squadron as it has led to a noticeable improvement in the quality of teaching of the academic subjects and levels of engagement amongst all the cadets.” As you would expect on a course such as this, the instructors are mostly professionals in their field. QAIC Course Director at Boscombe Down, Squadron Leader Robert Westerberg, said: “The great thing about this course is that despite the quality of the cadets that apply they are still willing to work very hard over a long period as they see the benefit of the course to themselves and the wider ACO.” Cadet Sergeant Hitesh Kumar from 338 (West Ham) Squadron said: “One of the reasons I applied for this course was my interest in Aeronautical Engineering. It 22 Air Cadet SPRING 2015

also helps my leadership and instructor skills and lets me use my maths and science knowledge. The other good thing I found after starting the course was the people; you meet high calibre cadets from across the UK. You learn a lot about yourself too.” Proud Wing Commander Ian Revell, Officer Commanding QAIC, said: “I am proud of the role we serve within the ATC and the quality of the training we provide. “Through our presence at two sites in the UK we have the ability to reach the vast majority of the cadets in the Corps, and be able to offer a high calibre of aerospace instruction to cadets who, for the most part, are seeking a career in the aerospace industry. “We are fortunate to be supported by a variety of aerospace organisations from both the military and civilian worlds, and it is through initiatives such as this that the Corps is genuinely putting the “air” back into the “Training” of the ATC.” So when you have completed the course what can you do? Well, you can be a great benefit to your squadron by helping to run events at your Regional Activity Centre, you can work at Wing or Regional level on similar activities and some QAI cadets help with the

Engagement Platforms at events such as the Royal International Air Tattoo where they become very much the face of the ACO. Or, in some cases, you can return and help the next generation(s) of cadets maximise their potential. One such person is Officer Cadet Felicia Doubell from 185 (Batley) Squadron. She was on the third QAIC Course at RAF Linton-onOuse. “When QAIC (Boscombe) opened I came down to help. The course developed me so much as a person that I wanted to give something back and joined to assist. When I became a member of adult staff I carried on because I really, really love the course and am happy to help develop the later generations of cadets.” Additionally, some cadets are invited to return to act as mentors for the next courses. These QAI cadets help with the running of the course and assist anyone in need of a little bit of extra help. However, it is not just ATC staff who come back. At last year’s graduation week Air Vice Marshal Martin Clark, Director (Technical) Military Aviation Authority, said how impressed he was with the standard of the cadets’ presentations and expressed an interest in getting involved. True to his word, he is now assisting cadets on the course. n

So, if you have an interest in aviation and wish to take it further within the Air Cadets visit http://www.qaic.org and see if you have what it takes to join QAIC. Applications for QAIC 8 will commence in June and will be notified through Wings and squadrons. n

AIR CADET Air Cadet FEATURES News

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Air Cadet News

Cadets Support Opening Of Spitfire Gallery

Volunteering in Goa

Four cadets from 1289 (Stratford upon Avon) Squadron were special guests at the VIP launch of the brand new Spitfire Gallery at Birmingham’s Thinktank Museum. The four cadets, representing the ATC at the official launch event, were thrilled with the opportunity to talk to former Spitfire pilots Sid Cleaver and Mike Horsfall, as well as former Castle Bromwich Spitfire factory workers. The new gallery tells the story of the Spitfire – the iconic aircraft that played a key role in the Second World War – and its links with the city of Birmingham. More than 10,000 Spitfires were produced at Birmingham’s Castle Bromwich factory from 1940 to 1945. Pilot Officer Dave Ariss, Officer Commanding 1289 Squadron, said: “This is a rare and humbling opportunity for our cadets to meet some of the Few who flew the Spitfire and also those who worked to manufacture the aircraft at the Castle Bromwich factory. “It has been a fantastic experience to learn about the Spitfire’s design and role in the Second World War and the life experiences of the pilots and factory workers involved.” n

