LaSER
THE
The Journal of the Air Cadets in London and the South East
Autumn 2012
Welcome to
LaSER
THE
In this Issue
Welcome to edition 5 of The Laser!
It really has been a tremendous summer for the Country and
the Corps! Air Cadets have been firmly at the centre of some
of the most exciting events in recent history including HM The
Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics but have also kept up
with the vast array of core activities on offer every year!
We are delighted to have a special feature from the new
Regional Chaplain in this edition plus many stories celebrating the
achievement and dedication of volunteers, not to mention just a
few (of the many) stories demonstrating the depth and breadth
of activities the cadets have been enjoying. The summer period
is always an active time with sports, expeditions, trips at home
and abroad, ceremonial engagements, target shooting, flying and
gliding, to name just a few!
We do hope you enjoy this edition of The Laser - feedback is
always welcome so feel free to get in touch and please remember
to send through any articles and photos for submission into the
Autumn edition of the magazine. We are always on the lookout
for particularly good quality portrait photos for the front cover
so please send them through and you never know, you might
find your photo on the front page! Submissions to media.laser@
aircadets.org as always. Thank you! ■
Squadron Leader C Gourri
London & SE Region Media & Communications Officer
Editor:
Sqn Ldr Caroline Gourri RAFVR(T)
E: media.laser@aircadets.org
Design:
FS (ATC) James Parker
E: media.surrey@aircadets.org
Design elements inspired by Air Cadet
Magazine, produced by Air Media
Centre, HQ Air Command
London & SE Region Media Team
Essex:
Sqn Ldr I Woodward 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)
Printing:
Air Cadets Regional Headquarters
London and South East Region
RAF Northolt
Ruislip Middlesex
HA4 6NG
T. 020 8833 8278
F 020 8833 8391
E: acr-lse-ao@atc.raf.mod.uk
W: www.laseratc.org
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, 2012
No part of ‘The LaSER’ may be
reproduced in part or full without
the written permission of the Editor.
Photographs are Crown Copyright
unless credited otherwise.
‘The LaSER’ is the Journal of London
and South East Region Air Training
Corps and is published quarterly
by kind permission of the Regional
Commandant.
Page 4
LaSER and the Olympics
Page 10
Musical Interlude
Front Cover: Cadets at the Bomber Command Memorial.
Photo: Sqn Ldr P Jones RAFVR(T)
2 The Laser Autumn 2012
A word from the
Commandant
Air Commodore Cooper tries her hand at
playing the bugle on one of her last duties
as Commandant Air Cadets, presenting
a Certificate of Commendation to 282
Squadron. See page 23 for full story
Photo: Flt Lt Vik Singh RAFVR(T)
Page 8
LaSER cadets have enjoyed another summer of varied
and challenging activities, many of them reported in this
newsletter.
Staff and cadets have not only enjoyed seeing the spectacle
of the Queens Jubilee and Olympics, but also took part in
many of the celebrations, that have gripped the nation. These
momentous events lifted our spirits and we swiftly ignored the
really wet summer!
Some of you will have enjoyed the Annual Camps, hosted
by the RAF, who in spite of picking up duties elsewhere still
found the time and resources to give you an insight into the
contemporary RAF as well as excellent training and fun. I pay
tribute to the adult staff who gave their time to take cadet parties
to these camps, both at home and overseas.
I too enjoyed visiting you at the camps – not only did I see
you training but the visits kept me abreast of current RAF core
business.
As a Region, let us all warmly welcome our recently appointed
Commandant AC, Air Commodore McCafferty, to her new
command. Wasting no time, she has already visited the Region,
meeting staff and cadets at various units. I know she will always
be impressed by the standards, commitment and enthusiasm of
staff and cadets as she returns in the future to meet more of her
LaSER people.
Now on to the Autumn competition cycle with activities and
Field Days. These events will stretch the ability of our cadets and
the patience and organisational skills of our staff.
Let us all enjoy the competitions, admire our opponents but
work hard to beat them fair and square! ■
No deviation
Diamond Jubilee Celebra
tions
Page 16
Group Captain L Hakin OBE
Regional Commandant
London & South East Region
ture
Getting a taste of Adven
3 The Laser Autumn 2012
Image: LOCOG
LaSER at the Olympics
With the Olympic action centred on London and the South
East, LaSER was always going to be at the heart of the action
of London 2012. From the torch relay to the excitement of the
Olympic Stadium, LaSER cadets were there.
Raffle winning Air Cadets strike Olympic gold!
Four Air Cadets from Middlesex got the
Olympic experience of a lifetime after
visiting the games and sitting next to Fatima
Whitbread MBE, world record holder in the
Javelin!
Cadet Harry Jaffa won two tickets to
the games in a charity raffled organized by
Hillingdon Borough Council, which gave Harry
and fellow cadet Jojo Xia the opportunity to
the attend the games on the night Usian Bolt
smashed the world record in the Men’s 200m
Olympic final.
Cadet Warrant Officer Charlie Sutton and
Corporal Craig Pollock both of 1083 (Uxbridge)
Squadron, were even more lucky: they didn't
win any tickets themselves, but when their
Commanding Officer did he found the rules
stipulated they were for young people so
he immediately gave them to his two most
deserving cadets! “Thank you Sir” was the
only return that Squadron Leader Stephen
Evans enjoyed from his raffle win, but “that was
enough” said Stephen graciously, “both cadets
have worked very hard for the Squadron and I
was pleased to give them this rare opportunity.”
On the night all four cadets were seated in
a great position in the upper stand and had an
excellent view of the finish line. They also had an
excellent view of a tall lady sitting beside them,
“It can't be!” said Charlie (none of the four cadets
were born when she won her Gold medal in
1987). “It is her” whispered Harry, “I saw her on
I'm a Celebrity”. After some debate, Jojo was
nominated to ask the question: “are you really
Fatima Whitbread?”
What an Olympic Memory
– “It is a Day I will never forget!”
said Craig, “and it cost me
nothing - thank you Squadron
Leader Evans and thank you
Hillingdon Council!” ■
Right: The lucky Cadets with
Fatima Whitbread at the
Olympic Stadium
Basildon Air Cadets meet Japanese Olympic
Swimming Team
Cadet Flight Sergeant Daryl Poole
and Cadet Sergeant Richard
Hepworth (both 18) of 2243
(Basildon) Squadron in Essex Wing
got to interview members of the
Japanese Olympic swimming team,
asking them 12 questions to be aired
on BBC Radio Essex.
The Japanese Olympic team have
been training in Basildon throughout
July and were delighted to have so
many interesting questions from Cadets
of the local area.
“Meeting them was very inspiring.
It amazed us both how polite and
grateful they were towards the whole
community. They did not speak English
so the whole 15 min interview went
through a translator, but even then
we were able to get a great insight
into the wonderful passion and
spirit they have for what they do.
Something I think everyone took
away with them. It was also a very
exciting opportunity to be able to
communicate through the language
barrier by use of a translator” said
Daryl of his experience. ■
4 The Laser Autumn 2012
LaSER at the Olympics
Volunteer Torchbearers
Air Cadets and instructors were recognised across the country
for voluntary work with the honour of carrying the Olympic
torch during its national relay. Naturally LaSER was in the action.
Cadet Flight Sergeant Ryan
Chantrill-Smith from Margate
in Kent was selected to
run with the torch through
Higham in Kent.
Ryan was nominated for two
reasons. First, his hard work and
dedication to a charity called
SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected
Death in Epilepsy), for which in
2008 Ryan was one of the two
support staff supporting an
enormous charity run from Trafalgar Square to
Botany Bay in Margate.
Second for his efforts volunteering with 348
(Thanet) Squadron in Kent Wing, where Ryan
plays a vital role in developing the younger
cadets on his Squadron and supporting
the Squadron staff, which led to Sergeant
Carol Lawson nominating him for this great
opportunity.
Ryan set off at 9:35am and ran his 300 metres
section to hand over the torch to the next
runner. Afterwards, Ryan said of his experience;
“It was one of those things you cannot describe,
I am very grateful as this is a once in a lifetime
opportunity.”
Civilian Instructor and
former Cadet of 2158
(Sevenoaks) Squadron,
Air Cadets Lara Turner
was given the honour
of running with the
Olympic Torch through
Canterbury as part of the
country-wide relay.
Hearing that she
had been nominated to
carry to torch came as
a complete surprise for Lara, who is currently
reading Economics at Durham University.
Lara was nominated for her work with charity,
helping Sevenoaks Air Cadets raise more than
£50,000 for the Royal British Legion.
After running during the relay, Lara said; “That
was quite simply a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
The atmosphere was incredible and it will be
an experience I will never forget. I am incredibly
proud to be part of the Olympic games!” ■
5
www.laseratc.org
Image: LOCOG
Former Air Cadet and now
Civilian Instructor Luke
Benjafield (20) from 241
(Wanstead & Woodford)
Squadron, London Wing had
the honour of carrying the
Olympic torch as it made its
way through Redbridge.
Luke was the first torchbearer
of the day, taking the torch from
the Redbridge Cycling Centre
through a corridor of cyclists
from local clubs.
Luke was nominated for his dedication to the
Air Training Corps and particularly his Squadron
where he has inspired and motivated many
cadets to succeed in their training.
Luke gave the following account of his
experience:
“On Sunday 22 July 2012 it was time for me
to have my moment to shine. I left my house
at 0500 for a 0525 meet at Redbridge Cycling
Centre in the London Borough of Redbridge.
When I collected my torch and headed to my
start point, everyone was cheering and it was
unbelievable. I went and had photos with the
Mayor of Redbridge and the Councillor's. I then
had interviews with London 2012 and the BBC.
I got a 5 minute warning for the Olympic
flame to arrive. It was here, that the atmosphere
was amazing. The police officer lit my flame and
told me to enjoy the experience.
I got the nod from the police officer at
7.19am that it was my moment to shine. It felt
like I was dreaming, I walked through a tunnel
of cyclists and everyone was cheering my name,
I then started to jog down the hill were I could
see my friends and family.
I was nominated for my service to 241
(Wanstead & Woodford) Squadron and for all
my charity work for the Royal British Legion,
Help 4 Heroes, and Haven House. Also for my
commitment to get the younger generation into
such a worthwhile organisation and keep them
off the streets and gain something good out of
their lives.
I was speechless afterwards. It took a while
to sink in that it was real, but it was a once in a
lifetime opportunity that I am glad I took part in.”
The Laser Autumn 20125
LaSER at the Olympics
King Wing Cadets greet the Olympic torch
Romford Air Cadets show their support
for the Olympic torch
As the ‘Olympic Torch frenzy’ gripped
the South East of England, Cadets from
Kent Wing helped to welcome the torch
to East Kent. Cadets from area 3 and 4
joined over 1000 staff from Eurotunnel,
along with their families and friends, at
a special private event as the torch left
the Channel Tunnel on its way to Dover.
The band of 2513 (Romney Marsh)
Squadron piped the torch out of the
tunnel at Samphire Hoe near Dover. The
route from the tunnel to the waiting crowd
was lined by cadets from 99 Folkestone,
305 Ashford, 312 City of Canterbury and
354 Dover Squadrons.
The torch was carried out of the tunnel
by Alison Ward from Dover who happily
posed for photos with the group. “The
sight and the sound of the pipers as
the torch and its team exited the tunnel
brought tears to my eyes” said Catherine
Cleall-Harding, who helped organise the
event.
“The cadets are great ambassadors for
the young people of Kent” said one of the
Torch security guards. The entourage was
so impressed with the cadets that they
even stopped a second time for a photo
opportunity with the following torch
bearer, Lina Klavina, before continuing her
journey to Dover Castle!
