Spring 20101

THE PURR-FECT JOB Ex-air cadet Becky Frater leads the Black Cats On a mission Face to face with SAS hero Andy McNab on your radar Reviews, competitions and much more! CADET150 TAKES OFF !

With Royal Seal Of Approval 2 air cadet / spring 2010 this issue:

RAPTUROUS RETURN The F-22 Raptor returns to RIAT this summer, two years afters its planned UK debut was rained off

0416_09SJD © Crown Copyright / MOD 2010 3

A Message From The Editor ... t’s all systems go for Cadet150

I as the celebrations begin around the country, launched in London by Her Majesty The Queen.

It will be a hugely exciting year for cadets everywhere: there are events planned the length and breadth of the country throughout the year so make sure you are involved and ‘Live the Adventure’.

I’d like to draw your attention to the article 4 on CVQO’s adult qualifications – could you be ALL SYSTEMS GO missing out? Lorraine Hearsey from CVQO thinks Cadet150 Receives so –she believes too few adults realise that their voluntary work can be rewarded with academic Royal Seal Of Approval awards. Read the article on pages 24 and 25 and find out if you are one of them!

Throughout this issue you will find glowing examples of achievements from across the ACO – 29 from life-saving rescues, challenging expeditions

PASS NOTES and a host of well-deserved accolades and awards. This year’s Music Camp Launched in this edition too is Radar – our special review which, as well as including book reviews, will also feature competitions and news of forthcoming events. I hope you enjoy our new-look Air Cadet and I look forward to hearing your views and news in 2010 – the Cadet150 year. Carol McCombe Editor, AIR CADET

9 AIR CADET Is Sponsored By: GONE WITH THE WIND Cadets on round25 the worldFRAMED voyage Prize Winning Photos 2009

26 CAREERING FORWARD Finding the job that fits perfectly

Managing Editor Denise Parker Housby email: [email protected] Editor Carol McCombe email: [email protected]

Account Director Anthon Linton, Mongoose Media, 2 Lonsdale Road, London, NW6 6RB Tel: 020 7306 0300 Design Steve J Davies, Air Media Centre, HQ Air Command.

AIR CADET is printed by Warners Midlands plc, The Maltings, Manor Lane, Bourne PE10 9PH Tel: 01778 391000.

Every care has been taken in the preparation of this magazine, but neither Warners plc nor the ACO can be held responsible for the accuracy of the information herein, or any consequence arising from it. Views expressed by contributors and customers might not reflect the views of the ACO. 4 air cadet / spring 2010 ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL FOR

“2010 is a great year to be involved with the cadet movement. Cadet150 will be celebrated throughout the UK and I’m sure it will further enhance all of the positive things that the Cadet Forces do.” Commandant Air Cadets, Air Commodore Ian Stewart

group of young ambassadors Cadet150 will see 150 events take place Minister for Young Citizens and Youth have kicked off a series around the UK during 2010 which have Engagement, Dawn Butler, and Under A been planned to reflect the spirit of fun, Secretary of State for Defence, Kevan Jones. of events, which will take place excitement, adventure and community They also visited the Ministry of Defence to this year, celebrating the 150th service which is at the heart of the cadet meet senior Service personnel. movement. anniversary of the launch One of the ambassadors, Air Cadet Lucy of the cadet movement, with a The year of anniversary events honours the Scudder, said: “Being a cadet is great. There role the Cadet Forces play in assisting young are so many opportunities. You can do lots of visit to Her Majesty The Queen. people towards responsible adulthood different things such as adventure training. through learning new skills and developing Before I became a cadet, I didn’t have a lot of self-confidence, and celebrates the confidence, but now I am able to walk into a contribution the young people themselves room full of people and I’m fine.” make to their local communities. In the evening the cadets enjoyed a reception As patron of Cadet150, the Queen kicked at Lancaster House hosted by the Ulysses off the celebrations along with His Royal Trust and the Council of the Reserve Forces Highness The Duke of Edinburgh when she and Cadets Association. The Ulysses Trust greeted a group of 26 cadets from across the exists to support challenging expeditions country at a special reception at Buckingham by cadets and reservists and adventurer, Palace. explorer and world record holder Sir Ranulph Fiennes attended the event in support of the As well as visiting the Queen, the 26 cadets Cadet150 expedition to Lesotho later this also travelled to Downing Street to meet year. 5 ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL FOR

Commandant of the ACO, Air Cdre Ian Stewart, said: “The launch of Cadet150 has On The Agenda been a great success. I joined cadets from For Cadet150 across the for a visit to the • This month a tri-Service Cadet150 Ministry of Defence and Number 10 Downing band concert at the Royal Concert Hall, Street. Nottingham “It was a surreal experience to see the cadet • A royal review and parade as well as a ambassadors mingle with the Chief of garden party at Buckingham Palace Defence Staff and other senior officers as well as Ministers and other government officials. “All the young people were a credit to their respective Cadet organisations and brought the day to life with their energy and enthusiasm. “We can now look forward to many more Cadet150 events over the next few months. There is no doubt that the Cadet organisations in the United Kingdom form part of the best youth movement in the • Expedition to Lesotho in July with world.” 60 cadets and 10 volunteers from across the Cadet Forces. It will involve General Secretary of the Army Cadet Force trekking and helping with community Association, Brigadier Mike Wharmby, added: projects “We are delighted to be celebrating 150 years of this fantastic movement. • DofE residential course for 150 Gold Award cadets at Britannia Royal Naval “The Cadet Forces offer such great College, Dartmouth opportunities for thousands of young people across the UK. We are encouraging • Inter-Cadet Force shooting people to find out more through Cadet150 event at Bisley - come along and ‘Live the Adventure’!” Cadet150 events throughout 2010 will include a royal review of the Cadet Forces at Buckingham Palace in July; expeditions to locations as diverse as the Himalayas, Nigeria, the Italian Dolomites, Peru, the USA, Kenya and Nigeria; a special residential camp for cadets participating in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award; and the planting of 150,000 trees in partnership with the Woodland Trust. • Cadets will plant 150,000 trees supplied by the Woodland Trust With origins dating back to 1860, the cadet movement is one of the oldest • Inter-Cadet Force First Aid Competition and most successful voluntary youth at Sandhurst organisations in the world. Today it • Inter-Cadet Force sports competition at numbers 131,000 young people, led by RAF Cranwell in September 25,000 adult volunteers, in well over 3,000 sites across the country. • Reception for adult volunteers at the City of London Guildhall The Cadet Forces are about fun and opportunity in a positive, structured • Trafalgar Day Parade featuring all four environment that encourages the Cadet Forces for the first time development of leadership and teamwork, initiative, self-confidence, self-discipline • Cadet150 celebrations to and a sense of responsibility. close with Remembrance Day events They welcome young people and adults from all backgrounds and abilities. 6 air cadet / springwinter 20102010 Around The Country ... Around The Country ...

climbing walls, boats and aircraft simulators.

• Cadets from 177 (Blackpool ALL SYSTEMS GO! Airport) Sqn, in partnership with the Woodland Trust and Blackpool Borough Council, have planted 150 trees at the New Fylde Ex–Services Military Arboretum.