Goa, India’s smallest state and a former Portugese outpost for almost 500 years, attracts millions of visitors each year, including Cadet Warrant Officer Kynan Fletcher, the Station Commander’s Cadet for RAF Northolt, who has just returned from a month’s volunteering there. Kynan, who planned the trip to develop his understanding of the language and culture of India, gave presentations and lectures to more than 100 college and university students in Dhempe College of Arts and Science in Goa. Kynan, from 1349 (Woking) Squadron said: “Volunteering at the university allowed me to connect with young people of a similar age. I was able to lecture about some of the same things that I do at my squadron, including a series of leadership-based presentations. “What really made this something special was that the students I was working with lead such a vastly different life to those that I teach back at home, they face very different challenges and so have a very unique perspective on everything that we discussed,” he added. The open floor presentations allowed students to add and compare personal experiences and was open to a diverse

AVM Sean Reynolds presents Kynan with his promotion to CWO

range of students from both the college and university. “Students connected with and understood this topic quickly,” said Kashinath Hiremath, a Botany Professor and the liaison professor at the college who organised the sessions, “There were many people present and even all of the professors themselves in attendance learnt a lot from these talks." n

Spitfire Run To commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain, the Royal Air Force Museum London has launched the Spitfire 10K Run. Taking place on Sunday, 6th September 2015, the race begins in the shadow of one of the RAF Museum’s Spitfires and takes you on a special journey, including a section through the bomber hangar and around the iconic Lancaster, before leaving the museum for two loops of a flat road course. Your finish will be commemorated with an exclusive Spitfire medal. n 24 Air Cadet SPRING 2015

Taking off ... Cromer air cadets will be flying high soon, thanks to a £3,500 grant from North Norfolk District Council’s Big Society Fund. The money will be used to help build a state-of-the-art flight simulator for use by cadets from 1895 (Cromer) Squadron as well as other local youth groups. Although based at the headquarters of the Cromer Squadron, the simulator will be fully transportable so it can be made available to other local squadrons, schools and youth groups. Squadron boss, Flight Lieutenant Brian Keerie, said: “Having Norwich Airport and other aviation- based

career possibilities in the region has given us the incentive to launch this project for the local community. It is early days in the project as yet but plans are in place and it will be something that all the local cadets can look forward to.” n

Air Cadet News

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Air Cadet News

Dacre winners The lucky recipients of the Dacre Sword and Brooch will be revealed at this year’s annual ACO Convention this month. All 12 Regional finalists have been invited to RAF Cranwell at the end of May where they will have the chance to bid for a place on a camp with the Hong Kong Air Cadet Corps. This is an exciting new initiative, developed after the Commandant’s visit to Hong Kong last year. n

Drop zone The third Exercise Easter Drop got off to a flying a start at the Army Parachute Association Netheravon drop zone, with 15 cadets and three members of staff from Bristol & Gloucestershire Wing completing their Static Line First Jump Course. The weekend course began with ground school training, followed by lots and lots of practice and a final written test. The next day the cadets walked out to the Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft ready for their first jump. Sergeant Kerry McClintock from 2392 (Thornbury) Squadron said: “The cadets left the aircraft with looks of fear and landed with smiles brimming from ear to ear as they let their accomplishments sink in. “To those who missed out on attending this year, keep an eye out for next year’s bigger and better course which will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of the ATC by getting 75 members of the ATC through the Static Line First Jump Course in a week! I look forward to seeing you there.” n

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Cadets compete for South Africa expedition prize A group of 11 air cadets are competing with 24 others to be chosen as one of nine national finalists in the CVQO Duke of Westminster Award at a challenging four-day selection event in Somerset. These nine national finalists will win a place on an educational two-week expedition to South Africa in July and one will be crowned the overall CVQO Duke of Westminster Award winner for 2015 at the House of Lords ceremony on 30 June. The 11 are: Lucy Gardiner, 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron; Stephen Isherwood, 440 (1st Manx) Sqn; Stephen Postle, 2518 (Flint) Sqn; Callum Thompson, 70 (Croft and Culcheth); Rosina Chester, 2524 (Oakington) Sqn; James Clarke, 888 (Oldbury) Sqn; Megan Hansen, 2443 (Okehampton); Emily Bethell, 236 (Bollington) Sqn; Theodore Leigh, 46F (Kensington) Sqn; Grace McDonald, 209 (West Bridgford) Sqn and James Van Neste, 7 Overseas (Jersey) Sqn. The candidates have all been nominated by their cadet units in recognition of their desire to help those around them, overcome personal challenges or demonstrate community spirit. The four-day event in the Quantock Hills includes physical team-building tasks, challenging group debates, strategy tests and interviews. All of these are designed to test the cadets’ leadership and management skills in a variety of situations. Additionally, as part of the four-day event, the cadets will complete an ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management) Level 3 in Leadership