Cadet Flight Sergeant Natasha Jelley
of 99 Folkestone Squadron said she was
“very proud” to
have been able
to take part in
such an event;
Air Cadets from 6F (Romford) Squadron
turned out to support the Olympic torch
as it past their headquarters. To show their
level of support they cheered the torch
relay on with an extremely large Union
Flag , in fact one of the torch entourage
called out that it was the largest flag they
had seen on the whole journey! ■
“There have been many memorable events
during my time in the Corps but this has
to be up there among the things I will
always remember! I am due to leave soon
and being able to hold the Olympic Torch
whilst it was on its journey to London has
been a great finale for me.” ■
Cadets meet “humbled” torch carrier Walliams
On Wednesday 26th July 2012, 13 Air
Cadets from 329 (Finsbury) Squadron,
London Wing lined the road in Islington
to support torchbearer Retired Major
Phil Packer, who was severely injured
whilst on active service in Iraq.
As the Cadets all stood to attention as
Major Packer passed them, Mr Nicholas
Lauder a Civilian Instructor with the
Squadron said; “The cadets felt honoured
to be able to support such an esteemed
war veteran who has done so much for
charity.”
After the torch procession, all of the
Cadets were invited to Islington Town
Hall for a rare photo opportunity with the
comedian David Walliams, who had carried
the torch earlier after being nominated for
his outstanding work for charity through
his long distance swimming challenges.
On seeing the Cadets, David exclaimed
“Ooh, little people!” in his characteristically
comedic way, before making small talk
with a few of the cadets, asking if they
were having a good day and enjoying the
experience.
"I was very proud and privileged to be
lining the route at such a prestigious event.
It will go down in the Squadrons history
and being so close to David Walliams and
Major Packer made the day even more
enjoyable. To represent so much on such
a big day was a complete honour” said
Cadet Warrant Officer Lucy Warrell (19)
afterwards. ■
Above: cadets of 329 Sqn with David
Walliams
Below: Kent Wing cadets watch the torch
being lit
6 The Laser Autumn 2012
News Round Up
Essex Cadets Sea King Fun
Historic Bunker Visit
267 (Twickenham) Squadron avoided
the heat by going underground on a
visit to former RAF Uxbridge's Battle of
Britain Operations Bunker. The cadets
thoroughly enjoyed their day on a
private guided tour. ■
Cadets from 2243 (Basildon), 1474
(Wickford), 308 (Colchester) and 276
(Chelmsford) Squadrons in Essex
Wing got a nice surprise when a Sea
King helicopter from B Flt 22 (SAR)
Squadron joined them on an exercise
to find a downed pilot.
The exercise had been in planning for
3 months and it was hard not to let slip
to the cadets that additional help for the
exercise was coming in the form of the
SAR team from RAF Wattisham.
Once the downed pilot was found the
aircraft landed and the crew gave cadets
a tour of the aircraft. ■
Flying High in Sussex
Language no barrier for Air Cadet at Air Tattoo
Above: Cdt Sgt Ramos with the baseball
cap signed by the Black Eagles.
Air Cadet Sergeant Zoe Faith Ramos
from 94 (Feltham) Squadron in
MIddlesex, has enjoyed an incredible
time at the Royal International Air
Tattoo (RIAT) all thanks to the fact that
she has taught herself to speak Korean.
It took Zoe just one day to learn the
alphabet after her sister sent her a Korean
language book and it has taken her just
three years to pick up the language well
enough to converse with the Korean Air
Force's very own Black Eagles display team!
"I met the Black Eagles properly
yesterday and they took me out to the
aircraft where I was with all the pilots and
the engineers. We chatted, shared jokes
and they've christened me their "little
sister". It was so emotional watching them
practise their display that I cried! They've
signed my baseball cap and given me
a model of their T-50 aircraft and some
pin-badges. Best of all though, they all
understood my Korean!"
It all goes to show just what a hard and
dedication can help you achieve - a RIAT
never to be forgotten for this
cadet, that's for sure.
Zoe also managed a
short conversation with the
visiting Japanese aircrew, in
their own language too! ■
Cadet Corporal Aran Ellis of 1440
(Shoreham) Squadron has just earned
his wings by completing a gliding
scholarship at 615 Volunteer Gliding
Squadron, Kenley.
Aran flew solo at the end of his
scholarship and of the 38 minute solo
flight said, “It was amazing, something I
will remember for ever. It was the best
part of the whole experience.”
Living in Portslade, 16 year old Aran
has been a member of 1440 Squadron
for two and a half years and says it is all
thanks to the Air Cadets. ■
261 Drill Champions
261 (Guildford) Squadron retained
their title of champions at the Surrey
Wing Drill Competition. 97 (Croydon)
Squadron won the banner drill
competition. ■
Left: One of the Black
Eagles T-50 jets landing
at RIAT.
Photos: Sqn Ldr Philip
Jones RAFVR(T)
7
www.laseratc.org
The Laser Autumn 20127
Celebrating the Jubilee
This year marks 60 years of Queen
Elizabeth’s reign over the United
Kingdom and Cadets from London and
the South East Region were specially
selected to take part in the celebrations
starting with the Thames Diamond
Jubilee Pageant.
The Queen came to the throne on 6
February 1952 and her coronation took
place on 2 June 1953. She celebrated her
Silver Jubilee (25 years) in 1977 and her
Golden Jubilee (50 years) in 2002. The only
previous Diamond Jubilee celebrated by a
British monarch took place in 1897, when
Queen Victoria marked 60 years of her
reign.
Immaculately dressed and armed
with a smile, Cadets proudly delivered an
array of festival duties, including selling
souvenir programmes, distributing
information leaflets and helping the
VIP welcome team to guide and assist
the public. Their activities were led by
Flight Lieutenant Dave Emmins of 452
(Hornchurch) Squadron, Flight Lieutenant
Mark Bird of 56 (Woolwich) Squadron and
Flight Sergeant Raza Shah of 34F (Balham)
Squadron.
Supervising the Cadet involvement
was Squadron Leader Peter Gourri, who
said “The Air Cadets and Adult Volunteers
always play a vital role in success of these
high profile events. Without exception
this has been one of the best activities
that many of them have been involved in
and I know that they have all enjoyed this
once in a life time experience. I would like
to extend our gratitude to all
of the event organisers who
invited us to take part”.
Amongst these
activities, Cadets from 12F
(Walthamstow) Squadron
and 12F (Tower Hamlets)
Squadron Detached Flight
were invited to the Governor
of the Tower of London’s
Jubilee Street Party.
Joined by 400 other
representatives from a number of
community groups based in the London
borough of Tower Hamlets, cadets and
staff enjoyed a grand Jubilee lunch,
accompanied by live entertainment.
Pilot Officer Rex Nicholls, Officer in
Charge of 12F Detached Flight said “The
cadets had prime view over the River
Thames and of "The Spirit of Chartwell"
which carried Her Majesty The Queen,
the Duke of Edinburgh and many other
members of the Royal Family. The cadets
said their highlight was hearing the 41
gun salute fired in honour of Her Majesty's
Diamond Jubilee Celebration.”
On the final day of the
extended Jubilee weekend
an official luncheon was held
at Westminster Hall hosted
by the City of London Livery
Companies. Present were
Her Majesty, members of the
Royal Family and guests of
the Livery Companies which
consisted of supported
charities and youth gathered,
to celebrate the 60th year of
Queen Elizabeth’s II reign over
lunch.
Dining on food prepared
by a Michelin star chef, Flight
Lieutenant Christopher
Booty RAFVR(T) Officer
Commanding 282 (East Ham)
Squadron was one of the
lucky guests to share such
a luxurious meal with Her
Majesty The Queen.
282 (East Ham) Squadron was recently
affiliated with the Worshipful Company
of Plaisterers and ever since has had the
pleasure of dining at banquets and taking
part in grand ceremonial events.
Flight Lieutenant Booty attended the
event at the invitation of the Master of the
Plaisterers, Peter Baker.
Flight Lieutenant Booty stated “I
was truly honoured to receive such an
invitation. So many people dream of
having lunch with the Queen and the
Royal Family and to have this opportunity
was amazing! After attending
the Diamond Jubilee concert,
this luncheon was a fine
ending to a fantastic Jubilee
celebration. I thank the
Plaisterers for giving me this
memorable experience”
Also present was Pilot
Officer Ahmed Ali-Ellesawy
of 344 (Fulham) Squadron
who was invited by the
8 The Laser Autumn 2012
LaSER Cadets
Celebrate the
Jubilee in Style
LaSER Cadets and Staff were at the heart of the
national celebrations of Her Majesty the Queen’s
Diamond Jubilee. From official events in London,
to local celebrations, our cadets were there proudly
commemorating 60 years of our Monarch.
Worshipful Company of Mercers, who are
affiliated with 344 Squadron. Pilot Officer
Ali-Ellesawy commented, “The Queen’s
Jubilee lunch was a once in a lifetime
experience, for which I am grateful to the
Worshipful Company of Mercers and the
Air Training Corps. It was a great privilege
to experience such a fantastic meal, in a
historic setting and with such esteemed
guests.”
Outside of London a new Diamond
Jubilee Community Rose Garden was
officially opened outside Hailsham Library,
by Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of East
Sussex, Peter Field.
Cadets and Staff from 249 (Hailsham)
Squadron attended as the guard of
honour. Other VIPs in attendance where
the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Hailsham
and the Chairman of East Sussex County
Council.
After the ceremony the Lord Lieutenant
came and spoke to all the cadets and staff.
He thanked the cadets for coming and
commented on how very smart they all
looked. The Mayor also spoke and thanked
the cadets for all the hard work they had
put in a couple of weeks ago to prepare
the Jubilee Garden.
Chris Dowling, Chairman of East Sussex
County Council said: “We are very pleased
to be able to work with the Town Council
to promote the Queens Diamond Jubilee
and help with this project by allowing the
use of this area of land near the Library. I
am sure the Jubilee Garden will be used
and enjoyed by people in Hailsham for
www.laseratc.org
many years to come.”
In the afternoon Cadets also ran the
Mobile Climbing Tower and a recruitment
stand at a mass Jubilee fair opposite the
library. ■
Top: Cadets at the Thames River Pageant
and Tower of London Street Party.
Left: Flt Lt Booty (top) and Plt Off
Ali-Ellesawy (bottom) at the Jubilee
Luncheon.
Above: Cadets at the Jubilee Garden
opening
London Cadets help launch the Jubilee Hour
Air Cadets and Adult Volunteers from
444 (Shoreditch) Squadron joined the
Secretary of State for Communities
and Local Government, Eric Pickles
MP and Commandant Air Cadets,
Air Commodore Barbara Cooper to
help launch the "The Jubilee Hour" at
Somerset House in the Stand, London.
This campaign aims to recognise
Her Majesty the Queen’s 60 years of
public service by encouraging people to
undertake 60 minutes of volunteering, or
an act of goodwill. You can pledge your
Jubilee hour to be done at any time in
the Jubilee year.
To get started, individuals and
organisations can open their own profile
page and pledge a Jubilee hour.
Cadet Sergeant Rebekah Agboola of
444 (Shoreditch) Squadron said of the
event, “It was really interesting and a great
idea which I will be doing so I can say I
have done my bit for the Jubilee Hour.”
“The Air Cadets were absolutely
fantastic and their presence invaluable....
everyone has been talking about their
exemplary manners, turnout, courtesy
and behaviour and, from us all at The
Jubilee Hour, very many thanks.” Stated
Mr Jonathan Haward who is a Goodwill
Ambassador for the “Jubilee Hour”. ■
Cadets of 444 Sqn at the Jubilee Hour
Launch
9
Surrey Cadets musical hit at the RAF’s
Jubilee Concert
Cadets from Surrey Wing Air Training
Corps helped to entertain the crowds
at the recent Royal Air Force musical
salute to the Queen’s Jubilee.