• Cadets from 42F (King’s at Chetwynd Barracks, Chilwell Lynn) Sqn teamed up with the at the launch of Cadet150 in the Woodland Trust for a day of tree East Midlands. The ATC cadets planting to mark the launch joined forces with the Army of Cadet150. The cadets took Cadets and Sea Cadets for an delivery of 300 young trees and activity packed day. planted some at the former Second World War RAF Station • Cadets and staff from 624 VGS, at Bircham Newton before based at RMB Chivenor, have meeting up with foresters on set themselves a huge Cadet150 the Queen’s estate at challenge. During the weekend Sandringham where permission of 26th and 27th June, the had been granted to replant two School aims to complete 150 coppices. The Estate staff were Gliding Induction Courses for so impressed with the cadets’ cadets from Devon & Somerset enthusiasm that they asked for and Plymouth & Cornwall Wings the teenagers’ help with the as well as air cadets from local • Her Majesty The Queen as possible during their visit. planting of 20 metres of beech CCF Sections. Sqn Ldr Gregory celebrated the 150th anniversary Wg Cdr Brian Wills-Pope, OC hedge before they left! North, OC 624 VGS, said: “The of the UK Cadet Forces with 400 Devon and Somerset and volunteer staff of 624 wished to local young people, including Chairman of the Devon Joint • Bristol & Gloucestershire Wing make an extraordinary effort for Devon and Somerset Wing Service Cadets Committee, said: paraded some 400 staff and the benefit of affiliated cadets cadets, during a royal visit to “Cadet150 is a fantastic prospect cadets to mark the launch of to mark this very special 150th Devon. The visit from Queen – a wonderful opportunity Cadet150. Cadets, led by the anniversary. We aim to provide a Elizabeth and the Duke of to highlight the key role we award-winning 93 (City of ‘hands-on’ flying experience for Edinburgh to Wyvern Barracks, play in assisting young people Bath) Sqn band, marched 150 cadets, many of whom will Exeter, where cadets from all towards responsible adulthood through Tewkesbury to the never have flown before.” three Services paraded, marked through learning new skills and famous Abbey for a thanksgiving the launch of the regional developing self-confidence.” service and re-dedication programme of Cadet150 of both the Wing and 785 celebrations In addition to • Air Cadets will be out in force (Tewkesbury) Sqn banners. the parade, various activities later this month to help publicise Guests included the Lord undertaken by the cadets, Cadet150 in Glasgow. Cadets Lieutenant of Gloucestershire, including gliding, adventure from all three Services will be who took the salute, and the training and First Aid, were mounting a huge display in Mayor of Tewkesbury. displayed. The Queen and the Braehead shopping centre, Duke took time to speak to as where more than 120,000 visitors • Cadets and staff from 2418 many cadets, staff and parents are expected each day. As well (Sherwood) Sqn represented as the displays, there will be South and East Midlands Wing First Woman For Helicopter Display Team Lynx helicopters at events and shows across Britain throughout the summer. Lt Frater, 36, worked as a school teacher before she spoke to an armed forces recruitment and joined the Army in 1997. She learned to fly at RAF Shawbury in former air cadet has become the first Shropshire and then A female pilot to fly in the Royal Navy’s spent five years on a front line tour, serving ‘Black Cats’ helicopter display team. in war zones including Iraq. She returned to Britain as a helicopter instructor before Lt Becky Frater, a former cadet of 1312 joining the Royal Navy and was invited to (Southend Airport) Sqn and now a helicopter join the Black Cats display team last year. flight instructor at RNAS Yeovilton, has been selected as the leader of the two- person ‘’I took a big risk in leaving a good job, but team. The Black Cats, which formed in 2002, joining the armed forces is something I had perform incredible manoeuvres in the agile always wanted to do,” she said. New Cadet Hero Instructor Will in second Centre Opens new £95,000 cadet A centre has opened at dramatic mountain rescue MOD Stafford and will be home to air cadets from 395 one slipped and tumbled an (Stafford) Sqn and their ACF incredible 250ft.” colleagues. The latest lifesaving incident The centre offers a range of involving Flt Lt Close-Ash comes facilities to cadets, including less than two years after he led an aerospace and technology a dramatic rescue operation to centre that houses a flight save seven ill-equipped tourists simulator as well as a who were just minutes from Phantom cockpit. death. On that occasion he was with cadets from his former 346 Drill displays and a marching (Tynemouth) Sqn scaling Pic Du band marked the official Canigou mountain in the French opening of the new shared Pyrenees. After spotting patches training centre that was of blood-spattered snow, Will attended by Air Cdre Ian and his determined cadets led a Stewart, as well as Wales & three-hour rescue mission. West Regional Commandant, Gp Capt Richard Allen. OC eroic Air Cadet instructor included a punctured lung, and Five more tourists were spotted Staffordshire Wing, Wg Cdr H Will Close-Ash has relived she was made as comfortable as on a ledge 600m above, wearing Grant Kearns, said: “The the moment he led a three-hour possible until a Royal Navy Search only shorts and T-shirts in the centre is a fantastic facility rescue mission to save a walker and Rescue Sea King helicopter sub-zero conditions. Along with that provides cadets with who had plunged 250ft down arrived from HMS Gannet in his cadets, Flt Lt Close-Ash led many resources and the an icy ravine in the Scottish Prestwick. She was flown to the stricken climbers half way opportunity to apply the Highlands. Belford Hospital, Fort William, down the mountain before knowledge they gain in the and transferred to Raigmore official rescue teams arrived. .” And this is not the first time Hospital, in Inverness, and is now Following the Pyrenees rescue he has been involved in saving recovering from her injuries. efforts, Flt Lt Close-Ash was life on mountains – Will won a presented with the Life Saving prestigious award for a rescue in Will said: “We were climbing Stob Medal from the Order of St John Volunteer the Pyrenees less than two years Coire nan Lochan mountain, – a silver medal which has been Of The Year ago. in Glencoe, when I saw the awarded to only 170 people in dt Sgt David woman. She was sitting next to the last 100 years. Confirmed MacQuarrie from Flt Lt Close-Ash, 33, Sector a river with blood on her face by the Queen in October, the C 2158 (Sevenoaks) Sqn Commander of the Durham & after being injured on rocks on medal is awarded to someone has been named Toung Northumberland Wing of the Air the way down – she was very who shows “a conspicuous act of Volunteer of the Year by Cadets, which manages 36 ATC confused and scared. Her friends gallantry while endangering his Sevenoaks District Council squadrons in the North-East of had a basic knowledge of what own life”. for his ‘tireless work’ at the England, was with a group of to do, but it was uncoordinated squadron. He wins £100 of walkers climbing a mountain in and she had been lying there on Despite the latest incident, High Street vouchers plus a Glencoe when he came across the snow for about 30 minutes, Flt Lt Close-Ash plays down £200 donation to his unit. a stricken climber who had advancing the likelihood of suggestions that he is a hero. He plunged from a slippery, ice- hypothermia. said: “As she was airlifted from strewn, narrow mountain path. the scene, the woman just said “After I reached her I assessed her thanks as the winch line pulled First In Their Field Although she was with three injuries and decided we could her up and she disappeared into friends who had dragged her out move her to a more sheltered the helicopter. The guys from wenty-seven of a stream at the end of her fall, area and await a mountain HMS Gannet were absolutely T cadets from 2484 she was in great pain, shivering, rescue team or search and rescue brilliant – the winchman decided (Bassingbourn) Sqn put and lapsing into unconsciousness helicopter. Some wanted to her condition was such that he their fieldcraft skills to the having shattered bones in her check on the progress of the did not want to await the MRT test during an overnight arm and shoulder by hitting rescuers further down the hill but immediately winched her up exercise held on the airfield rocks as she tumbled down the so I gave them a precise grid and flew her off the mountain. at ATR Bassingbourn. Two mountainside. reference to pass on. These Section, led by Cdt FS Adam aspects are all part of the “A crew member from the Kelly, became the first Will, whose full time job is helicopter turned to me and gave winners of the squadron assistant head teacher at leadership training we give to air cadets. me the thumbs-up and it was fieldcraft trophy. Bedlington High School in satisfying to know we had done Northumberland, realised he “It’s a dangerous area for walkers as much as we could. Time flies faced a race against time to and it’s easy to hurt yourself. when your adrenaline is pumping prevent the woman further The women and her party were - I’m relieved everything worked deteriorating. He and his fellow experienced climbers, kitted out as it did – it could have been climbers abandoned their bid out with the right equipment a lot worse for the victim. ‘The for the summit of the 3,658ft and clothes for the time of year Pyrenees’ rescue and this latest mountain to give her first aid including crampons and thermals event show how important it is and prepare her for the arrival – they were just unlucky that to be prepared, and that’s what of rescue services. Her injuries we teach in the Air Cadets.” 8 air cadet / spring 2010 Cadet Contest Is Hotting Up ive ATC cadets are among the 21 Not only are the shortlisted cadets competing F ‘outstanding’ cadets shortlisted for the for the highest accolade of winning the CVQO’s Duke of Westminster’s Award. celebrated Duke of Westminster Award, but also to be one of the top nine cadets to The cadets are currently undergoing a participate in a summer expedition to South gruelling 36-hour selection event in the Africa. The 21 young people, aged between Quantock Hills, Somerset. The top five cadets 16 and 19 and from all over the UK, have from that event will be announced later this been chosen out of 200 initial nominations month ahead of an award ceremony at the from a pool of more than 10,000 cadets Cavalry and Guards Club in London in June. currently registered with CVQO. The ATC cadets are Gilberto Algar-Faria “Each year these exceptional young people, from 48F (Hampstead) Sqn, London Wing; from all walks of life, excel in different Abigail Bagshaw, 1046 (Fordhouses) Sqn, ways. This year we have a shortlist of 21 Staffordshire Wing; Alexandra Dutch, 241 outstanding achievers, each of whom is an (Wanstead & Woodford) Sqn, London Wing; excellent ambassador for today’s youth, and Padraig Goggin, 1378 (Mold) Sqn, No 2 Welsh we look forward to meeting them in the final Wing and Henry Wisdom, 1066 (Knebworth) round of selection,” said Edward Woods, Chief Sqn, Herts & Bucks Wing. Executive of CVQO.