and Management, allowing them to demonstrate their skills to employers and higher education institutions. The annual event has been organised by education charity CVQO and is taking place at Outposts Adventure Specialists, near Taunton in Somerset. Guy Horridge, chief executive of CVQO, said: “The CVQO Duke of Westminster Award is not just about being a great cadet; it is about recognising and rewarding young people who become valuable members of their communities and who show a willingness selflessly to help others. CVQO is also looking for those young people who are working hard to achieve their aspirations, perhaps overcoming personal challenges and difficulties that life has thrown at them, building a resilience and determination to succeed. This year’s standard has been extremely high and it will be particularly difficult to select those worthy of a place in the final nine, let alone the overall winner.” Those lucky enough to win a place on the South Africa expedition will be working with local schools, taking part in an environmental awareness programme and learning about the country’s history. n

Air Cadet News

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DUKE OF EDINBURGH

The Air Cadet Organisation is just one of more than 900 organisations that have secured a licence to run the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, helping an incredible, recordbreaking 108,288 young people achieve their Bronze, Silver or Gold Awards last year.

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Shaping the future

SHAPING THE FUTURE

As the DofE approaches its 60th anniversary next year, this growth is testament to its relevance to young people today. The employability benefits of the programme have never been so valuable as more young people compete to secure a job; being able to demonstrate skills beyond academic results that are sought-after in the workplace, such as communication, team-working, commitment and drive, helps DofE Award holders stand out from the crowd. The DofE is on course to realise its ambition of 300,000 young people starting their DofE each year by 2016. Continued expansion of Licensed Organisations and centres, and the recruitment of volunteers to sustain this, will positively shape the futures of more young people, support local communities and contribute to a better society at large. Every organisation that offers the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award does so under a Licence Agreement and the ATC is no different. This Licence is reviewed every three years and recently the ATC underwent this review. In addition to confirming that every cadet will be given the opportunity to participate in the DofE, the Corps also signed up to some Service Level Agreements. Wing Commander Helen Gerrish, the Corps DofE Development Officer, explains: 1. A participant will be entered on eDofE no later than one month after paying their enrolment fee. Who is responsible for this? • The Squadron DofE Leader who takes the money and enrolment form. • The Squadron Adjutant who passes the payment and PPR1 to the Wing HQ. • The nominated person at Wing HQ who enters the participant’s details.

The status of the participant will show as ‘new’ on eDofE and by logging on regularly, the Squadron DofE Leader will be able to monitor when the record appears. 2. Squadron DofE Leaders will ensure that participants enter their personal details within one month of receiving the e-mail to say they are registered. Who is responsible for this? • The Squadron DofE Leader. • The Wing DofE Officer who should be checking that accounts are not in the ‘new’ status for more than one month. The leader will get a message to tell them a participant has been registered and will need to ensure the participant logs on with their personal details. Once this has been done, the participant’s activity on eDofE should be monitored. 3. On completion of a level, the Verifying Officer will approve the Award within one month of the Award being submitted for approval. Who is responsible for this? • The Verifying Officer (Wing or Regional DofE Officer). • The Squadron DofE Leader who should be checking that this has been done. • The Corps Development Officer who checks the Gold Awards.