The event at Loseley Park near Guildford
was the first public performance of the
recently formed Surrey Wing Band. The
band opened the concert with a host
of recognisable tunes, impressing the
crowd despite their lack of experience
as Sergeant Kirsty Witchell, the Wing
Bandmaster explained, “Some had only
been learning for two or three months.
With one rehearsal a month, some of
them have only played the drum two or
three times, so they did brilliantly.” She
added, “For a first performance I was really
impressed, they were very nervous but
they pulled it off.”
But the Wing band was not the only star
of the show from the Air Cadets. Two lucky
cadet musicians were invited to play with
the main entertainment of the evening;
the Central Band of the RAF. Cadet Holly
Everest of 1034 (Surbiton) Squadron and
Cadet Sergeant Katherine Pound of the
nearby 261 (Guildford) Squadron played
with the band for their full four hour
set of music. Sergeant Pound, a flautist,
explained how nerve wracking it was for
the duo, “They originally wanted us to play
just the air cadet march, but when they
realised that we were both grade 8’s they
said we could play for the whole thing,
which was slightly scary as we hadn’t
actually seen that music before. Apart
from the cadet march, we were just sight
reading it.” But despite the
nerves she still enjoyed the
experience, “It was absolutely
incredible.”
Cadet Everest, who plays
the saxophone, echoed these
feelings, “It was fantastic
and the best experience I’ve
ever had in cadets.” And the
experience left her wanting
more, “I’m going to definitely
join up as an RAF Musician
once I leave cadets, it was
brilliant.”
The girls were picked to play with the
Central Band by the Wing bandmaster,
Sergeant Witchell. She was approached
to nominate two cadets from Surrey, and
picked them due to their experience
with music in the Air Training Corps.
Both Sergeant Pound and Cadet Everest
have played with the Air Cadet National
Marching Band and National Concert
Band. They have played at the Royal
International Air Tattoo and have now
played with the National Marching Band
in Paris.
Other cadets also provided
entertainment to the 2,100 strong
crowd in the form of a continuity drill
display. Cadets from 261 (Guildford) and
97 (Croydon) Squadrons performed the
routine of drill movements
with no words of command,
while the new air cadet
march was played by the
Central Band.
During the interlude the
cadets were joined by the
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief
Marshall Sir Stephen Dalton.
There was a first for him as he
was asked to present a Cadet
Forces Medal to Squadron
Leader David Ratcliffe, Surrey
Wing’s Sports Officer. The
10 The Laser Autumn 2012
Musical Interlude
medal is awarded to uniformed members
of the Cadet Forces for 12 years service.
Squadron Leader Ratcliffe commented, “It
is always a honour to receive a medal, but
this is extra special knowing that this is the
only one to have been presented by the
Current Chief of the Air Staff.”
Air Chief Marshall Dalton also took time
to speak to some of the cadets including
every member of the Wing Band. He
summed up with some inspirational
words, “I hope that you are finding that
being a part of the Air Training Corps is
a fundamentally enjoyable experience.
Whether it is climbing the rock face out
there, which your successors are clearly
enjoying doing right now, or whether it’s
actually being part of a team together
and producing what is clearly a team
effort, which is what being in the Air
Training Corps is all about. Learning about
yourselves, but learning about each other
in a good environment.” Having
seen the crowd’s response
he added, “The way that
the public is responding
out there is a great
accolade to the fact
that they see you as a
great ambassadorial
team on behalf of
the Air Training Corps.
So very well done and
thank you for coming.”
The event ended in a
classic patriotic finale. While
the crowd were singing and waving their
union flags, the assembled staff and cadets
of Surrey Wing paraded in front of the
stage. ■
Left top: Cdt Holly Everest on
stage with the Central Band
Left bottom: The Chief of the Air
Staff talks to the Band
Air Cadet National Marching Band Tours Paris
The Air Cadet National Marching Band
has just returned from France - their
first overseas trip.
Fifty one Cadets from across the UK
joined forces for a unique trip to Paris
to representing the Air Cadets and the
Combined Cadet Force (CCF) at Disneyland
Paris.
The one-week musical adventure
began at Napier Barracks in Folkestone
Kent with a ferry crossing to Calais.
The band performed at a host of
famous venues around Paris including
outside the Eiffel Tower, Musée de l’Air et
de l’Espace in Le Bourget, and Disneyland
Paris.
The band performed a variety of pieces
including ‘Aces High’ from the film 'The
Battle of Britain', 'Olympic Fanfare and
Theme' by John Williams to celebrate
the 2012 Olympics and also
'Elegy on an RAF March Past'
which allowed Cadet Alec
Webb (17) from Hants &
Isle of White Wing on
Euphonium to perform
the lyrical solo that
is key to the piece of
music.
Air Cadets from the
London & South East
Region (LaSER) included
principle flutist, Katherine
Pound from Guildford Squadron
who ensured the melody in ‘Aces
High’ was heard by everyone on
the Piccolo and Malte Hoffmann
who was one of a number of
saxophonists who ensured the
saxophone section was a
force to be reckoned with!
The young musicians
come from Air Cadet
Squadrons and CCF RAF
Sections across the UK
and meet three times a
year to rehearse and
perform at a variety of prestigious events.
The band is made up from Woodwind,
Brass and Percussion with Cadets age’s
ranging from 13-20.
An added bonus for the musicians
was having their families present at
some of the performances in Paris. Those
who attended Disney were some of the
loudest out of the 40,000 people who had
visited the park on the day. This support
enabled the band to perform to its highest
standard and left many with a tear in their
eye through the pride they had.
It wasn’t all music in Paris; in their free
time the cadets also enjoyed a trip down
the River Seine and had opportunities to
relax during a meal at Planet Hollywood.
Air Cadet Director of Music, Squadron
Leader Nick Sermon said; “we are all very
proud of what the band have achieved.
I am so thrilled with the reception they
received in each of the venues and I’m
looking forward to more events of this
kind in the future”
The next performance for the Air Cadets
National Marching Band will be the Lord
Mayors Show in London in November.
Special mention should also be given
to another LaSER Air Cadet - Bradley
Hodgkinson from Folkestone in Kent as
he was the only bass drummer on the
tour and he was relatively new to the
instrument. It would be fair to say he was a
bit nervous, but for each performance he
gave a solid pace for the band to produce
a fine performance. ■
Insert: Cdt Sgt Katherine Pound
Below: The Marching Band play
at Disneyland
11 www.laseratc.org
The Laser Autumn 2012
11
Musical Interlude
Kent Wing Bands Play at Leeds Castle
Nearly 100 cadets from 99 (Folkestone), 305 (Ashford),
312 (City of Canterbury), 354 (Dover), 2235 (Deal), 2433
(Ramsgate) and 2513 (Romney Marsh) Squadrons, led by
Flight Lieutenant Cliff East, the Kent Wing bandmaster, took
part in the annual Leeds Castle Open Air Classical Concert
last weekend, providing a thirty minute opening act to the
event in what must have been some of the most atrocious
weather and the heaviest down pour of rain this summer!
After rehearsing in difficult weather conditions during the day,
the heavens opened just as the band marched on, but, like true
professionals, the band played on! The audience gave them a
rousing send off as they were led out of the arena at the end of
their display by Cadet Flight Sergeant Pantelli of 2433 (Ramsgate)
Squadron who was the Drum Major for the evening - to dry out
before their second appearance as the introduction to the Royal
Air Force Central Band.
Fortunately for the second appearance the rain had stopped
but the waterlogged ground made it very difficult for marching
and there was a lot of mud to be removed from shoes and
uniforms!
The event continued with music from the Military Wives –
accompanied by piper Cadet Zac Stimson of 2500 (St Neots)
Squadron who was ‘guesting’ with the 2513 (Romney Marsh)
Squadron pipe band for the weekend, Capital Voices, The Jubilairs,
The RAF Central band and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
A Hurricane and Mustang provided a fitting backdrop as
cadets from 99 and 354 Squadrons lowered the Union flag
during the Sunset Ceremony, with split second timing, and
under the watchful eye of Flight Lieutenant Nikki Moon Officer
Commanding 305 Squadron who took the salute, watched, on
the big screen, by an estimated 10,000 people in the audience.
The cadets were then able to relax and enjoy the rest of the
evening as it continued with music from the various acts ending
in a fantastic finale of fireworks, a 21 gun salute and the 1812
overture!
Kent Pipes and Drums Heard in
Scotland
For the 6th year in succession, Kent Wing Air Cadets have
taken part in a pipes and drums training camp at Cameron
Barracks, in Inverness.
15 cadets from 2513 (Romney Marsh) and 354 (Dover)
Squadrons joined other cadets from across the UK to benefit
from the week long intensive training where they were able
to gain experience of working with and learning from regular
RAF and Army pipers. The week culminated in a massed
band ‘Beating the retreat’ ceremony on two public parades
combining both Air and Army cadets.
Flight Lieutenant Dave Law, the bandmaster with
responsibility for pipes and drums in Kent said;
“This was a tremendous opportunity for the cadets to work
with full time professional musicians, to gain qualifications
through CVQO and to represent their Squadrons, Wings,
Regions and the Corps. The massed pipes and drums were so
successful and so popular that they are now to be included in
the Corps Marching Band.”
If that recognition was not enough, as a result of the high
standards achieved, the cadets have since had the honour
of playing at a garden party at Balmoral Castle for HM Queen
Elizabeth and 3000 invited guests as part of the Diamond
Jubilee celebrations. ■
Sainsbury’s Shoppers Help Cadets
Try Something New
After a long but successful day at this prestigious event, the
tired but elated cadets left with big smiles having proved once
again what Kent Wing can achieve - with many of the same
cadets ready to do it all again the next morning at Capel le Ferne!
Officer Commanding Kent Wing, Wing Commander Greg
Garrod-Bell said; “Despite the heavy rain and muddy conditions,
the band put on a splendid performance for an appreciative
audience. This was a night when our cadets showed how talented
they are and they gained the admiration of the audience.” ■
Hard working Royal Air Force Air Cadets have been
astonished by the generosity of shoppers in Sainsbury’s
Sydenham, as they raised over £2000 towards their trip to
the USA in November 2012.
The Lewisham cadets, aged between 13 and 17, spent a June
weekend in the Sainsbury’s superstore in Sydenham, helping
customers to pack bags, and raising awareness of the Squadron’s
trip. Twenty cadets will fly out to Atlanta to see how aircraft are
made at Lockheed Martin, and operated with trips to US Air
Force and US Navy bases. But once in a lifetime trips like this
are not cheap, and the cadets have been creative with their
approaches to raising money!
“The support we received from Bill Woledge, the Store
Manager, and his team has been simply fantastic – they couldn’t
12 The Laser Autumn 2012
Musical Interlude
Cadets Raise the Roof at Winston Churchill Hall
Air Cadets from Middlesex held a
rumbustious “Tattoo” in the Winston
Churchill Hall to raise money for the RAF
Benevolent Fund– what a good cause and
what a fantastic noise!
The event bought together cadet bands,
dancing groups and choirs with electric effect
– The Asian Dance Group from 1846 (Southall)
Squadron stole the show with their elegant
and colourful display of oriental culture – the
dancers’ energetic choreography had the
audience on the edge of their seats. Just as
popular and certainly as energetic, the Spitfire
Kids choir from RAF Northolt gave a lively
performance in harmony with the Middlesex
Singers – a local cadet choir which has gained
an enviable reputation since being formed late
last year. Sergeant Justine Stringer, who has
trained junior kids choirs for many years, was
pleased with the results: “I am delighted with
the effect the combined choirs produced. The
children are between 5 – 10 years old and I was
not certain how they would react to singing
with their teenage counterparts. The experiment
has been a huge success.”