On A High Ssafa Celebrates To The Point nstructor Cadet WO Enfys 125th Anniversary ir Cadet Tara I Griffith of 1310 (Eryri) Sqn has en cadets from 85 (Enfield A Crank from 267 ended her cadet career on a high, (Twickenham) Sqn has been T and Southgate) Sqn after being awarded the coveted provided a guard of honour selected to fence as part of Stan Charlton Cup at RAF Valley. the Great Britain Women’s for HRH Prince Michael of Kent under-17 squad. The Award was presented to when he attended a service to 19-year-old Enfys by 90-year-old celebrate the 125th anniversary Tara has already represented Stan Charlton, who has a long of the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen Great Britain in two association with RAF Valley, being Award she now arranges and Families Association (SSAFA) international competitions the first RAF airman to set foot on sports and fitness evenings for Forces Help at Westminster in Grenoble in South-East the new airfield, then known as Caernarfon’s cadets. And more Abbey. France and in Gothenburg in RAF Rhosneigr, back in 1941. than this, when the squadron’s Sweden. Competing against numbers were dwindling last year, more than 250 fencers from Following a return visit to the she got up and did something all around the world, the station in 1991, Mr Charlton about it, attracting over twenty competitions in Grenoble expressed his wish to present a new cadets to the squadron. and Gothenburg, where the cup to the station, to be awarded competition was higher, annually to a person or team as “I’m very pleased that Enfys has were hard fought and a a prize, and asked the Station won this award, and hope that big learning experience Commander to nominate a she will accept my offer of a flight for 16-year-old Tara. She worthy recipient. in one of our Hawk aircraft as a said: “I had a brilliant time token of my appreciation.” and learnt a lot about This resulted in the awarding internationals, all I can do is of the Stan Charlton Cup to the “I can’t believe I’ve won this train harder and learn from best cadet from one of the 12 Air award,” said Enfys. “I had no idea In The Bag Cadet squadrons in North Wales that I’d been nominated, and my experience for next time, ommandant Air Cadets, so I can do better.” parented by RAF Valley. I’m very proud that the whole squadron has been recognised C Air Cdre Ian Stewart, Tara has so far won the Leon The winner was decided by RAF for the hard work that everyone helped staff and cadets from Paul Junior Series (National) Valley’s Station Commander, Gp puts in. The offer of a Hawk flight 2418 (Sherwood) Sqn raise in 2009, is the current under- Capt Bruce Hedley, who said: “The is something I’m really looking an incredible £1,131 for the 18 Surrey Youth Champion nominations were once again of forward to. I’ve had some Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and and has her sights now set a very high standard, but one in fantastic opportunities with the Families Association (SSAFA) on representing Great Britain particular really stood out. Enfys Air Cadets over the last seven when he lent a hand packing in the under 20’s category. has certainly achieved much years and I’d recommend anyone customers’ bags at a local branch during her cadet career, however, to join.” of Marks & Spencer. one thing that kept appearing was the theme of giving To round off proceedings, Air Cdre something back. Andy Griffin presented the Griffin Shield to 1310 Sqn’s CO, Flt Lt “Using her Air Cadet parachuting Bob Vint, “This is only the second course she raised sponsorship time we have won these awards money for a school project and in eighteen years, and we are the Air Ambulance. Having very proud to bring them back to completed the Sports Leader Caernarfon,” he said. 9