Who is responsible for this? • The HQ responsible for issuing certificates. • The Verifying Officer who should be checking that delays do not occur. • The Squadron DofE Leader who should ensure that the cadet receives his/ her certificate. Verifying Officers need to ensure their respective HQs are aware of the SLA and that certificates are sent out promptly. By constantly monitoring eDofE, a Leader can interrogate the system and check the status of their participants. If messages are acted upon promptly, there should be no ‘new’ participants. ‘Active’ participants should be checked for progress through the section. ‘Inactive’ participants need looking at urgently as more help and interaction may be necessary. If the cadet has left the Corps, the record should be archived. eDofE enables us to see at an instant what is happening, and if we use the system intelligently, we can increase the number of awards that are gained, and ensure that those who start their DofE actually complete and achieve the award. n

When the Award has been approved, the leader will get a message confirming this, but if nothing is received within a month, they should be contacting the Verifying Officer. 4. Certificates will be issued within one month of verification of the Award (with the exception of Gold Awards where these are issued by DofE HQ).

Participation Place Refunds Did you know that every cadet who paid for a participation place after 1 August 2013 can claim a refund on completion of their Award? See SharePoint at HQAC/ACO Document Library/Activities/Duke of Edinburgh/Policy Documents for full details. n www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

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Air Cadet News

Junior Leaders boost charity fund

‘Outstanding’ cadets honoured Cadets from 47F (Grantham) Squadron has been named as the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund’s ATC Squadron of the Year, in recognition of its ‘outstanding’ support of the charity. Representatives from the squadron joined other donors and volunteers at a special awards ceremony held at the Victory Services Club in London. The recipients were joined at the event by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Andrew Pulford and Lady Pulford. This is the third year that the RAF Benevolent Fund has recognised the remarkable contributions made by a few of the dedicated individuals, stations, and corporate partners who support the charity each year. Mike Neville, Fundraising Director at the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “Supporters and fundraisers are vital to the work the RAF Benevolent Fund does. Without them we simply could not fulfil our pledge to help members of the RAF community overcome many different challenges. We are indebted to all of our amazing supporters, and our award winners in particular, for their hard work and effort on behalf of the charity.” Officer Commanding 47(F) Flight Lieutenant Paul James said: “This award is for every member of the squadron. It was such a surprise to win this award as we didn’t even know we had been nominated. We all have a great time supporting the RAFBF and they always make sure our cadets are looked after at any event they attend or take part in. We shall continue to support the RAFBF in the best way we can and thank them for this award.” n 30 Air Cadet SPRING 2015

The Air Cadet Junior Leaders on this year’s course have raised an incredible £24,500 for the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation. The Foundation was set up to honour the life of Royal Marine and ex-air cadet Lieutenant John ‘JT’ Thornton who was tragically killed in southern Afghanistan on 30th March 2008. As part of the JL course, the Junior Leaders are tasked with planning, organising and implementing a fundraising activity or event for the Foundation. The Junior Leaders on Course XVI organised a whole range of fundraising events and challenges from skydives, half marathons, Coast to Coast cycles and even a unicycle over the Forth Bridge. Pete and Linda Thornton, who travelled to RAF Honington to attend the JLs’ Graduation Dinner, said: “The JTYAF is totally overwhelmed by the support of these remarkable young people. “Their commitment to John’s Foundation and the support and

encouragement that they provide is nothing short of inspiring. This is an incredible amount which will make a massive difference to the opportunities that the charity can provide for young people in the coming year.” Some of those young people who will benefit are the Junior Leaders themselves. The JTYAF is funding an expedition to Ghana for the Qualified Junior Leaders – an amazing opportunity to develop their leadership skills in an unique and challenging environment. The cadets will work alongside their Ghanaian counterparts and complete a jungle leadership course at the Ghanaian Jungle Warfare School. They will also take part in a community project, helping to refurbish a school. The lucky cadets travelling to Ghana are:-Daniel Snelson, Lucinda Conder, Amelia Luddington, Samuel McSevich, Benjamin Powell, Wellington Saikat, Megan Todd, Jack Webb-Macleod and William Case-Edwards. n