The Tattoo also included information about
the work of the Benevolent Fund and how it
helps to meet the needs of Service personnel,
especially when military duties cause separation
from families. Said Group Captain Tim O’Brien,
Station Commander of RAF Northolt: “The
welfare of all our personnel is a top priority for
all my executive staff and we are very happy to
have the Benevolent Fund’s help. The welfare
amenities it has helped to provide, serve both
the needs of Service families as well as those of
many of our loyal civilian staff. It is a very worthy
charity”.
The evening’s entertainment was skilfully
compered by Squadron
Leader Howard Leader, a
part-time Reservist and also an
experienced radio broadcaster.
One of his tasks was to
interview another volunteer:
Squadron Leader Peter
Johnstone, a member of the
Royal Auxiliary Air Force who
lives in Ruislip. He was asked
by Howard to explain how he
managed to balance his “day
job” with being a part-time
logistics specialist: “The two
are complimentary”, he said –
“but the Air Force is more fun!”
Senior Aircraftwoman Iphie
Modu, a trainee barrister in
London, talked about the new
skills she had developed as a
result of being a Reservist in
600 (City of London) Squadron,
based at RAF Northolt. She
had already used these new
skills during her deployment in
Afghanistan. Her experiences
through being a member of
this unique Squadron were
“quite different and very
worthwhile”.
The evening reached a
finale with the Middlesex Wing
Band giving a lively rendition of
Vera Lynn’s famous – “There’ll
Always be an England” – the
audience joined in and the
song had to be repeated not
once, but four times ! What a
joyful and celebratory noise! ■
have been more willing to get involved and help
us!” commented Warrant Officer Andy Lidinson,
the trip leader. “We’ve raised an amazing amount
of money, and the cadets have really enjoyed
being able to share their excitement and
enthusiasm with Sainsbury’s customers.”
Cadets have also completed gruelling
sponsored walks, and participated in personal
fundraising activities to support their trip. What
makes it all worth while?
“We are aiming to develop an interest
in aviation in young people – and all of our
training, flying and gliding opportunities and
adventurous activities – help to inspire the next
generation of pilots, engineers and leaders”
explained Pilot Officer Wesley Pollard. “The USA
trip allows cadets to get up close with the best
aviation technology in the world, and maybe
even the aircraft of the future that these cadets
could one day go and fly!
It’s an amazing opportunity, that the cadets
have been working towards and planning for
nearly two years. Thanks to the shoppers and
staff at Sainsbury’s, the cadets are now one step
closer to realising that dream. ■
www.laseratc.org
Picture: Cadet Corporal
Thomas Norton - 1921 Sqn
13
News Round-up
Photo: Mr Kevin Poolman
Armed Forces Recognised In Covenant Pledge
Westminster City Council pledged
its support to Her Majesty’s Armed
Forces in July as The Lord Mayor of
Westminster signed the Military
Covenant on behalf of the council and
its partners.
Cadet Flight Sergeant Kelly of 291
(Westminster & Chelsea) Squadron
attended the much anticipated signing
along with Squadron Leader Neil Knowles
RAFVRT and WO Roland Mackenzie of
London Wing, the only representatives of
the RAF’s Air Cadets at the event!
Cadet Flight Sergeant Kelly
commented; “It was an absolute honour to
represent the Air Cadets at such a symbolic
signing of the new Military Covenant. I will
remember this historic event for years to
come.”
In addition to the signing itself,
Westminster City Council also became
one of the first local authorities in the
country to recognise the start of Armed
Forces Week by formally raising an Armed
Forces Day flag above the City Hall on
Westminster’s Victoria Street.
As well as The Lord Mayor of
Westminster, Councillor Angela Harvey’s
attendance, the events of the day were
also witnessed by the leader of the council,
Councillor Philippa Roe, and Commanding
Officer of the London Central Garrison,
Lieutenant Colonel Tim Jalland.
Squadron Leader Neil Knowles
remarked; “It’s extremely healthy to see
many young people such as Cadet Flight
Sergeant Kelly attending this event. It
helps to reinforce the bond between
the public and the military, and London
Wing takes great pride in ensuring Cadets
understand the significance of days like
today”.
The current military covenant is an
agreement, although informal, between
the nation and Her Majesty’s Armed Forces
laying bare the obligations that both the
military and the nation as whole bare to
one another.
Despite several attempts the military
covenant is not currently enshrined in law,
however, an annual report is presented to
parliament detailing how commitments
have been observed over the previous
year.
Speaking at the event, Councillor
Angela Harvey said: “The City of
Westminster Council acknowledges the
crucial role played by the members of
Her Majesty’s Armed Forces; they are an
integral part of Britain. I am delighted
that the council fully supports armed
forces week; in flying the flag at City Hall
and signing the Military Covenant, we
recognise the important contribution our
armed forces make” ■
London Wing Adult Volunteers Attend Historic First RAF BME Conference
Air Cadet Adult Volunteers from
London Wing have joined together
with other Royal Air Force personnel
from all over the country, to be part
of the service’s first ever conference
to address the need for a more
ethnically diverse workforce.
Despite being the largest air force in
Europe, only 2.5% of the RAF’s 39,000
full time staff come from black or
ethnic minority (BME) backgrounds.
The proportion of London Wing staff
from BME backgrounds is significantly
higher than the RAF average, and
several members of the Wing staff team
attended the conference.
In total over 100 members of the RAF
were present, and the group were invited
to share their experiences of serving in
the RAF, the reaction of their family to
their involvement in the armed forces,
and the misconceptions held by many
young people from similar backgrounds.
Many spoke about being met by a
mixture of curiosity and criticism by other
members of their community. All were
keen to stress the positive atmosphere
within the RAF, but highlighted the
need for more to be done to engage
with BME communities when it came to
recruitment.
Wing Sports Officer, Flying Officer
Sulaiman Mehmood spoke about the
largely positive experiences he had
had when people learned about his
involvement in the ATC, “I walk into my
mosque with my uniform on, and people
respect me. They want to know what
you are about. People know you as a role
model for the community anyway.”
“If you have a good rapport with
the community, you can go anywhere.
They are intrigued to know why you are
doing it”.
Speaking to reporters from Eastern
Eye, Squadron Leader Janet Adams,
responsible for equality and diversity
within RAF said, “In order to get the
best talent, we need to do more to
attract from communities we haven’t
traditionally recruited from. There is a
problem with regards to how the RAF
is perceived in BME communities and
we want to address this. There is a lot of
humanitarian work we do which people
just aren’t aware of.
“The conference was very helpful, so
now we can hopefully move forward
and put everything into action,” she
concluded. ■
14 The Laser Autumn 2012
News Round-up
Uxbridge Air Cadet Fur-ndraising Efforts
Air Cadets from 1083 (Uxbridge)
Squadron have raised £3,400 in aid of
the “Hounds for Heroes” Charity.
Hounds for Heroes provide specially
trained assistance dogs to injured and
disabled men and women of both the
UK Armed Forces and Civilian Emergency
Services in order to enhance their quality
of life.
The Squadron decided to support the
charity after seeing it the BBC’s “One Show”.
As it is a small charity, the Squadron felt
they could really make a difference and
work closely with the charity.
The Cadets undertook various activities
to raise the funds. The
Squadron band performed
at the local shopping centre
(raising over £600 from
donations by members of
the public), then the cadets
worked as a team to travel
the distance of Land’s End to
John O’Groats using cardio
vascular exercise machines
at RAF Northolt, raising
sponsorship monies via their
friends and family in the
process.
The Squadron invited
Squadron Leader Wayne
Palmer RAF - the Chief
Executive Officer of the charity - to
collect the cheque along with Berkley
the dog at a recent ceremony marking
the official opening of the new Squadron
headquarters.
Cadet Corporal Austin Smith showed
Squadron Leader Palmer around the new
Headquarters, giving him the opportunity
to meet and speak with cadets and
parents about the work the charity does.
Cadet Corporal Craig Pollock, who
raised £600 on his own, presented the
cheque to Squadron Leader Palmer in front
of the assembled dignitaries and parents.
In recognition for his individual effort Craig
was also given tickets to the
Olympics!
On receiving the cheque,
Squadron Palmer said; “It
was an absolute pleasure
to visit 1083 Squadron and
receive this huge amount
of money. It was even more
remarkable when you take
into consideration that
Hounds for Heroes was not
their only charity that they
supported this year. These
young Cadets are extremely
motivated and a credit to
their Squadron." ■
Cadets Get Blown Away
Cadets from Haslemere and Guildford
were blown away when visiting QinetiQ in
Farnborough. They were given tours of the
anechoic chamber for testing jet engines
and the 5 m low speed wind tunnel. Both
facilities are amongst the largest if their
kind in the world. Rolls Royce tests the
sound characteristics of it’s engines in the
anechoic chamber, and Boeing test their
latest aircraft designs in the wind tunnel. ■
450 Sqn Make a Splash
450 (Kenley) Sqn made a splash in the pool
at the Surrey Wing Swimming Gala. 450
took the overall trophy, junior boys, Senior
girls and the overall trophies for both boys
and girls. 1075(Camberley) Sqn took the
Senior Boys category, with 285 (Coulsdon
& Purley) Sqn taking the Junior Girls title. ■
www.laseratc.org
282 Squadron Attend
Plaisterers Banquet
Cadets attended the Annual Banquet
of the Worshipful Company of
Plaisterers recently and lined the
stair case, providing a carpet guard
for Mr Nick Anstee (Former Lord
Mayor of the City of London) and
General Lord Dannatt GCB, CBE,
MC, DL (Former Chief of the General
Staff).
There were over 300 guests at the
Banquet and all the persons attending
very impressed with the turnout of
the Cadets from the 282(East Ham)
Squadron, Royal Air Force Cadets.
Office Commanding HMS Dragon,
along with Senior Officers of the Royal
Marines and Royal Air Force were all
very impressed with the cadets and
expressed their enthusiasm for the
cadet movement.
After welcoming the guests, the
Squadron’s Commanding Officer
Flight Lieutenant Chris Booty RAFVR(T)
and Cadet Sergeant Hayes joined
the Freemen and Liverymen of the
Company along with the Senior Officers
in the Plaisterers Hall for a 4 course
meal. After the meal, there were
a number of speeches which were
received by the guests. The Squadron
was congratulated several times on
its successes and its hard work on
developing the youth in the East End of
London.
Flt Lt Booty stated “The evening
was excellent. The cadets represented
their Squadron and Organisation at the
highest standard and made me proud”.
He went on to say “The Squadron has
made many friends from our affiliation
with the Plaisterers tonight. I can
most certainly see a great future with
this Company, the City of London
Corporation, and the other affiliations”
The Plaisterers are also affiliated with
HMS Dragon (the new Daring Class
type 45 Destroyer), The Royal Marines,
the Royal Engineers, and the Special
Reconnaissance Regiment.
282 (East Ham) Squadron is the
Livery Company’s most recent affiliation
and have been welcomed by all the
members and fellow affiliates with
open arms embracing the motto of the
The Worshipful Company of Plaisterers.
‘Let Brotherly Love Continue’. ■
15
Getting a taste of adventure
Kent Cadets Hit the Peak of Adventure
Three Kent based Air Cadet Squadrons
joined together to offer adventurous
training to cadets in the stunning
surroundings of the Peak District.