First For Highland Wing Gone with the wind viemore Cdt FS Jordan A Adams has received not just one but two CVQO BTEC Diplomas. She has been working towards her BTEC First Diploma in Public Services and also in Music during the last two years and was rewarded with both at a presentation made by Wing Training Officer Sqn Ldr Christine Copsley. It’s thought to be the first time that a Highland Wing cadet has gained both these Diplomas at the same time and 17-year-old Jordan adds these awards to a previously obtained BTEC in Aviation Studies. “Doing the BTEC Diplomas adets Christopher Marchant and Stephen Lynn Doug describes his 21 days at sea. “We set sail for Rio has helped me to develop C will be joining the yacht Discoverer next month in fine weather and started to settle into our watch and improve my leadership as it continues on its round the world voyage. system, four hours on, four hours off. During the first skills and helped build on night my watch, red watch, had a short baptism to my confidence,” says Jordan. Christopher, a cadet Cpl with 936 Sqn, Central & ocean sailing. The wind picked up to 40 knots in a “I think this will stand out East Region, and Stephen, a cadet Sgt with 2178 matter of seconds. We had to react quickly to reduce on my CV and university Sqn, Scotland & Northern Ireland, will be joining the the main sail and get the boat sailing normally again, applications as it’s quite a yacht’s crew as they sail from Antigua to Charleston which isn’t easy when the boat is bouncing around, rare thing to have on it.” at the beginning of May. waves crashing over the deck and it was the first time Jordan plans to study The pair will be followed by Cdt FS Stephanie we’d sailed in the dark! psychology at university and Page from 424 Sqn, South West Region and Cdt then perhaps become an Kirsten Platts from 2431 Sqn, North Region, for Officer in the RAF. Jordan’s the penultimate leg of the year-long journey from CHALLENGING father, Fg Off Scott Adams, Charleston to Boston. “After the first night of drama we had some good who is also the OC of 1068 The honour of sailing the yacht home on its final leg weather. However, some days got very challenging Detached Flight at Aviemore to Gosport at the beginning of July goes to Cdt Sgt especially doing mother watch when you do the said: “I’m so very proud of Gregory Kirby from 496 Sqn, Central & East Region cooking and cleaning. It makes you thankful that Jordan. She has worked and Cdt FS Andrew Martin from 2203 Sqn, Central & at home you don’t have to cook for 14 people in hard and achieved a whole East Region. a kitchen barely big enough for one person and lot through Air Cadets and leaning over at 30 degrees so the pots and pans fall her own efforts – it’s a great Cadets have been part of the crew on board the RAF everywhere! result for her.” yacht since Discoverer set sail nine months ago in a major tri-Service adventurous sail training exercise, “Arriving into Rio was great, and gave us a real sense Expedition Transglobe. Yachts from all three Services, of achievement. I completed my Competent Crew always crewed by Service personnel, are sailing qualification during the voyage and have made some Flying High around the world in 13 stages, combining out and fantastic life-long friends. A big thanks to all those p to seven full out racing with adventure training. who helped organise and support this amazing trip; I U Private Pilot Licence had an amazing time.” scholarships are available On board for the 3,600 nautical mile leg from from the Guild of Air Pilots Lanzarote to Rio de Janeiro, that also saw the crossing Bryn added: “Transglobe has certainly changed me. and Air Navigators. of the Equator, were cadets Doug Cartwright and I feel that I am much better now at coping with any Bryn Pearce. challenge that is thrown my way and that I am much These scholarships provide more confident. It’s an experience that I would love up to 45 hours of flying and to do again. Getting to know the rest of the crew can take a candidate with was interesting as you got to know each other very little or no experience to quickly as you were in such a small space for so long, completion of their flying which meant that we started to gel as a team very licence during the course of quickly. the summer. Closing date for receipt of applications is “It was a very interesting experience and, I’ll admit, 8th April. Interviews will be that there were several times that I was very scared, held on 14 and 15 June at but they were very brief and I am very much in debt the Guild office in London. to the ATC and everyone who made it possible for me To find out more, log on to to go on Transglobe.” www.gapan.org 10 air cadet / spring 2010 ACO’s ‘Outstanding Support’ Recognised ommandant Air Cadets, C Air Cdre Ian Stewart, has received the RAF Benevolent Fund Wilkinson Sword on behalf of the ACO. The sword was presented in recognition of the Organisation’s ‘outstanding service and support’ to the RAF Benevolent Fund (RAFBF), which has led to a huge total of £100,000 raised over the past two years. Air Cdre Stewart received the sword from RAFBF Chief Executive Lord Trenchard, at a special event held at the Imperial War Museum, London. Also present were many underestimated and I am proud that Air Director Dean Benton for a particular ATC guests from City of London institutions and Cadets across the country have raised so squadron. the RAF. much for the RAF Benevolent Fund. This is a wonderful way to start the year and I Cadets from 1475 (Dulwich) Sqn joined the Following the event Air Cdre Stewart was delighted to receive the Sword from Commandant on stage and were recognised said: “It was an honour to receive this Viscount Lord Trenchard in the presence of a for their “long-standing and incredibly prestigious award on behalf of the ACO. The distinguished audience.” valuable” support and for their efforts in importance of benevolence should not be raising a grand total of £31,000 following During the event there was special praise their spectacular annual Christmas concerts. from RAFBF Marketing Communications Cadet Career Ends On A High The pair are also WO Sarah Bailey Lord Lieutenant’s C from 2403 (Alder- Cadets, Joe for maston) Sqn became the South Yorkshire and youngest person to fly the Richard for West multi-million pound BA Yorkshire. 777 simulator at Heathrow Airport – the result of seven In addition, Joe years’ achievement with the will be starting his Corps. Flying Scholarship very soon and Nineteen-year-old Sarah, Richard is one who leaves the Corps of only a few later this year, said: “This Qualified Aerospace was a mentally draining Instructors in the experience. All your ACO. concentration goes into watching the positioning Having spent some red and white lights on the time meeting the runway, and monitoring the other groups, cockpit instruments all the including colleagues time, but it was worth it.” from the Sea Cadet Royal Appointment Corps and Army Cadet Force, Prince Edward chatted wo Yorkshire Air Cadets were to both Air Cadets for some time taking a particular interest in their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. T invited to lunch with HRH The Earl of Wessex at Sheffield Town Hall. Accompanying the two cadets was North Region Media Communications Officer, Sqn Ldr Mike Cadet WOs Richard Fleming of 868 (Mirfield) Wadsworth, who said: “It was a real pleasure to Sqn and Joe Hedley from 1053 (Armthorpe) see two of our most senior and qualified cadets Sqn were selected to meet Prince Edward chatting so easily with a member of the Royal at a reception and lunch to celebrate the Family. achievements of young adults from the Yorkshire Region, during a recent visit to “It’s a credit to them that they were so comfortable South Yorkshire. and relaxed with the Earl and they confidently explained what they had done and what they Both Joe and Richard have much to be proud hoped to achieve. of. Both hold the highest cadet rank of CWO, the highest grade of Staff Cadet, both are “The Earl seemed very interested in what they had qualified Glider Pilots and both hold the Silver to say and made a point of asking about when they Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. would gain their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.” 11

Up Front ! adets from 42F (King’s C Lynn) Sqn have bagged a prime town centre site to advertise their activities and Last Minute Reprieve highlight the opportunities available to potential cadets. The squadron now has its very own shop after cadets For Vulcan spotted the empty store in the town’s shopping centre uneaton-based cadets, based at RAF Lyneham in necessary to enable XH558 to and approached the Centre N who had been backing Wiltshire, will be able to appear return to air shows around the Manager. Not only did he the campaign to save the last at air shows this summer. UK this coming summer.” agree to the cadets using flying example of one of Britain’s the window space as an most iconic aircraft Avro Vulcan John Sharman, Chairman of the Flt Lt Paul Hincks from 121 information and recruiting XH558, were delighted to hear board of trustees for the Vulcan (Nuneaton) Sqn said: “We had platform for the Corps, but the news that an anonymous to the Sky Trust, which restored been watching the Vulcan to the he also offered the use of the benefactor has donated the historic bomber, said: “This Sky Trust XH558 Survival Appeal whole shop until such time as £400,000 to help keep her in most significant donation comes Pledge Scheme total increasing it was permanently rented. the air. as a very welcome surprise but didn’t think that it would on top of all of the thousands reach the £650,000 target in time The shop – opened by The Vulcan to the Sky Trust was of donations and pledges to save her. Honorary Secretary Julie facing a cash crisis and needed received over the past months Lister – will be open most to raise £650,000 by the end from XH558’s incredibly loyal “The news of the anonymous Saturdays when uniformed of February to keep the XH558 supporters. donation came as a real surprise staff, cadets and civilian project going. and now we are looking forward committee members will be “We are now in a position to to seeing XH558 as she takes to on hand to inform visitors The anonymous £400,000 commit to the wide-ranging the skies for the 2010 air show of the activities available to donation means Vulcan XH558, engineering programme season.” any young person joining the which is currently Corps. Squadron boss, Flt Lt Pauline Petch, said: “We saw Cdr Tony Wright, OC Trent Wing, approved the this as a great opportunity New Unit Opens official formation of 1265 (RAF Coningsby) as a to stamp the ‘light blue new Detached Flight at RAF Coningsby Detached Flight. Flt Lt Daniel Withnall, OC 1265 footprint’ on the area and to A has opened after demand exceeded all (Horncastle & RAF Coningsby) Sqn, said: “Thanks showcase the opportunities expectations. to all the hard work of the staff and committee, available to any young person the new unit has been far more successful than who joins the ATC.” In the weeks leading up to the first parade, more ever anticipated. than 4,000 leaflets were distributed throughout the Coningsby area and on the opening night 52 “The opportunities that the ATC has to offer are cadets attended Coningsby which exceeded all now open to more than 100 youngsters in the Lifesavers expectations. Following an eight week trial, the area of Horncastle and Coningsby.” hirty–eight cadets and new unit proved its viability and last month Wg T three staff members from 1066 (Hitchin) Sqn are now fully trained in Learning Pioneers cadets – join to gain a taste of military life, from emergency life support overseas field trips in the jungles of Brunei, to following the successful utton Valence School near Maidstone, Kent shooting and signals competitions, sailing and completion of a ‘Heartstart’ is pioneering a national scheme for the 220 S gliding. course. pupils in their RAF, Army and Navy Sections of their cadet force to earn academic qualifications “But we felt that cadet force activities should also Community trainer, Maggie on top of their military skills. be linked to academic attainment, and we began Hackney, from the British eight years ago with cadets sitting BTEC Level 2 in Heart Foundation who ran The school is pioneering a two-year BTEC Public Services, a GCSE equivalent. Now, we have the course, said: “The cadets qualification in Public Services, equivalent to an upgraded that, and are the first cadet force in the at 1066 Sqn are an inspiration A Level, which 12 student cadets will be sitting as UK to pilot Level 3, with the benefit to students to other young people in the part of their weekly commitment to cadet activities. that that qualification can count towards university way that they approached this training. They were a Major Glen Millbery, the teacher managing the entrance. We have also written a leadership module pleasure to teach.” scheme, explained: “Naturally, all our cadets – 140 which other CCFs have taken up.” in the Army section, 40 RAF cadets and 40 Navy