Squadron recognised The first new Air Cadet unit in London for more than 40 years, 31 (Tower Hamlets) Squadron has been recognised for their innovative approach to training young people by Prime Minister David Cameron with a Big Society Award. Over 200 cadets have had the chance to experience flying, go on expeditions across the UK and overseas and develop their leadership and team working skills while gaining recognised qualifications. Since its formation in August 2011 the Squadron has helped over 130 cadets earn a First Aid qualification and over 100 cadets have demonstrated their understanding of flight, mechanics and navigation, earning prestigious classification badges, which have led towards a BTEC Diploma in Aviation Studies. Prime Minister David Cameron said: “The Tower Hamlets Air Cadet unit is giving young people wings. As a result of the hard work of everyone involved, hundreds of young people have had the opportunity to take part in expeditions at home and abroad, to gain new qualifications and even learn how to fly. I’m delighted to name the unit Big Society Award winners.” Officer Commanding 31 (Tower Hamlets) Squadron, Flight Lieutenant Rex Nicholls, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised by the Prime Minister, and it is an honour for the Squadron to receive the Big Society Award. “Our staff team is made up entirely of volunteers so it is a tribute to the huge investment of time and energy that they make in our local community that allows us to provide the opportunities we do in Tower Hamlets. We work with many young people from a whole range of backgrounds, and for a lot of them, we can give them the life opportunities that they would not otherwise encounter.” n

Air Cadet News

Great Reception For Trust’s New Radio Grant Air Cadets have given a great reception to the news of a grant of £11,542.85 from the RAF Charitable Trust, to enable them to buy modern lightweight handheld radios and accessories. The grant will pay for a stock of 100 radio units which will be available for use by Cadets at the Royal International Air Tattoo, RAF Open Days and Flying Displays and functions such as City Tattoos. The equipment will also be used for regional and national radio communications courses, and for the annual Junior Leaders Course. It’s estimated that over 750 cadets and staff will benefit from this equipment each year. Flt Lt David Pink, Corps Radio Officer (Designate), said: “With this award, the Trustees have enabled the Training Programme in Leadership to advance to a more realistic level, while the support offered by the ACO to the Air Tattoo will continue to be managed to a high proficiency with more modern equipment. “When not in use at RIAT or on the training programme, the radios will be available for use by Wings and Squadrons who can bid for their allocation to an event. The robustness and modernity of these sets will make the radios a training resource taking the ACO forward for some years to come.” n

Cadets boost fund Cadets and staff from 2004 (Ballynahinch) Squadron recently took part in a major military exhibition in Ballynahinch that generated more than £3,300 for the town’s war memorial restoration fund. Alongside displays from local schools and the North Irish Horse Regiment, the Ballynahinch cadets staffed a World War Two display that included posters and albums of original press cuttings describing the ATC and the RAF in Northern Ireland during the war years. n www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

Warbirds Gather At Riat A mass flypast of warbirds will form the centrepiece of official commemorations marking the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain at this summer’s RIAT. Featuring around 20 vintage aircraft, including some of the most exceptional historic aircraft flying in the UK today, the tribute forms part of the Air Tattoo’s broader theme Securing the Skies - Past, Present & Future. Confirmed at present as taking part are: a Bristol Blenheim, five Hawker Hurricanes, 12 Supermarine Spitfires (including a naval Seafire) and a Hispano Buchón to depict the Messerschmitt Bf 109. A number of other aircraft are still to be confirmed. The Blenheim, operated by the Aircraft Restoration Company at Duxford, is the world’s sole airworthy example of this significant World War Two type. It returned to flight last November after repairs and reconfiguration lasting 11 years. Blenheims made the first RAF bombing raid against Germany during World War Two, and in 1940 were active extensively in both the fighter and bomber roles. Among the other aircraft involved will be four that were actually operational during 1940. Peter Vacher’s Hurricane I flew 49 sorties and shot down five enemy aircraft during its time on No 605 Squadron; the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Spitfire IIa was with No 266 Squadron; Aircraft Restoration Companyoperated Spitfire Ia P9374 force-landed on a northern French beach while flying with No 92 Squadron in May 1940; and, also from the ARC stable, Spitfire Ia N3200 - then of No 19 Squadron - did likewise just a few days later while covering the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk. Accompanying these will be a range of other Hurricanes and Spitfires from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and civilian operators, several of them combat veterans from later in the war. Air Tattoo Chief Executive Andy Armstrong said: “The sight of so many historic Battle of Britain-era aircraft in formation is sure to be a highlight of this year’s Air Tattoo, and a memorable contribution to this year’s commemorations.” n 31