Organised by 2158 (Sevenoaks)
Squadron, and joined by 228 (Bromley)
and 340 (Edenbridge) Squadrons, 10
cadets and staff travelled to Hathersage
in the Peak District for a weekend of
climbing, mountain biking and hill
walking.
the weather – I learnt to bunny hop on a
mountain bike for the first time and also
got more experience in outdoor climbing,
which I really enjoy. It was great to meet
cadets from other squadrons too!”
Adult Sergeant Paul Howes and Flight
Lieutenant Russell Dowling also took
advantage of the weekend to provide
them with an opportunity to work
under fully qualified members of staff
in rock climbing and mountain biking
to gain experience towards their own
National Governing Body awards in these
disciplines.
Sergeant Howes said; “At the moment
I am working hard to progress towards
my qualifications in walking and climbing,
so it was great to spend the weekend
working under an experience SPA qualified
member of staff to gain the valuable
group experience I need to move towards
assessment.” ■
Lucky Number Seven
for Surrey’s Swimmers
STOP PRESS.......STOP PRESS.....
Surrey Wing has continued their
winning streak in the pool after
being crowned overall champions at
the Region swimming Gala for the
seventh year in a row.
Coming in second place was Kent
Wing, with Middlesex completing the
top three. ■
Although the weather was changeable
(wet!), the cadets and staff enjoyed a
varied programme which saw them
undertake single pitch rock climbing,
a 26km mountain bike ride (with skills
sessions) and a walk onto Kinder Scout.
Some of the cadets got to experience
these activities for the first time and learnt
many new skills during the weekend.
Cadet Corporal Liam O’Brien said;
“This was an excellent weekend, despite
Kent Cadets Venture to Adventure in Alaska
An intrepid team of 10 Air Cadets and
staff from Kent Wing have just returned
from the experience of a lifetime, a
two-week overseas expedition to the
Alaskan wilderness.
The trip included a five day seakayaking expedition into Prince William
sound and the glaciers of Harriman Fiord,
followed by a four day backpacking trek
into the wilds of the Talkeetna mountains.
The expedition, sponsored by the Royal
Air Force Charitable Trust, HQ Air Cadets
and the Ulysses Trust was designed to
develop the cadets’ personal skills in a
challenging and arduous environment.
Over the full 14 day expedition, the cadets
were responsible for managing all aspects
of the expedition – food and catering,
transport, budgets, first aid, equipment
and more. This gave them a valuable
insight into the responsibilities required
of expedition team members and allowed
them to put into practice and develop the
many skills they have learnt as cadets in
the UK.
Facing challenging weather conditions
and terrain throughout both of the
main phases of the expedition, the
cadets displayed a high level of morale
throughout and coped well with the
physical and mental challenges of an
expedition environment. They were
rewarded with close up views of glaciers,
seals and otters and some superb
views following some challenging
mountaineering terrain.
Cadet Warrant Office David MacQuarrie,
one of the expedition participants said;
“This is my first ever overseas expedition
and the experience was an amazing one.
It was hard, challenging work during
both the kayaking and trekking phases
due to the weather and terrain, but it was
so rewarding once we saw the views. I
learnt an awful lot about myself on this
expedition and I think it is the best thing I
have done as an Air Cadet to date!”
Flight Lieutenant Russell Dowling,
the deputy expedition commander, said;
“Overseas expeditions are the pinnacle of
the cadet adventurous training experience,
and this one is no exception – cadets can
gain so much from this experience that is
immensely valuable in later life. The cadets
proved to be a strong team which only
got stronger as the expedition progressed,
showing exactly why these expeditions are
so good for personal development.” ■
16 The Laser Autumn 2012
Getting a taste of adventure
Surbiton Cadets Hit the Alps
This year saw 8 cadets and 3 staff of
1034 (Surbiton) Sqn launch 'Alps III
(2012)', the third year that they have
mounted a walking expedition in the
Swiss Alps. The expedition is open to
cadets who are already 16 or turn 16
in the year of the trip, so for many it
is a total mind change post GCSE or
A Level exams. Below is the account
of Cdt Hamish Brechin of the weeks
challenging but exhilarating activities,
for which we were lucky enough to
receive a grant from the Ulysses Trust in
support of the activity.
The week started with a remarkably
early start however this was soon made
up for at the airport when Richard Murphy
exclaims “Look, that’s Tsonga.” Obviously
we all looked and began to chatter
excitedly, unfortunately for Tsonga I don’t
think he wanted to be disturbed but that
was not to be. As we all trouped over he
belatedly looked up and the whole flight
soon caught on to who he was. The rest
of the flight was uneventful and the same
can be said for the train journey. So after
a long day of travelling we arrived at the
camp site to a BBQ.
The first days walk was simple on the
way up but fiendishly difficult on the way
down, with a drop of 300m in just 1km of
walking. Whilst, the weather was slightly
overcast on the first day it was superb on
the second as we departed on the train
to Reichenbach. From there it was a short
bus journey up to Kiental although it felt
far longer with the fast driving and sheer
drops. We then began our walk back to
camp and 14km and several hours later we
arrived back, again the food was superb.
The second day started with a gondola
trip to Lake Oeschinensee and a walk up
to 2840m to stay overnight in a mountain
hut. The long and tiring ascent up to
Blumisalp mountain hut was definitely
worth it when the glacier appeared before
us, glistening in the sun and we could
see the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau. Whilst
the views were fabulous, dinner stole the
show! After three courses of pork, gravy
and mashed potato it is fair to say that
we were all well and truly satisfied and
so, with a full stomach we headed to
bed ready for an early start the next day.
Having woken before 7 and prepared
to start by 7:45 the mood was definitely
grouchy. With a temperature just below 0
we didn’t hang about long and were soon
beneath the cloud cover. Having arrived
www.laseratc.org
back at the campsite we proceeded to
relax after a long and challenging day.
The penultimate walk was the most
interesting and challenging walk of them
all. As we walked towards what some
people argue to be the largest glacier
in Europe we came across a massive
boulder field, which we later found out
had occurred in the previous week.
The following two hours were the most
challenging walking of my life, yet the
most rewarding and when we reached the
start of the glacier we turned to see some
fabulous views of two F-18s dogfighting
above the valley.
The final walk was comparatively
simple. A short cable car journey and only
a slightly longer walk with an ascent of
only 300-400 metres saw us complete
the week’s walks. All that was left to do
was pack up camp, catch the train back
to Geneva airport and jump on a plane
and so with slightly heavy hearts we
left Kandersteg and arrived home early
evening on the 14th July.
To sum up, a thoroughly enjoyable,
relaxing but challenging week and my
thanks go to CI Merlin Hibbs for organising
such a great week and without whom we
wouldn't be able to launch such a sqn
expedition 'in house'. ■
Mad for Media
Cadets and staff from London Wing
have taken part in a Media Skills
Course on 13 May 2012.
The purpose of the course was to
learn how to take effective photographs
and how to write impressive press
releases as well as learn video and radio
interview techniques.
As part of the course, they listened to
power point presentations on valuable
and interesting areas, had practical
photography lessons and participated in
group discussions.
London Wing Ready
for the Field
10 Adult Volunteers from the London
Wing have attended the first Wing
Fieldcraft Training Camp for Adult
Instructors.
The course, which took place at
Mereworth Training area in Kent, was
run over two days and included the
volunteers leaning all aspects of Military
Field Training as well as sleeping out
under a Basha.
The purpose of the weekend was
to ensure that the Instructors have the
correct skills and knowledge to teach
cadets fieldcraft.
The Course Training Officer
Flight Lieutenant Chris Butler of
46F(Kensington) Squadron commented
“This is an important course not just to
ensure that they are competent staff
but also so that they can pass on the
skills to the cadets. I am very pleased
with how it has gone.”
Squadron Leader Pete Gourri, who
is the London Wing Adventure training
and Technical Officer said “It has been
an excellent weekend. The directing
Staff, Flight Lieutenants Chris Butler and
Anthony Barker, Warrant Officer John
Ingram and Sergeant Keith O’Sullivan
have done an excellent job with the
Adult Volunteers on the course and the
feedback has been outstanding.” ■
Flight Lieutenant Vic Taak RAFVR(T),
who instructed the course on their
photography skills, commented “This is a
great course to attend as the knowledge
gained can be taken back to squadrons
and passed to cadets as a way of
helping them to publicise the valuable
work which they are undertaking on
Squadrons.
“The students worked really hard on
the day and have every reason to feel
proud of themselves” Stated the Wing
Media and Communications Officer,
Squadron Leader Peter Gourri RAFVR(T) ■
17
OPERATION OVERLORD
Sussex Wing Cadets marched in the footsteps of heroes
of yesteryear on the Normandy beaches to raise money
for present day heroes through charity Help for Heroes.
The 24 cadets and staff, led by Flight
Lieutenant Dave Thompson, Officer
Commanding 172 (Haywards Heath)
Squadron, marched across all five of the
beaches that were used by the Allied Forces
for the D-Day Landings during World War
Two - Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword.
It is hoped the march – dubbed Operation
Overlord – will raise more than £4,000 for Help
for Heroes. Operation Overlord was the code
name for the invasion of northwest Europe
during World War II by Allied Forces. The
operation began with the Normandy Landings
on 6 June 1944 and was among the largest
amphibious assaults ever conducted, with nearly
160,000 troops crossing the English Channel on
D-Day.
The march began in the small town of
Quinéville where the cadets were warmly
welcomed by the Mayor, Monsieur Jacques
Laurent, and invited to join the town’s
ceremony of remembrance and a special
reception at the town hall.
With Union Jacks and Help for
Heroes’ flags flying, mascots attached to
backpacks and collection buckets at the
ready, the cadets began walking along
Utah Beach before tackling Omaha
Beach in the late afternoon.
At the end of the first day Cadet
Euan Bandall of 1015 (Horsham)
Squadron, the youngest member of the team
and a cadet for less than a year, said: “I didn’t find
it difficult walking Utah and Omaha Beaches as I
did a lot of hiking when I was
a Scout, and I think I could have pushed
myself further, but it was the right time to stop
as I was beginning to feel a bit tired! This is my
first camp with the Air Cadets and it is brilliant.
I’ve made new friends already, and the food is
great.”
Day Two saw a return to Omaha Beach to the
Normandy American Cemetery at
Colleville Sur Mer and a chance for the
cadets to pay their respects to the
9,387 fallen Americans laid to rest
there and to lay a wreath in
remembrance.
Tradition
dictates
that
18 The Laser Autumn 2012
the wreath is placed at the memorial by
the youngest cadet so Cadet Euan Bandall,
guided by a US veteran, stepped up to
perform this act of remembrance.
He said: “I was a bit nervous as I realised
the significance and importance of laying
a wreath, and in front of a lot of people,
but this is something I shall always
remember.”
The cadets returned to Quinéville
to take part in the ceremony of
remembrance. This small seaside town
was the scene of fierce resistance by the
Germans as the Allied Forces pushed
northwards to re-take Cherbourg after the
D-Day Landings.
Special guest of honour at the event
was 94-year-old Earl Geoffrion, who was
a rigger in the 507th Parachute Infantry
Regiment, part of the 101st Airborne
Division.
He had parachuted into occupied
France during D-Day and was later
decorated for his bravery.
He spent some time chatting
to the cadets, including
Cadet Joe Cullum from 461
(Chichester) Squadron
(pictured), about his
experiences more than 65 years ago.
The Mayor of Quinéville publicly paid
tribute to the cadets and invited them to
return again next year.
The second day of marching saw the
group arriving at Ouistreham for the threehour long march along Sword Beach.
On 6 June 1944, British and French
Commandos landed at Ouistreham
(Sword Beach) with two main objectives:
to capture the city of Caen, several miles
inland and to relieve the airborne forces
at Pegasus Bridge, lying along the Caen
Canal.