13 Quick-thinking cadet saves friend’s life Staffs CADETS COMPLETE quick-thinking cadet has been honoured A for saving the life of her classmate. Hannah Morris from 1262 (Blackburn) Sqn LEADERSHIP COURSE sprang into action when her friend, Georgina Newby, 14, was choking on a sweet while the teacher was out of the room at St Wilfrid’s School in Blackburn. ore than 25 cadets from Staffordshire into it and to see the course go-ahead after M Wing have completed a challenging so much work is fantastic.” Using First Aid skills learned at the squadron, Wing Leadership Course. 14-year-old Hannah performed three ‘back The course, which runs alongside the blows’ on her friend, who was unable to speak, A total of 58 cadets applied to attend the annual Staffordshire Wing adventure dislodging the sweet and saving her life. highly-rated course, with 32 being selected training camp at Swynnerton Training Area during a day of tough assessments and in Staffordshire, was initially designed as Now, Hannah, a cadet , was given a interviews. a progression for older cadets who were surprise St John Ambulance life-saving award looking for an extra challenge. in front of her colleagues at the squadron Of the final 32 only three cadets failed to headquarters. She said: “Everyone clapped. complete the course, as the remaining 29 Course Director, Flt Lt Vicky O’Dell, said: “The It was a big shock. I didn’t expect to get an scooped a batch of Wing Leadership badges. course is hard work for the students, both award.” mentally and physically, and passing is far OC Staffordshire Wing, Wing Commander from automatic. It is one of the pleasures Recalling the incident, she said: “We were in Grant Kearns was delighted that the course of running such a course to see cadets who a lesson and the teacher had gone out of the had been a success. He said “I am very proud have never met, work together and develop room. I looked at my friend and she was red in that Staffordshire Wing has been able to into good, competent team members and the face and waving her hand in front of her put on this course which proved to be a leaders.” neck. great success. I know a lot of work has gone “I asked if she could cough, but she couldn’t even speak, so I gave her three back blows, which is what you’re meant to do. She was a bit in shock after so I gave her some water. She’s a good friend and afterwards she said I had saved her life.” Hannah had learned the techniques the previous summer at a first aid course with the cadets. Flt Lt Dion Etheridge nominated her for the award, which was presented by the commanding officer for the East Lancashire Wing. He said: “This is a young girl who was faced with a life and death situation and had the guts, determination and confidence to make a decision and save a life. What she did was absolutely brilliant.” 15 16 air cadet / spring 2010

The Cup was presented to Road Cdt Sgt Emily Woolford, 17, who received it on behalf of everyone at 1211 Sqn. Safety - Emily said: “I felt really honoured to be chosen to Jade Leads collect the Morris Cup and I am so proud of all of our cadets The Way who put on a great show for the Chief of the Air Staff”. hen it came to Afterwards, Air Cdre Stewart W designing a road said: “It was a pleasure to safety poster for air accompany our Chief of Air cadets, the Organisation Staff and Lady Anne Dalton harnessed the artistic to the impressive Morris Cup power of its thousands of presentation in Swadlincote. cadets through a national “The smile on Cdt Sgt Emily competition launched last Morris Cup The special event took place Woolford’s face when she October. Presented at Bretby Conference Centre received the trophy said it all. near Swadlincote and was This was the best presentation The competition was open hief of the Air Staff, attended by 200 people, evening I have been to and I Air Chief Marshal Sir to all cadets and the brief C including the Commandant was so pleased to see all the Stephen Dalton, has presented was to come up with a of the ACO, Air Cdre Ian hard work pay off. the Morris Cup to 1211 Strewart, the Chair of South simple and eye-catching (Swadlincote) Sqn. Derbyshire District Council, “Congratulations to 1211 design that also carried a (Swadlincote) Sqn for a The Cup was awarded to the Councillor Pat Murray, Central strong road safety message. & East Regional Commandant, tremendous effort.” squadron after they were Cadets from across the deemed to have produced the Gp Capt Brett Morrell and ABOVE: Sgt Emily Woolford receives top presentation in the quest South & East Midlands Wing the Morris Cup from Air Chief Marshal country submitted a wide for the 2009 Lees Trophy Commanding Officer, Wg Cdr Sir Stephen Dalton (Photo: SAC Craig variety of designs, judged Nigel Dickinson. Hunter RAF) last month by Commandant Air Cadets, Air Cdre Ian Stewart. Rotary Reward Somerset-based 702 Naval Air Sqn provide training for aircrew and maintenance eing able to fly a helicopter is a dream that The winning design came personnel, as well as acting as parent squadron many young people have, but for one very from Cdt FS Jade Roberts B for the ‘Black Cats’ Royal Navy Helicopter Display lucky Air Cadet the dream has become a reality. Team. from 306 (Runcorn) Sqn, Cdt Sgt Nicolas Every, 16, was fortunate enough Merseyside Wing. Her Following a briefing on the role of the unit by his to fly a Royal Navy Lynx Mk6 helicopter for an dynamic poster, that judges pilot, former air cadet Lieutenant Chris Chambers hour, courtesy of 702 Naval Air Sqn. felt got to the core of the Royal Navy, Cdt Sgt Every was issued with his brief, is printed opposite for Nicolas from 134 (Bedford) Sqn was rewarded flying clothing and given a comprehensive with the flight after he was named Bedford’s aircraft safety brief. squadrons to cut out and Cadet of the Year for 2009. display. Cdt Sgt Every’s flight was in one of two specially painted helicopters displaying the distinctive Donald Gordon, the ACO’s colour scheme of the ‘Black Cats’ Chief Environment and Taking the controls and flying the Lynx was the Safety Officer, said: “We order of the day and Cdt Sgt Every was able received a huge number to hover the aircraft and perform some of entries and were basic manoeuvres during his one hour encouraged both by their sortie. He was also shown some of variety and enthusiastic the display routine by Lt Chambers as well as a demonstration of the style and artistic sense. tactical flying used to insert troops “All the entries into combat zones. communicated a strong WO Paul Taylor, who organised road safety message, giving the flight, said: “I cannot thank the the Commandant quite a Royal Navy enough for providing challenge to decide our this unique opportunity. winner!” “I don’t think that there are many cadets who have flown in a Navy Lynx Jade receives an ACO/ and been allowed to fly the aircraft RAF goody bag as well as for themselves. This experience has a mounted and framed, cemented Cdt Sgt Every’s determination to professional reproduction join the Fleet Air Arm in the near future.” of her poster. 17 18 air cadet / spring 2010

ext month former cadets Matt N Snook and Pete Sunnucks aim to climb Mount Everest, the tallest mountain on Earth, and raise £100,000 for Help for Heroes and the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation.