Air Cadet FEATURES

CCF battle for Top trophy More than 150 cadets from all over the UK headed to RAF Halton for the final of the hugely prestigious Air Squadron Trophy competition. All the cadets pushed themselves to achieve in this the most sought - after competition available to RAF Sections of the Combined Cadet Force ...

Words & images by

Philip Jones

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Every CCF in the British Isles with an RAF Section – that’s more than 200 Sections - is eligible to enter with regional heats deciding who should progress to the Nationals. Teams of 13 cadets drawn from all age groups compete in a round robin of activities that include – amongst others - RAF Knowledge, Drill and Uniform, Shooting and a Multi-Stage Fitness Test.The first and second placed teams from each of the six Regions qualify for the national finals held at RAF Halton each year. The final is fiercely competitive. One day for the cadets to prove their skills in eight disciplines under the watchful gaze of not only expert judges but also this year too of the Commandant Air Cadets, Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty. Debut In addition to the competing teams were cadets from one of the newest RAF Sections at Onslow St Audrey’s School in Hatfield, Hertfordshire. They were there to see what they can aspire to in future years as well as providing the casualties for the First Aiders. A new element this year was the Discussion Group. Teams debated numerous questions including: What should be the role of Senior Cadets in a

CCF BATTLE FOR TOP TROPHY

Section? What impact is the lack of flying and gliding having on Sections? How can we best communicate with cadets and Sections? Should we encourage ATC Sqns and CCF Sections to work together more? If yes, how can we do this? This proved an interesting debate! Daunting From Aberdeen-based Dollar Academy were brother and sister Holly and Matthew Fossett. Cadet Holly Fossett, 14, said that to be at the final was daunting at first but her nerves were eased by meeting all the nice people amongst the other teams. She considers herself a bit of an all-rounder but probably preferred the Fitness Test. Corporal Matthew Fossett, 16, expressed a preference for Drill and possibly fitness too. As first time competitors they were pushed harder against the more experienced teams. First-time finalists too were the cadets from Kings School Worcester, who eventually came third in the competition. Amongst their team were 18-year-olds Corporal Beth Robins and Flight Sergeant Ed Pountney who both enjoyed the Shooting element of the competition. In the First Aid Team competition was 16-year-old Onslow St Audrey Cadet Brice Adusei who had spent the day writhing in (simulated) agony with a bone sticking www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

out of his wrist (also simulated!). He said it had been an educational day being the casualty seeing how different people reacted to his “injury”. As the day went on the leader-board narrowed to three schools. Despite wins in Drill and First Aid, Dulwich College came in as runners-up behind Kimbolton School, who won for the second year in succession. Their contingent Commander Squadron Leader Laura Hadden said that she was “very, very happy with the result” but was quick to pass on the credit to Flight Lieutenant Oliver Hall, the Section’s Commander, and to the cadets.

The trophy was presented by Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty, Commandant Air Cadets. The top three teams will now attend a high-profile event at the Shuttleworth Collection at Old Warden this summer where cadets will be flown in aircraft operated by members of the Air Squadron. The cadets also attend a formal parade where the captains of the three teams receive the Geoffrey de Havilland Flying Foundation Medals for CCF Achievement along with the presentation of The Air Squadron Trophy to the first placed team. n

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Air Cadet News

34 Air Cadet SPRING 2015

Air Cadet News

Typhoon warning

Competition The Cadet Kit Shop, has been kitting out cadets since 1949. In association with the Air Cadet magazine, we invite you to compete for our prize of the season. Our winner will receive the waterproof tactical softshell material jacket. Simply answer the question below and then email your answer together with your name, address and squadron to competitions@ cadetkitshop.com The closing date for entries is 26th June. One winning entry will be picked at random after the closing date. n