After a quick lunch stop, the team was
off again to march along Gold and Juno
Beaches. They stopped at the famous
‘Canadian House’, the first house liberated
by the Canadian Forces when they
landed on Juno Beach.
The cadets also visited
the small fishing port of
Courseulles sur Mer,
the scene of fierce
fighting on
D-Day.
Cadet Flight Sergeant Laura Ferguson
from 172 (Haywards Heath) Squadron said:
“Not only is this trip to France a fantastic
way to raise money for a charity that is
so close to our hearts, but it is also very
educational and executed perfectly by all
the staff who volunteer to go.
“I enjoyed every minute of it. I made
some great friends and have taken home
some experiences that I will never forget.
The Air Training Corps provides so
many opportunities for cadets and this is
definitely one to take!”
Sussex Wing intends to return to France
again next year and cadets interested in
taking part in the march should email
btec.sussex@aircadets.org for more
information. ■
19
www.laseratc.org
The Laser Autumn 2012
19
Around the Region
New Commandant on Parade
On Sunday 16th September, the
new Commandant of the Air Cadet
Organisation, Air Commodore Dawn
McCafferty RAF, attended her first
national ceremonial event as the
head of the nearly 60,000 strong
Organisation.
She attended the Annual Battle
of Britain Memorial Service held at
Westminster Abbey in London where local
cadets were well represented.
Air Commodore McCafferty said; "I was
delighted to meet staff and cadets from
Middlesex and London Wings” adding; "it
was an absolute pleasure to meet so many
smart, enthusiastic and friendly cadets
and it was great to talk with some of the
fantastic volunteers who are the backbone
of our Organisation. I hope the cadets
enjoyed the Service as much as I did and
were inspired by the bravery of The Few."
The cadets were happy to meet their
new Commandant for the first time and
they kept her chatting for some while! ■
Remembering ‘The Few’
Almost 300 cadets joined nearly 600
guests and 11 veterans of the Battle of
Britain at this year’s Memorial service
held at Capel le Ferne on the 15th July.
Following months of preparation by
the Battle of Britain Memorial Trust and
hoping for good weather, the rain kept
away for the 72nd anniversary service of
remembrance. As cadets arrived for the
rehearsal, under the ever watchful eye
of the Queens Colour Squadron (QCS)
Sergeant Spencer and the Kent’s Wing
Warrant Officer Hollamby, the sun began
to shine. Jerseys were discarded and smiles
appeared but it wasn’t long before the
clouds returned, actually making life more
pleasant for those going to be on the
parade.
The guests duly arrived, welcomed by
a Guard of Honour from 99 (Folkestone)
Sqn and CWO Chris Mellor of 2513 (New
Romney) Sqn, the Lord Lt’s Cadet for Kent.
The reviewing Officer Air Chief Marshal Sir
Stephen Dalton, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS)
then arrived, met by senior members of
the trust. They all watched as the Parade
Commander Flt Lt Matt Hurry of the QCS
marched on the parade.
The RAFA and other standards were
carried proudly by their bearers, medals
Bomber Command Memorial Unveiling
On Thursday the 28th of June 2012
a contingent of LASER Cadets and
Uniformed Staff, led by Flt Lt H Tanner
RAFVR(T), volunteered to assist with
the Bomber Command Memorial
Unveiling in Green Park, central
London.
It has taken some years for this
memorial to come into existence but
now it is here it looks magnificent.
In total approximately 70 Cadets and
Uniformed staff attended to assist with
the ceremony.
We all met in the shadows of
Buckingham Palace at 0715 hours. Shortly
after we were given a brief and split into
groups for a wide range of duties for the
day. These duties included Programme
Distributors, First Aid Assistant, VIP
Escorts, Orderlies and other general
duties too.
However I was detailed serving duties
in the VIP refreshment tents with my
group which included FS (ATC) Martin
O’Cock and FS (ATC) Tom Levett and
18 Cadets. We were working alongside
trainees and their staff from the Royal Air
Force Catering College who had provided
a wide range of refreshments for all the
visitors. It was the task of the cadets to
serve tea/coffee and food to all the guests.
This gave them the chance to speak to the
veterans who all had an interesting story
to tell.
High ranking Officers of the Royal Air
Force and Royal Navy were in attendance
along with members of Armed Forces
from across the world including Australia,
New Zeeland, United States of America,
Canada to name a few. However, more
importantly the Veterans and their families
were there too with their Medals polished
and heads held high. It was an inspiring
and emotional moment to witness those
Veterans that had not seen each other
since World War 2 finally reunited.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, HRH
Price Charles and HRH the Duchess of
Cornwall attended the ceremony to
unveil the Memorial. Air Chief Marshal Sir
Steven Dalton, Chief of the Air Staff, gave
a moving speech which paid tribute to
those men and women that served in
Bomber Command both living and lost.
The speech was received well by all the
guests.
I think I can speak on behalf of the
entire LASER contingent when I say it
was an honour speaking to, serving
and assisting both the Veterans and
their families on what was a glorious
summer day. A fitting Memorial for an
extraordinary group of people.
We Will Remember Them ■
20 The Laser Autumn 2012
Around the Region
glinting in the weak sunshine, the Kent
Wing and ATC banners, and finally the RAF
ensign were then marched on. The general
salute was given spot on time as the roar
of the familiar Merlin engines of the Battle
of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire and
Hurricane was heard overhead for the fly
past salute.
Once the parade was over and
everyone had marched off, the cadets
were addressed privately by CAS who
had nothing but praise for the cadets and
staff taking part. Extolling the virtues of
the ACO, its high standards of drill and
discipline as well as its ability to develop
and motivate young people to make sure
they make the most of each and every
opportunity. Praise indeed from a high
flying ex cadet.
OC Kent Wing, Wg Cdr Garrod-Bell
summed up the day saying, “This was a day
when Kent Wing once again showed all
present the exceptional capabilities of our
cadets and the professionalism of our staff.”
Surrey Remember the
Canadian Few
Surrey Wing paid tribute to “The Few”
at the annual Battle of Britain parade at
Brookwood cemetery.
This year the parade was in the
Canadian section due to refurbishment
work at the RAF shelter. Cadets planted
crosses of remembrance at the headstones
of Canadian Airmen and Officers lost
during the Second World War. ■
www.laseratc.org
Sussex Wing Kit Plane at Goodwood Revival
The Sussex Wing Kit Plane has made
its first appearance at the Goodwood
Revival. Sited in an area known as
"Over the Road", the team have spent
three very busy days showcasing the
two thirds scale Spitfire which was
extremely popular with families whose
young children sat in the cockpit
to have their photograph taken, as
well as chatting with the cadets from
2351 (Bognor) and 461 (Chichester)
Squadrons.
Cadets and staff were dressed in
uniforms similar to those of the 1940s era,
which drew attention from many other
groups of people including some famous
names. The team had a visit from Nick
Mason, famous drummer in the band
Pink Floyd and who played in the closing
ceremony of the Olympic Games! Sir
Stirling Moss, well know rally driver from
the 1940s to 1960s took a few minutes
away from a book signing session to meet
the cadets, and even Lord March, who
owns Goodwood, found time to stop and
meet the cadets.
Flight Lieutenant Graham Pike, Deputy
Wing Media Communications Officer
(MCO) for Sussex Wing, who has spent
time working in the Royal Observer
Corps, donned his old uniform and gave a
practical demonstration on how to sound
the air raid warning by using the genuine
article, on loan from the Museum at
Tangmere, which also alerted everyone to
our presence "Over the Road" because it is
very loud!
With practical advice from the RAF
Museum, Flight Lieutenant Trishia Welsh,
Sussex Wing MCO joined in the fun as the
WAAF Mechanic for the weekend. Trishia
said; "Goodwood Revival attracts families
from all over England and the Continent,
with some of
our visitors also
from Australia.
Because the Kit
Plane is so
unique and the
cadets really
looked the
part, we were a popular exhibit with many
photographs taken and questions asked
by the "Revivors" not only about the plane
but about the Air Cadets, which really put
the Organisation on the map over the
weekend. We are all looking forward to
going back next year with both the Spitfire
and Hurricane, the build of which is going
well" ■
21
Around the Region
Councillor David Grant, the Mayor
of The Royal Borough of Greenwich
along with Colonel Cyril Young, the
Representative Deputy Lieutenant
for the Borough recently presented
Cadet Sergeant Sam O'Hara (16) with
his Deputy Lieutenant's Certificate at
the Woolwich Town Hall.
“Sam was nominated for this award
for continuously performing his duties
with dedication, enthusiasm and
professionalism. Sam is a credit to the
Corps and his Squadron and leads by
example at all times - setting him apart
as a role model for his fellow cadets. He
is always the first to volunteer for any
duty and always there to offer advice
and guidance to the cadets in his
charge.
I am very pleased that Sam has
been recognized for his service to
the Borough, he has been with the
squadron since 2009 and has been
instrumental in helping to rebuild the
squadron to it currant strength and
standing within the Wing” said his
Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutenant
Mark Bird.
Sam has just finished his Bronze
Duke of Edinburgh Award, has qualified
as a Master Air Cadet and will shortly
and will shortly be working towards his
Instructor Cadet Qualification and BTEC
in Public Services.
After the presentation ceremony,
a delighted Sam said; “I felt extremely
privileged and proud to have been
nominated for this award and I look
forward to carrying out my duties for
the next twelve months to assist the
Deputy Lord Lieutenant of the Borough.”
Haringey’s Youth in victory march to Civic Centre
Over a hundred of Haringey’s
uniformed cadets together with Scouts
marched proudly from the Scouts Park
at Bounds Green to the Civic Centre in
early July to hear which of them was
the winner of the third annual inter
group skills competition.
The Air Cadet Band led the column of
smart young people proudly wearing their
organisations’ uniforms. Throughout the
day The Scouts Park was a hive of activity
as teams pitted their wits against each
other, meeting challenges and showing off
the various skills learned in their groups.
Formed up in neat lines outside the
Civic Centre a huge cheer went up when
the competition winner was announced
as 16F (Wood Green & Hornsey) Squadron,
flanked by the Mayor Councillor David
Browne, Deputy Lieutenant Rosemary
Warne and other senior leaders, Colonel
Hugh Purcell, chairman of YOU (Youth
Organisations in Uniform)who presented
the sought after shield to the winning
team.
Speaking afterwards the Mayor said “I’ve
been very impressed by the turnout of the
cadets and scouts. This parade is important
to show that young people in our borough
are active and that there are opportunities
both for them and for adult volunteers to
take part in.”
Deputy Lieutenant Rosemary Warne
MBE who has been a driving force behind
this initiative, commented, “This is the third
year that we have held this competition,
coinciding with Armed Forces Day. It was
to bring together our local cadets and
youth organisations so that the young
people and their adult instructors could
meet up and learn from one another. This
cooperation has developed, for example
the Scouts have been able to offer much
needed accommodation to the Volunteer
Police Cadets. The competition is to bring
everyone together in a spirit of fun to
show each other the skills and learning
that their individual organisations offer.
This weekend has been uplifting with all
the cadets and scouts fully participating.
It’s been a lot of hard work on the part of
both the young people and the adults.
I’d like to thank Flight Lieutenant Ralph
Kamper, for his contribution and everyone
who played a part in making this such a
success for the people of Haringey.” ■
Photo: Capt Michael Nolan ACF
Woolwich Air Cadet
Honoured By DL
Sittingbourne Firm Supports Cadets’ BTEC Award
2230 (Sittingbourne) Squadron ATC
celebrated another Level 1 success in
September. As part of a very generous
sponsorship by Sittingbourne based
Eurobond Adhesives five Cadets from
the Squadron together with five other
local Army and Sea Cadets were able
to complete their CVQO led Level 1
BTEC in Teamwork, Personal Skills
and Citizenship. Managing Director
Simon Dearing was pleased to visit
the Squadron and present one of the
Cadets Conaugh Fawcett with his
Certificate.