Everest - To The Top Of The World

Tragically John, who went on to join the It provides them with , was killed in Afghanistan in scholarships and bursaries March 2008 – just two weeks before he was to give them the chance to due to come home. Pete said: “John was achieve their own special Matt’s best friend and a close friend of mine – goals. The other charity to we met whilst on the Junior Leaders’ Course. benefit from Pete and Matt’s efforts is Help For Heroes, “As young, ambitious lads Matt and John which supports men and dreamt of standing on top of the world Standing on top of the world will fulfil women injured in the line of duty. together, and swore to each other that one personal lifetime dreams for Matt and Pete, day they would. This expedition is for him.” “It’s a great honour that we have been former Cadet WOs with 2358 (Ferndown) granted the full blessing of Help for Heroes,” and 1046 (Fordhouses) Sqns respectively. Pete and Matt, a Royal Marines Reservist, who said Pete. “With Matt having recently served But, more importantly for them, it provides started a seven-month tour of Afghanistan in Afghanistan and with many of our close an unique opportunity to raise awareness just six months after John’s death, wants to friends serving in the Armed Forces, either and funds for two charities they are deeply raise £50,000 for the two charities close to deployed or preparing to deploy, we are fully passionate about. their hearts. aware of the horrific, life-changing injuries The pair, who met on the tough Air Cadets The first is the John Thornton Young that are sustained by men and women Junior Leaders’ Course, are taking on the Achievers Foundation set up in memory of defending Britain’s interests, as well as the world’s highest peak in memory of fellow their friend, who was just 22 when he died. outstanding work Help for Heroes is doing to cadet, John Thornton. As a youngster, support their rehabilitation and recovery.” 24-year-old Matt and best friend John, also The trust, set up by John’s parents, aims to Mount Everest has been successfully a former CWO with 2358 (Ferndown) Sqn, encourage and help young people to ‘climb summited by just over 200 British climbers, dreamed of tackling the world’s highest as high as they can dream’ – a mantra which 85 successfully completing the widely- mountain. John wanted as his legacy. 19

COMPETITION: lateral stability zone, step grip arch support zone, 90 degree leading heel edge zone and the wet stick siping REBOOT with zone which actively pushes water from Cadet Direct underneath the boot to give you a more stable grip on wet surfaces. The Stealth adet Direct, one of the leading Force also features an abrasion resistant C UK suppliers of military heel kick pad, composite shank and 3D2 clothing, footwear and equipment, Max Contoured Sockliner with Memory has teamed up with Air Cadet to run Foam ensuring they stay comfortable all day. Colour: Black. Sizes: UK sizes 3-14 (no a special competition for readers of half sizes). Air Cadet magazine.

There are first and second prizes of Plus brand new boots up for grabs. Simply answer the question below and then email your answer to competitions@ SORBOTHANE SHOCK STOPPER cadetdirect.com to arrive no later than DOUBLE STRIKE (WEB PRICE Friday, 18th June. The first two correct £18.99) answers drawn at random after that Sorbothane insoles use world leading date will receive the first and second technology to give unrivalled shock prizes, as detailed below. absorption. The double strike is ideal for medium shock absorption activities such as long TABs, CFTs and most everyday Question: sports where both the heel and forefoot Which anniversary of the is subject to impact shock so is perfect to is being replace the insole in either your combat celebrated this year? boots or running shoes. Manufactured using Nano Silver antibacterial technology for maximum comfort. Available for UK First Prize: foot sizes 3 to 12.5.

MAGNUM STEALTH FORCE 8.0 LEATHER WP (WEB Second Prize: PRICE £79.95) BRITISH ASSAULT BOOT, BLACK A brand new boot from Magnum (WEB PRICE £37.95) bringing together some of the latest technology in footwear design. The British Assault Boot is a super Designed as an update to the lightweight multi-purpose boot ideal for training, parades and fieldcraft use. accepted This boot features a high polish leather harder upper, leather lined inner and stitched route of man-made non-clog commando sole. Each the North boot also features six standard lace holes, Ridge that two locking lace loops and six speed-loop Pete and fastenings. Sizes: UK 3 to 13. Weight: from Matt will be just 1000g per pair. Colour: black. tackling. In preparation, they have spent months building up experience, climbing in the Alps, English Lakes and the Scottish Highlands. They have also at the beginning of this year successfully summited the Southern Hemisphere’s highest peak, Mount Aconcagua in Argentina (pictured). original Magnum Leather CEN, this boot is manufactured from a water resistant Pete and Matt leave for Kathmandu this full-grain leather upper and features a month to begin the long journey to reach Cambrelle moisture wicking lining with the summit of the highest mountain in the an Aqua Lung Waterproof/breathable world, hopefully in mid-June. To follow their membrane. The X-Traction Zone outsole progress, log on to www.everestforheroes. brings together 10 advanced technologies co.uk and features to form the ultimate outsole including diamond link fence grip toe, NEW!

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COMPETITION: Air Cadet has 10 pairs of tickets available for Sunday, 18th July. To win, simply answer the question below and send your answer, together with your name, address and squadron to RIAT Win Tickets To Riat competition, Media & Communications, HQAC, RAF Cranwell, pecial tributes marking the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Sleaford, Lincs NG34 8HB to arrive no later than Friday, 4th June. S Britain will be among the highlights at this summer’s Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. The first 10 correct entries drawn at random after that date will each receive a pair of tickets. On July 17-18, you’ll be able to share the sights and sounds associated with Britain’s ‘finest hour’ as legendary Battle of Britain Question: Which aircraft makes fighters such as the Spitfire and Hurricane, supported by the RAF’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, conjure up the atmosphere its debut at RIAT this year? on an airfield in southern England in 1940. There will also be an opportunity to enjoy an unparalleled range of current aircraft from around the globe – from fast jets and helicopters to bombers and transporters. answer: See all these, including the world’s most advanced jet fighter the USAF F-22A Raptor and many of the world’s most spectacular name: aerobatic display teams, including the RAF’s legendary Red Arrows, in a breathtaking seven-and-a-half hour flying display.

On the ground, there’s everything you’d expect from one of the address: UK’s biggest and most exciting family days out, including a display arena, fairground, flight simulators, a vintage car display, a static aircraft park, battling robots plus the renowned interactive Tri@RIAT entertainment area aimed specifically at young people. With free entry for all accompanied under-16s, a free outdoor evening concert and free parking – this summer’s Air Tattoo represents unbeatable value for money. Tickets for this summer’s Air Tattoo, which is staged in support of the Royal Charitable Trust, are priced £37.50 and can be purchased by calling the Ticketline on 0800 107 1940 or visiting airtattoo.com. All tickets squadron: must be bought in advance.