Question: What is the RAF Motto and what does it mean? The winner of the Winter 2014 Cadetkitshop competition is Cdt Flt Sgt Keir Marshall 1019 (City of Stirling) Sqn. n

Cadets from 863 (Thurston) Squadron visited RAF Coningsby, home of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and got an insight into a front-line fast jet Typhoon Squadron. The cadets, who were welcomed by the Station Commander, Group Captain Jez Attridge, visited the BBMF and its historic aircraft but the highlight was the chance for every cadet to get hands-on flying in two Typhoon cockpit trainers. Wing Commander Andy Tucker, a Civilian Instructor with 863 Squadron and organiser of the visit, said: “The cockpit trainers were very impressive indeed and for our air cadets to get the opportunity to experience such very modern state of the art technology is exceptional.” The day concluded with a visit to No. 29(R) Squadron responsible for the training and conversion of new Typhoon pilots. n

Airborne Six cadets from 378 (Mannock) Squadron will be visiting Sywell Aerodrome to experience virtual flying in a state-of-the-art simulator. This fantastic opportunity comes thanks to Deputy Mayor, Councillor Graham Lawman who has donated money from the Mayor’s Charity Fund. Flight Lieutenant William Kellock, 378 Squadron’s Commanding Officer, said: “The donation is extremely www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

Obstacles overcome ! Cadets at 126 (City of Derby) Squadron have a new challenge, with the opening of a specially-built trim trail. A group of nine apprentices from Rolls Royce planned and built the trail as part of the Brathay Apprentice Challenge 2015. Challenged to identify a community project that would benefit people in the local area, the group of Rolls Royce apprentices, which includes Civilian Instructor Matthew Chetwyn, decided that 126 Squadron would be the perfect fit! Once the team had assessed and decided what obstacles they could fit into the area, the team then spent a week clearing the ground. With the ground cleared and building materials kindly donated, the team began assembling the various obstacles, including a balance beam and parallel bars. To celebrate the opening, the cadets took on the apprentices in a timed trial of the trim trail. Cadet Flight Sergeant George Burke said: “The trail was physically demanding which is great- it can only get easier! It is a great new activity for the Squadron.” n

generous and will hugely benefit the cadets in Wellingborough. “They work so hard and are looking forward to getting into the pilot’s seat and having a go at flying – if I am honest I am quite keen to have a go myself!” The lucky cadets taking part will be chosen shortly and will be selected as a thank you for their hard work and commitment to the Squadron in 2014. n 35

Air CadeT SHOOTING

Shooting Star ... Cadet Marcus Horry has his sights set on the 2020 Olympics

All shooting is conducted unedr strict supervision.

Marcus Horry, a Cadet Flight Sergeant with 141 (Boston) Squadron, who began competitive shooting just two years ago, is aiming for success at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Seventeen-year-old Marcus, who’s studying for his A Levels at Boston Grammar School, has already come to the attention of Target Tokyo – a project run by British Shooting and UK Sport that aims to identify those shooters that have the potential to be developed for the 2020 Olympic Games. Phase one of the campaign saw shotgun shooters assessed on a whole host

Marcus (centre) with fellow cadets CWO Josh Stones & CWO Chris Jarratt 36 Air Cadet SPRING 2015

of factors including their performance, commitment, motivation, skill acquisition and concentration. From these in-depth assessments, British Shooting’s coaching team carefully selected those athletes deemed suitable to progress into phase two. And that includes Marcus who has been selected for the Regional Development Programme for Olympic Double Trap. Marcus began shooting shotguns two years ago when he was asked to shoot in the National Cadet Clay Target Shooting Championship – a competition that attracts the best cadets from all over the

country. To prepare for this, his first competitive shoot, he had just four weekends of training with his cadet coach. Marcus said: “The three-day competition in Cambridge ended with my beating all 175 cadets with the highest combined score of 54. This was quite unexpected as much of the opposition had years of experience shooting clay pigeons whereas I had none. “Obviously, this was an awesome feeling! It was easy to see I had a natural skill for the sport. It was on this day I fell in love with shooting.” Building on from that success, Marcus continued training with the other Trent Wing CTS team members coached by Civilian Instructor Sandy Jarratt. He entered the RAF Championships at Nottingham in last May