This is a bespoke qualification written
and designed by CVQO to encourage
young people to take part in Vocational
Qualifications. The Syllabus includes
working as a team, taking responsibility,
volunteering and self-reliance the sort of
skills that will prepare a young person for
today’s challenges in life.
Simon said “As a local employer I am
pleased to be able to fund this programme
as the Cadet Forces develop key skills that
will be required when young people move
into the work place” Flight Lieutenant
Hannah Fulford added “The programme
has been a great success and a couple of
the Cadets as a direct result of taking their
level 1 BTEC have now taken up their Duke
of Edinburgh Bronze Award” ■
22 The Laser Autumn 2012
Around the Region
Diamond Air Cadet Officer From Deal Recognised by Stagecoach Buses
Early in 2012, an initiative was launched
by the bus company Stagecoach, in the
Queen's Diamond Jubilee year, to find
people who deserve recognition for
what they do for the community.
Passengers on the Stagecoach
Diamond bus network were asked to
nominate people who they thought had
contributed most.
A team from Stagecoach selected four
who shone out of all the nominees and
who now feature on their own bus.
One of the "local diamonds" selected
was Flight Lieutenant Geoff Hobbs-East,
Officer Commanding No. 2235 (Deal)
Squadron. Flt Lt Hobbs-East was secretly
nominated by family, friends and squadron
members not only for his operational
administration but also fund-raising
to enhance facilities and equipment
including a new minibus & trailer and
flight simulator since becoming Squadron
Commander in 2008.
Members of 2235 Squadron, family and
friends were invited to Pencester Gardens
in Dover to the official press launch
which was followed by a lunch at Dover
Town Hall. The buses were presented to
the recipients by The Right Worshipful
The Town Mayor of Dover Cllr Mrs Anne
Smith, MP for Deal and Dover Mr Charlie
Elphicke and the Mr Paul Southgate the
Commercial Manager of Stagecoach UK
Bus. The 2235 Squadron Band were also
invited to play on the bandstand as part of
the event.
"This was a complete surprise" Flt Lt
Hobbs-East said "but I was pleased to
accept this unusual honour on behalf of
everyone at 2235 Squadron, especially
the adult staff, without whom none of
this would have happened. My thanks
also go Stagecoach who have gone out
of their way to make all 4 of the recipients
feel special. That said, I have heard every
variant of the joke about looking like the
back of a bus!"
The buses will feature the "local
diamonds" for up to a year in addition to
which Stagecoach have also offered the
Squadron one free use of the Squadron
Commanders bus during that time. ■
East Ham Air Cadets Receive First Ever Commandant’s Commendation
Photos: Flt Lt Vik Singh RAFVR(T)
282 (East Ham) Squadron Air
Cadets have received the first ever
Commandants Commendation award
for their performance in reaching the
finals of the Sir Alan Lees Trophy.
The Squadron received the award from
Air Commodore Barbara Cooper RAF CBE,
who was accompanied by her successor,
Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty who
was on her first ever visit to an Air Cadet
Squadron.
The Commandant informed the
Squadron and assembled guests that
she had decided to create and award the
commendation to mark 282’s “excellent
performance and effort for an inner city
squadron” on seeing them during the Sir
Alan Lees Trophy Competition.
Among the guests were the Master,
Wardens and Clerk of the Worshipful
Company of Plaisterers, who have had an
affiliation
with 282 Squadron
since 2011.
The
evening was the
last official
engagement
for
the Master
www.laseratc.org
Plaisterer Mr Peter Baker, so the
Commandant, on behalf of the Squadron
presented him with a certificate of thanks
and a silver bugle to mark his contribution
to developing the affiliation with the
Plaisterers and his fundraising initiative
to purchase new instruments for the
Squadron band.
Following the presentation ceremony
the Commandant and Air Commodore
McCafferty spent time with
the honoured guests,
staff and members of
the Squadron Civilian
Committee before
being shown
around the
Squadron. During
their tour of the
Squadron Air
Commodore
McCafferty got to
display her skills on
the flight simulator
whilst the Commandant demonstrated
her musical talents on the Bugle as they
viewed some of the new instruments
purchased through the efforts of the
Plaisterers. The Commandant and Air
Commodore then moved on to help the
new recruits with the practical part of their
heart start class.
The visit ended with the Commandant
addressing the Squadron and singling out
Cadet Sergeant Sarah Allen to inform her
she was on parade “improperly dressed”
before promoting her to Cadet Flight
Sergeant and presenting her with the
‘correct’ rank slides.
Officer Commanding 282 Squadron,
Flight Lieutenant Chris Booty said after the
successful evening; “it is truly an honour for
the Squadron to have not one, but two Air
Commodore’s visit especially as we are the
first Squadron for the new Commandant
to see. Everyone at 282 Squadron has
worked so hard to get it to where it is
today and I am immensely proud of the
whole team. We have had our challenges,
but we’ve overcome them together and
continue to flourish. We were delighted to
receive the Commandants Commendation
tonight.” ■
Above: Flt Lt Booty receives the
Commendation from Air Cdre Cooper
Left: Incoming Commandant Air Cadets,
Air Cdre McCafferty tries the flight sim.
23
Around the Region
Promotion for Hailsham Volunteer
Newly appointed Warrant Officer
Tina Calvert received her promotion
certificate from Officer Commanding
249 (Hailsham) Squadron, Craig
Tompson.
Tina’s’ current appointment was
recommended by OC Sussex Wing and
the Wing Warrant Officer. Warrant Officer
Calvert is one of only two female Drill
and Discipline specialists within Sussex
Wing, was also one of the first Sergeants
to take up post in the new Corps adult
Brighton Squadron Welcomes New Sergeant
226 (Brighton) Squadron, Sussex Wing challenge as Senior Non-Commissioned
welcomed a new member of staff,
Officer (SNCO) in Charge of Discipline - an
Sergeant Kerry Harnes.
area she’s always had an interest in.
Sergeant Harnes joined the Squadron
226 (Brighton) Squadron have been
early July having spent over a year as
without an SNCO Discipline since Flight
a Civilian Instructor at 1140 (Steyning)
Sergeant Danny Smith left the unit to join
Squadron. Before passing her Sergeant’s
the Central Training Team at Headquarters
board in March she was the Adjutant
Air Cadets in December 2011.
at Steyning Squadron, but after going
Sergeant Harnes said; “I’m looking
into uniform wanted to take on a new
forward to the challenge of a new
structure. She has worked extremely hard
and has been a dedicated Senior None
Commissioned Officer (SNCO), not only to
her Squadron but to the Wing for over 8
years.
Flight Lieutenant Criag Tompson said
“This promotion to the highest rank in the
SNCO structure is richly deserved. Very few
Cadet Forces Adult Volunteers will ever
achieve this rank.”
Staff and Cadets congratulated Tina on
gaining her promotion at the ceremony
held at the Squadron Headquarters. ■
Squadron and role. I’m excited about
developing the cadets in all areas of
drill, dress and discipline as it’s a very
important part, not only of cadet life, but
for civilian employment too.
After completing her SNCO Staff
Initial Course at RAF Cranwell in August,
Sergeant Harnes intends to add to
her communications and first aid
qualifications by completing her Staff
Drill Instructor’s Course. ■
Meet the New London and SE Region Chaplain
Kent Wing ExO Retires
A message from the new London
and South East Region Chaplain, the
Reverend Canon David Nason:
I took over as your Region Chaplain
on 1st January this year following the
retirement of the Reverend Christopher
Miles who had held the post for a number
of years. Firstly, I would like to pay a great
tribute to the Reverend Miles for all of
his hard work and for leaving the region
chaplaincy in such good order. You may
remember that he was our preacher at the
Region service held in St. Clement Danes
Church last February.
You may wonder what a Region
Chaplain has to do. Being new in post
I am still finding out but through the
Wing Chaplains, we have six in our
region, my main job is to ensure
that each squadron has a chaplain.
The chaplain or padre as some
of you call him or her is a very
important person in the life of the
squadron. Not only do they admit
all cadets into the Corps but
they also arrange ‘Padre’s
Hour’ when you have
a chance to discuss
some very important
moral and ethical
After nearly 10 years in post,
Squadron Leader Bushby has retired
as the Kent Wing Executive Officer.
With previous full time service as an
RAF Officer, Sqn Ldr Bushby adapted
quickly to the considerable 'challenges'
of being a full time Officer in a part time
voluntary organisation. Working long
hours and many evenings to ensure
that the wheels were kept moving.
His attention to detail, considerable
knowledge, contacts and sage counsel
was appreciated by many across the
Wing.
On Sqn Ldr Bushby's last official
day in post, the Wing Chairman, Flt Lt
(retd) Cliff Mullins, visited Wing HQ on
behalf of Wg Cdr Garrod Bell, OCKW,
who was unable to attend due to work
commitments, to present Sqn Ldr
Bushby with a retirement gift of a Wing
crest, mounted in a frame with a plaque.
Wg Cdr Garrod-Bell said: "I know
that over the coming months the Wing
will realise just how many tasks Sqn Ldr
Bushby dealt with and the professional
way he undertook his duties. On behalf
of the cadets and staff of Kent Wing
I would like to wish him a long and
enjoyable retirement". ■
issues. Also they are always there to lend
a listening ear if you have any personal
problems or if you just need to chat. Make
sure you always make good use of your
Chaplain.
Part of my job is also to arrange
meetings twice a year with all the Wing
Chaplains to discuss chaplaincy matters,
to talk about any problems we may
experience and to discuss ways in which
we could do our jobs more efficiently.
A very important task that I have to
perform is to arrange the annual L&SER
service at St. Clement Danes in central
London. It is a wonderful opportunity
to give thanks to God for the Air Cadet
Organisation and to pray for his
blessing on all of our work and on
all of our squadrons. It is also a
wonderful opportunity for me to
meet many of you as you attend
the service and I shall look
forward to that next February.
When I am not being L&SER
Chaplain, I am Chaplain to 461
(Chichester) Squadron and
I am also a Canon on
the staff of Chichester
Cathedral. ■
24 The Laser Autumn 2012
Around the Region
Commendation for
London Volunteer
Sussex Wing Volunteers Wear Their Uniforms With
Pride on Uniform to Work Day
One of London Wing’s longest
serving and dedicated adult
volunteers, Flight Lieutenant Phil
Ralph RAFVR(T) has been awarded
an Air Officer Commanding
Commendation. This award
recognises more than 30 years of
service in the Air Cadet Organisation.
The Air Officer Commanding
Commendation is awarded for
distinguished service undertaken by
an individual. The note attached to his
commendation said:
“Flt Lt Ralph has made a remarkable
contribution to the training and
organisation of Nijmegen marches for
London Wing, as well as displaying
distinctive leadership in other distance
marching events” explained Squadron
Leader Pete Gourri, London Wing
Adventure Training Officer.
“Flt Lt Ralph’s work as Wing Duke of
Edinburgh Award Officer (in particular,
his concept of Wing and Region Gold
Expeditions) has benefited hundreds
of cadets. In the area of shooting, his
role has varied from the development
of the roving Range Conducting Officer
open days, improving accessibility to
shooting and steering many teams to
competition success. In addition to
all of these activities, Flt Lt Ralph has
continued to be the mainstay of No 82
(Wandsworth) Squadron.”