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Book Reviews: The book reaches a climax with a covert mission in which Ethan feels the regret of some of his actions but at the same time feels the thrill of achievement. The way this is described when he is told at the end of the mission: “You should be proud. Not happy but proud. It’s different,” sums up what maybe a lot of our young servicemen on operations Reviews l Competitions l News l Reviews l Competitions l News l Reviews l Competitions l News l Reviews l Competitions l News l Reviews l Competitions l News l Reviews l Competitions l News laround Reviews the world l are Competitions feeling. It does l News l Reviews l Competitions l News not glamorise what took place but demonstrates what had to be done. All told, the book is a good read, entertaining but cannot be taken too seriously but then again can anything? As the final line says: “Life’s too short not to.” Ted Nelson: Cdt FS Tom Wadsworth, 103 (Doncaster) Sqn A Survivor’s Tale Survivor’s Tale tells the story Apache Dawn - Drop Zone ’ve only ever read Andy McNab’s of Ted Nelson’s service in Always Outnumbered non-fiction books before, so when A I the as a wireless by Andy McNab I was asked to read his new book – Never Outgunned operator from 1940 to 1946, where Drop Zone – I wasn’t sure what to he completed 717 flights and ndy McNab ventures into expect. However after reading the by Damien Lewis 1,658 hours. A children’s fiction with Drop first couple of pages, and meeting the his is the true story of two Zone, a story about 17-year-old main character I was hooked. Ethan Blake, whose dead-end The 85-year-old author very Apache attack helicopters, modestly recounts his roles during T existence is changed forever when he The book is about 17 year old Ethan one flight from a squadron of the World War 2 as a wireless operator/ sees someone base jump from the top Blake whose dead-end existence Army Air Corps. It documents their air gunner in Coastal Command, of the block of flats he lives in with changes forever when he sees action during a 100 day tour of roles which are often not always his mother, sister and hard drinking someone base jump from the top of Afghanistan in 2007. remembered or referred to when father. his block of flats. Suddenly the world talking about WW2. From joining at From the off, we see action from looks very different and Ethan knows the age of 17, Nelson remembers Helmand Province, Afghanistan. It The experience leads him to a summer exactly what he wants to do with his his roles in Coastal Command from gives the reader an insight of what job at the local skydiving club and life - he wants to skydive. training right through to searching is to come! from there into a world of adrenalin- fuelled thrills and intrigue. As he Ethan gets caught up in the adrenalin- for U-boats across the Atlantic Acronyms and service talk used progresses through the story Ethan fuelled world of skydiving. As a jumper Ocean in the Hudson and the Flying in the early part of the book, the finds himself part of an elite team he has natural talent, he’s a quick Fortress aircraft. author explains. involved in covert military operations learner and proves himself good He also recollects his final role of in which his new found skydiving enough to be invited to join an elite trialling new equipment for several A glossary at the back is available skills, his courage and determination skydive team. He quickly discovers multi- engine aircraft, including for reference. When reading, you are put to the test. there is more to the team than simply the Halifax and Warwick. Nelson can imagine what it feels like in jumping out of planes - they are struck a very strong balance the aircraft: that you are one firing The story is perhaps a little farfetched involved in covert military operations between describing the numerous the weapons, you, the reader, also but is truly “boy’s own” stuff. McNab, and missions that require a lot more aircraft and missions he flew as feel scared and excited at the same famous for his true life story, Bravo than just guts. As Ethan is about to well as some of his more humorous time. Two Zero, from his time in the SAS in find out, sometimes you just have to experiences. Gulf War One, is an experienced writer take a deep breath and jump .. Reading the book I began to feel who has concentrated mainly on the During one flight he remembers like these aviators were becoming adult audience so far. However, the I was a little apprehensive about how he had to throw out the toilet my friends. At one point I was so attention to detail about learning to reading this book as it’s not something and some very precious boxes of engrossed, I had tears in my eyes, skydive is as much a part of the story I would have usually picked up, but chocolate into the Atlantic Ocean the next, laughing. as the action and it could only have after reading the first chapter I was in order to reduce the weight of been written by someone who has quickly captivated by the sense of the aircraft! After their 100-day tour, Mr Lewis experienced it for real. action and adventure that follows the had an epilogue. It was here the story. It’s fast paced and I couldn’t war became all too real. The author The way he describes the rush of The book is written at an put the book down, reading it over a appropriate level of language and talks about those who died. freefall, the technical details and the couple of days. suggestion of people moving in the is light hearted while still capturing the true cost during training and Aircrew and soldiers who received shadows and background gives an Cdt FS Alexandra Dutch, flying to the lives of many other recognition of what they had done. authentic feeling. Only someone who 241 (Wanstead & Woodford) Sqn has actually been there and done that young men. The dead marine in the early part could describe this. of the book only lived a few miles Nelson was one of the few from me. This is a book, although aircrew who survived all of slow to start off, gives you an his missions during the war insight in what our servicemen and his accomplishments and and servicewomen have to do in Get Snapping responsibilities held during his six Afghanistan. his year there are two years of service are something that photography competitions open should be admired and studied by For some the conditions are T any young person today. to members of the ACO; our own and appalling and others make great some classes of the Royal Air Force’s sacrifices. The thorough insight that Ted competition. Nelson’s book provides is highly Sacrifices for you, the people of the recommended to anybody, With Spring now here and the United Kingdom. You have to read regardless of their current interest number of activities increasing, this it. A great read, through all the tears and knowledge of military aviation. may be a good time to start thinking and laughter. Luckily the experiences of Nelson about taking pictures of some of the were able to be recorded and wide range of activities in which we Jim Partington, TG1 HQAC remembered, tragically unlike so are all involved. many others. So, get snapping and watch the ACO Officer Cadet Holly Smith web site for the announcement of the competitions’ details.

Reviews l Competitions l News l Reviews l Competitions l News l Reviews l Competitions l News l Reviews l Competitions l News l Reviews l Competitions l News l Reviews l Competitions l News l Reviews l Competitions l News l Reviews l Competitions l News Andy McNab - The Hidden Face Of War ndy McNab joined the in 1976 as a boy soldier. In 1984 he was A badged as a member of 22 SAS Regiment. He served in B Sqn 22 SAS for ten years and worked on both covert and overt special operations worldwide, including anti-terrorist and anti-drug operations in the Middle and Far East, South and Central America and Northern Ireland. Andy McNab has written about his experiences in the SAS in two bestselling books, Bravo Two Zero (1993) and Immediate Action (1995). Bravo Two Zero is the highest selling war book of all time and has sold over 1.7 million copies in the UK. To date it has been published in 17 countries and translated into 16 languages. Since then, McNab, who always keeps his identity secret, has become a best-selling and prolific thriller writer and has just published his first children’s book – Drop Zone. Cdt FS Alexandra Dutch from 241 (Wanstead & Woodford) Sqn went to meet the man behind the silhouette. Her mission: to find out how the man who left school with a reading age of 11 became such a staggeringly successful author ...