where he came second overall in the ‘Down the Line’ discipline and the Trent Wing cadets won the guest team award. Marcus said: “It was at this point that my cadet coach and I discussed the possibility of taking my training to the next level. I had a trial lesson with England and Olympic Coach, John Bellamy, who rated my shooting positively and thinks I show considerable potential.” Under John’s watchful eye, Marcus has progressed considerably and has qualified for the England selection shoots at Nottingham this month. A former Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for Lincolnshire, Marcus, as well as studying and working part-time in a fish and chip shop to help fund his shooting, has also recently applied to join the RAF. “The future looks promising,” said Marcus. “My hopes are to be selected for the England DTL Junior squad in May and I will carry on training in the Olympic Double Trap with a view to selection for this in 2016. “I would encourage any cadet who gets the chance to have a go. You never know you could be joining myself and fellow-cadet Chris Jarratt in the Olympic Academy, representing your country at Clay Shooting and reaching the Olympic podium.” n

Air Cadet News

Cadets

pull together !

Top coach Two cadets from 126 (City of Derby) Squadron have spent a week at Nesscliffe Training Camp taking part in the Corps Target Rifle Coaching Course on the L81A2 Cadet Target Rifle. The pair - Cadet Corporal Lewis Reid and Cadet Amrit Talwar - were taught to coach a novice shooter whilst improving their own shooting skills at the same time. Both cadets hope the qualification will help them coach cadets at the Inter-Cadet Services Rifle Meeting later in the year. The pair both received their Certificate for Target Rifle Advanced Skills with Cadet Corporal Lewis Reid taking the award for Top Coach on the course for the second year running - a huge achievement. n

www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets

Leicestershire cadets pulled together to move a VC-10 aircraft along the runway at Bruntingthorpe Airfield to raise money for charity. Some 60 cadets from five Leicestershire squadrons faced the challenge of pulling the huge, 63 ton aircraft 500 metres along the runway, doing that in two stretches of 250 metres. With the wind gusting in their faces, it was a difficult start but the cadets took the strain and the wheels started to turn. Officer Commanding 1461 (Wigston & District) Squadron, and event organiser Flight Lieutenant Tim Hargraves, said: “I was a little concerned that this was a big aircraft and that it wouldn’t get moving. However, the grit and determination of the cadets proved me wrong. This has been a great event for cadets across Leicestershire to get together and raise money for the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust as well as fund some local projects.” With the help of a tug, the aircraft was turned round and ready for the return leg. This time, with weakening arms and legs, it took a huge effort from the cadets to pull the aircraft across the finish line. Cadet Warrant Officer Molly Henson said: “Now that was tough! We had some motivating to do but we were determined to cross that line!” n

Cadet’s quick thinking praised Cadet Flight Sergeant Thomas Heath’s quick-thinking and First Aid skills helped an unconscious stranger who wasn’t breathing. Thomas was on his way home from 103 (Doncaster) Squadron when he noticed the unconscious man on the ground. Using the First Aid qualifications gained with the Corps, Thomas cleared some space around the man and discovered his tongue was obstructing his airway. Working quickly, he managed to unblock this and the individual restarted breathing. The paramedics then arrived to take over the treatment and take the man to hospital to recover. After the incident Chief Superintendant Richard

Tweed, Doncaster District Commander for South Yorkshire Police wrote to Thomas praising his efforts. In this letter, he said: “It is without a doubt your quick thinking and immediate action to administer First Aid saved this man’s life. I would like to thank you for your public spirited actions on this occasion.” Flight Lieutenant Matt Bulmer, Officer Commanding 103 Squadron, added: “I’m very proud that Tom acted in a cool and calm manner when administering First Aid in this clearly life or death situation. His actions were of a textbook nature exactly how he was trained. To step up to the mark when he could have panicked or just simply walked on by, is truly exceptional and is to be highly commended!” n 37

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Air Cadet News

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Air Cadet News

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