Officer Commanding London
Wing, Wing Commander Bob Naeem
RAFVR(T) commented; “I can think of no
one more deserving
than Flt Lt Ralph
to receive this
award. He is a
hard-working and
dedicated person
who has done
an enormous
amount of
work over the
last 30 years
affecting
the lives of
thousands
of young
people in
the Air Cadet
Organisation.
Flight Lieutenant Jackie Pelling, Officer
Commanding 1414 (Crowborough)
Squadron, Sussex Wing attended
her regular place of work in uniform
to highlight the work of the Reserve
Forces and to support the regular
Armed Forces both here and abroad.
As well as running the Squadron, Jackie
is the Volunteer Reserve representative at
the Royal Air Force (RAF) Club in Piccadilly,
Central London. Jackie regularly attends
meetings and is actively involved in the
organisation of social events. She has
been gearing up for a visit to the RAF
Club by HM The Queen who, as Patron,
is attending a lunch with the Trustees in
honour of her Diamond Jubilee.
Flying Officer Katie Calvert RAF VR(T)
from Sussex Wing felt it was important
to wear her uniform to work to make
more of the public aware of the work
undertaken for young people in the Air
Cadet Organisation.
Katie has been involved with the Air
Cadets for 17 years, first spending 9 as
a cadet on 249 (Hailsham) Squadron
where she worked her way through the
cadet ranks to Cadet Warrant Officer. She
enjoyed her time as a cadet so much that
she wanted to give the next generation
the same opportunities she’d experienced
so decided to volunteer.
Katie has been an adult
volunteer for the past 8
years and currently serves
as a Squadron Officer at
2262 (Bexhill) Squadron.
She is also the Radio Officer
for the Wing.
Katie works at a petrol
station in Hailsham, East
Sussex and decided
wearing her uniform to
work could be a great way to make the
general public more aware of both the Air
Cadet Organisation and the work it does
for young people and the volunteering
opportunities available for adults.
Katie said; “I had lots of questions
from the public asking me what it was
all about and people were genuinely
supportive. I also told them that I was not
just representing the Reserve Forces but
also showing my support for the Regular
Military Personnel serving both here in the
UK and those on active service overseas.”
Katie plans to wear her uniform with
pride again next year.
Hospital Medical Secretary surprises
patients by wearing her uniform to
work.
Flight Lieutenant Trishia Welsh (pictured
above), a Staff Officer from Sussex Wing
took great pride in the opportunity to
wear her uniform to work. Trishia works
in a hospital as a medical secretary for an
opthamlic consultant.
Trishia is also a very proud volunteer
with the Air Cadet Organisation,
something she’s enjoyed doing over the
past 10 years, juggling responsibility for
the Media & Communications for Sussex
Wing plus looking after the Wing Band and
a Kit Plane Display Team.
“I am very proud to wear my uniform.
Since the inception of Armed Forces Day
and the Wear Your Uniform to Work Day,
I have embraced this opportunity to
show my support for
the Armed Forces by
wearing my uniform
to my normal place of
work. I also wanted
to make people aware
of the good work done
by the Reserve Forces
both here and overseas. I
have to go to various departments within
the hospital throughout the day, so a lot
of people saw me in my uniform. I was
stopped by quite a few of the patients
when I went from my office to the
Outpatient Department, who asked about
the uniform, including a 91 year old ex-RAF
fireman! Another elderly lady of 91 and
originally from Dresden, was so impressed
when she heard what I did in my spare
time as a volunteer that she has decided to
make a small donation to Sussex Wing!” ■
25
www.laseratc.org
The Laser Autumn 2012
25
Staff Awards and Appointments
Adult Senior Non Commissioned Officers
The following staff have recently been appointed as a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer in the Air Training
Corps within the Region.
Essex Wing
Sergeant S H Webb, 1483 (Brentwood) Sqn
Kent Wing
Sergeant R Roberts, 312 (City Of Canterbury) Sqn
Sergeant M Sullivan, 358 (Welling) Sqn
London Wing
Sergeant L Smith, 4 OS (Gütersloh) Sqn
Sergeant C Botley, 8 OS (Rheindahlen) Sqn
Sergeant S K Kilminster, 48 (Hamstead) Sqn
Sergeant D Faulkner, 4F (Ilford) Sqn
Middlesex Wing
Sergeant L K Heelan, 120 (Hendon) Sqn
Sergeant S P Lay, 94 (Feltham) Sqn
Sergeant J E Hurst, 1159 (Edmonton) Sqn
Sergeant D Humphreys, 862 (Sunbury)Sqn
Surrey Wing
Sergeant S Aspin, 261 (Guildford) Sqn
Sussex Wing
Sergeant C S Wakeford, 304 (Battle) Det Flt
Sergeant J Perkins, 45F (Worthing) Sqn
Civilian Instructors
The following staff have recently been appointed as a Civilian Instructor in the Air Training Corps within the
Region.
Essex Wing
A Fuller, 309 (Sawbridgeworth) Sqn
D M Clancy, 1163 (Colne Valley) Sqn
L A Higgs, 309 (Sawbridgeworth) Sqn
J Harrison, 2317 (Harlow) Sqn
C A Rivett, 1830 (Tendring Hundred) Sqn
S S J Fisher, 1312 (Southend-on-Sea) Sqn
E Tele, 1312 (Southend-on-Sea) Sqn
T E King, 414 (Epping & North Weald) Sqn
D Brown, 999 (Dunmow) Sqn
Middlesex Wing
M T Harrison , 862 (Sunbury) Sqn
M A J Moore, 342 (Ealing & Brentford) Sqn
M P Carter, 1083 (Uxbridge) Sqn
J L Chering, 1374 (East Barnet) Sqn
H Patel, 2236 (Stanmore) Sqn
R R Dorai, 86 (Heston & Isleworth) Sqn
A R Soden, 862 (Sunbury) Sqn
M Connolly, 393 (Finchley) Sqn
M J Collins, 862 (Sunbury) Sqn
A D J Harley, 85 (Enfield & Southgate) Sqn
Surrey Wing
C R Elliott, 328 (Kingston-Upon-Thames) Sqn
R J Davis, 285 (Coulsdon & Purley) Sqn
D S Stride, 450 (Kenley) Sqn
E P Tierney, 97 (Croydon) Sqn
A Ahmad, 219 (Sutton & Cheam) Sqn
P J Greening, 144 (Richmond) Sqn
L J Bellamy, 66 (Selsdon) Sqn
O S Chappell, 219 (Sutton & Cheam) Sqn
E A Lnadymore, 450 (Kenley) Sqn
E Rogers, 219 (Sutton & Cheam) Sqn
P A Downey, 1075 (Camberley) Sqn
E Jennings, 565 (New Malden & Raynes Park) Sqn
I S Baker, 1408 (Cranleigh) Det Flt
L Myers, 261 (Guildford) Sqn
J W Francis, 285 (Coulsdon & Purley) Sqn
S E Stace, 11F (Brooklands) Sqn
D J W Titmarsh, 229 (Farnham) Sqn
F A Stj Rushton, 1254 (Godalming) Sqn
L A Woolterton, 350 (Carshalton & Wallington)
Sqn
R Ronaldson, 135 (Reigate & Redhill) Sqn
London Wing
S Serbis, 343 (Camberwell) Sqn
N Baykis at 1475 (Dulwich) Sqn
L Smith, 291 (Westminster & Chelsea) Sqn
Z L Jolin, 56 (Woolwich) Sqn
L E C Scally, 2324 (Chigwell) Sqn
T Clarke-Roseman, 444 (Shoreditch) Sqn
A Zachariades, 1475 (Dulwich) Sqn
R Wraith, 34 (Balham & Tooting) Sqn
M Badul, 12 (Walthamstow) Sqn
S M A Shah, 1475 (Dulwich) Sqn
J Oyinlola, 291 (Westminster & Chelsea) Sqn
Kent Wing
N J Wardell, 312 (City Of Canterbury) Sqn
A Wilkinson, 312 (City Of Canterbury) Sqn
J W Nash, 340 (Edenbrdige) Sqn
A M Hart, 99 (Folkestone) Sqn
P F Ottersen, 99 (Folkestone) Sqn
C J Lancaster, 312 (City Of Canterbury) Sqn
L J Gilbert, 99 (Folkestone) Sqn
A M Parnell, 1242 (Faversham) Sqn
S D Reed, 1404 (Chatham) Sqn
A M Kealy, 438 (Thanet) Sqn
A Hogan, 2427 (Biggin Hill) Sqn
26 The Laser Autumn 2012
Staff Awards and Appointments
C Lawson, 438 (Thanet) Sqn
A Copeland, 358 (Welling) Sqn
C Collins, 1579 (Erith School) Sqn
K Ginn, 129 (Tunbridge Wells) Sqn
V J Preston, 438 (Thanet) Sqn
G Spreadbury, 228 (Bromley) Sqn
G N Keep, 2433 (Ramsgate) Sqn
M A Baxter, 359 (Bexleyheath) Sqn
L J Hamilton, 1227 (Sidcup) Sqn
Sussex Wing
J A Gordon-Hall, 172 (Haywards Heath) Sqn
F E Whittington, 176 (Hove) Sqn
K S H Rawlins, 1015 (Horsham) Sqn
G N Scott, 1140 (Steyning) Sqn
J Corps, 225 (Brighton No 1) Sqn
S A Walker, 225 (Brighton No 1) Sqn
J A Kistnasamy, 225 (Brighton No 1) Sqn
K Collison, 249 (Hailsham) Sqn
A Campbell, 225 (Brighton No 1) Sqn
D Bradley, 304 (Hastings) Sqn
R C Davies, 304 (Battle) Det Flt
A M Read, 1140 (Steyning) Sqn
N D Loftus, 1343 (East Grinstead) Sqn
S M Bacon, 45 (Worthing) Sqn
J Stagg, 1414 (Crowborough) Sqn
D A J Merriman, 19 (Crawley) Sqn
Honorary Squadron Chaplains
The following staff have recently been appointed as a Squadron Chaplain in the Air Training Corps within the
Region.
Essex
Father T Barnes, 158 (Braintree) Sqn
Reverend T M Bull, 308 (Colchester) Sqn
Reverend J R Sawtell, 1476 (Rayleigh) Sqn
London
Reverend F Ashford-Okai, 282 (East Ham) Sqn
Reverend P P Welsh, 291 (Westminster &
Chelsea) Sqn
Kent
Reverend P Clark, 249 (Hailsham) Sqn
Awards
The following staff have recently received awards for their work with the Air Cadet Organsation.
London Wing
Air Officer Commanding Commendation
Flight Lieutenant Phil Ralph of 82 (Wandsworth) Squadron
Defence Council Letter of Appreciation
Warrant Officer Les R Brandon of 82 (Wandsworth) Squadron
Miss Linda Bonner of 241 (Wanstead & Woodford) Squadron
Clasp to the Cadet Forces Medal
Squadron Leader Jerry Godden of 241 (Wanstead & Woodford) Squadron
Cadet Forces Medal for 12 years service
Flying Officer Richard Walsh of 1475 (Dulwich) Squadron
Flying Officer Nick Harvey of 241 (Wanstead & Woodford) Squadron
Commandant Air Cadets Commendation
Squadron Leader Julian Loxton
Flight Lieutenant Ian Perring of 296 (Stoke Newington) Squadron
Flight Lieutenant Russ Hollington of 2048 (Dagenham) Squadron
Mr Richard Barnes of 241 (Wanstead & Woodford) Squadron
The next edition of The LaSER is due out in December. If you have any news stories for our
next edition, please email them along with high resolution images to
media.laser@aircadets.org.
www.laseratc.org
27
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