Did you always want to write? Do you feel that it’s important for young people to read for enjoyment No, not at all. I didn’t realise until I joined the - did you read a lot when you were Army at 16 that I had the reading age of an younger? 11-year-old. That is still the average reading age now. Being a boy soldier and getting an Yes it’s very important, but I didn’t read much education through the Army made me feel myself when I was younger, which was half I could have a go. I was approached to write of my problem. Because I never read, I would Bravo Two Zero and it all started from there. read and miss the words or make it up but I realised that without being able to read you

Official picture of Andy McNab © Johnny Ring 23 are stuffed because it gives you information If you start worrying about it too much you and fills you out a bit more intellectually. might affect what you’re doing. I don’t think of it in a different way because there’s so You’ve got to do it. If you’re doing it for fun much patronising stuff out there. it’s got to be a good thing. That’s why I have become involved with different reading initiatives. Who are your favourite authors - whose writing influenced you? Where did the idea for writing books Joe Simpson the mountain climber who for younger audiences come about? wrote a book called “Touching the Void” – I must have read it about 15 or 20 times. The I met a guy called Robert Rigby who used to way that Simpson writes about emotion and write soap operas and then teenager soaps feelings is just the best. like “Hollyoaks” and also “Thomas the Tank Engine”. We became quite friendly and he is It’s really simple how he explains into promoting education like me. We spoke environment which for me makes it the best for about a year before I got on with it. book and best book about technique.

Where did the idea for What book(s) are you reading Drop Zone come from? at the moment?

Two years ago I was at a big freefall centre Charles Dickens “Great Expectations” – for the What advice would you give to in Switzerland where they are famous for second time – I was talking about it with my young people wanting to write? restricted drop zones, basically dropping into mate of mine who reckons I missed some bits small areas within forests and other similar the first time round so I decided to go back First of all you need to read so that you can environments. and read it again. look a structure to get that right. I spent a summer there and saw a bunch If you’ve got something, just put it down so of French teenagers who were jumping. it’s there and then you can go back to it and They would come for a few days and then What’s your writing routine? change it and add to it, but you can’t get the disappear. There is none. What I try and do by January structure and you can’t get layout unless you’re reading. After being at the centre for a couple weeks, is have the main story and the character it gave me the idea for the story. ark: detailing what happens to the main character. Tell us about some of the reading By Easter I need to have a first draft which initiatives you’re involved in to help Drop Zone is the first book in a new I can then re-work: It’s far easier to criticise people with their reading … series - do you know how many books than create so I get it all down and then I try you hope to complete and have you and do something every day. There are a number of initiatives I do. plotted out storylines for any others? I need to have it done by the end of July but I do a lot with infantry soldiers during their No, but I should have. I’m always late! 26 weeks basic training. I’ve written “quick reads” which the Army is picking up for their reading initiatives. You are known for your authenticity What’s harder, writing - what you write about you have done fiction or non-fiction? yourself - what sort of research did What advice would you you carry out for Drop Zone? Fiction - because of the structure: you need give to young people wanting to come up with the storyline and then to join the military? I still do freefall which is something I did you’ve got to cut the storyline up to create during my time with the Regiment, but I did all the different elements you need, whereas Go for it. As a profession it is just as valid research the kit which they would use as it with non-fiction, you can see naturally where if not more, than others. It’s a golden was slightly different. I also thought back to things are. opportunity to develop yourself. my own experiences – there’s what they teach you and the reality of actually doing it. Great if you’ve got three years, but a pain if Use it for what it can give you - you can get a you’ve only got seven months. lot out of it.

Are you planning any more books about yourself? Sounds like writing is What was your best quite time pressured? experience in the military? Not at the moment, no. It is. I certainly enjoyed freefall which I didn’t start doing until I joined the Regiment. People think about the publishing world as What’s the main difference guys with corduroy jackets with little leather Maybe the most exciting thing – although a between writing for adults and for a patches on but the fact is that if you don’t bit clichéd - was actually getting “badged” in younger audience? Do you feel produce in time there are penalties – printing the Special Air Service (SAS) when I realised you have a responsibility to do more space, lorries, retailers etc all need to be it had actually happened, which was a good than entertain? organised in advance - and if it’s not good thing. enough they will get sent back. No, none – I treated the young adult I had achieved it! audience just as I would the adult audience. It’s very clear cut. 24 air cadet / spring 2010 Are YOU missing out? Too few adults realise that their voluntary work can be rewarded with academic awards, according to CVQO’s Lorraine Hearsey.

You can use your ATC experience to steer yourself into a new job

dult Instructor, Fg Off Amanda Barnard “I have already recommended the A hoped that her skills and experiences she Licentiateship award to others.” gained in the ATC and RAF would enable her to help other cadets, not realising that she could Amanda’s story is not untypical, according to gain an award for herself on the basis of her Lorraine Hearsey, Head of Adult Qualifications time as an instructor. at CVQO. She believes too few adults realise what the Cadet Force skills body can offer Amanda, from 119 Sqn (Trent Wing) enrolled them. for the City & Guilds Licentiateship in Youth Leadership and Training with educational “Our qualifications are the perfect way charity, CVQO and has since found the award to combine personal and professional has made a huge difference to her career. development and demonstrate the value of the skills you’ve picked up in the ATC to current “I am a PA to two company directors and or future employers,” she said. secretary to a department of 18 people. And what’s more – just by carrying out your “My line manager was extremely supportive ATC role you might already have done enough of my doing the award and when informing to gain an award. my Managing Director that I had achieved the Licentiateship he stated that he believed “You don’t need any academic qualifications, I needed to expand my role within the although some of the certificates require you to foundation, honours or masters degrees, department. I have been made a line manager to have completed a certain number of years giving adult volunteers the chance to graduate for four admin staff in my department and or courses with the ATC,” explains Lorraine. in academic robes in front of friends and family have responsibility for the department The awards are all about recognising the – this year at College Hall Officers’ Mess, RAF budgets,” she said. experience you have gained with the ATC and Cranwell on 29th October. Amanda believes the Licentiateship has also getting some formal recognition in return. There are no exams involved and coursework helped her in other ways. All the awards are mapped to the skills you learn while you progress as an adult volunteer, is done at your own pace, allowing you to fit “I gained more self-confidence and belief in recognising the commitment you have already your learning around other commitments, with my ability as a youth leader. I also found that made to the Cadet Forces. CVQO tutors providing support by email and sitting down to complete the reflective report phone. made me realise how much I had achieved. Adult instructors could start with a BTEC – which is equivalent to four GCSEs – and finish “We know that volunteers worry about taking with a City & Guilds qualification, equivalent on too much, so we have developed remote 25

FACT FILE:

CVQO at a glance All the answers to your questions about adult qualifications

Who is eligible? All adult volunteers, regardless of previous academic qualifications

Will I need to attend a college? No – most certificates can be completed remotely from home, although a few require you to attend courses at the Cadet Training Centre, RAF Cranwell

What qualifications are relevant to adult volunteers? • City & Guilds membership • Graduateship and Licentiateship certificates • ILM awards in First Line Management

• BTEC First Diploma in Public Services or Music

How much does it cost? Qualifications for cadets are free, but mentoring and introduced flexible, longer “Up to 70% of the work is already achieved adults must pay. deadlines,” said Lorraine, “There aren’t even just by being in the ATC,” says Lorraine. “And any enrolment deadlines to worry about and if you’ve served with the Armed Forces you Prices are heavily discounted, thanks to a the variety of awards on offer is diverse and can fast track, as City & Guilds will take into HQAC grant. constantly expanding.” account those skills and experiences. The awards are open to all who are “Qualifications are offered at substantial How long do eligible, including Civilian discounts and if volunteers can use their ATC qualifications Instructors and staff at skills to get them noticed in today’s tough job take Volunteer Gliding Schools. market that can only be a positive thing?” to complete? The aim is to reward you for what you’ve already done in the ATC, so extra work is kept to a minimum. How can qualifications help me? There aren’t many ways you can earn an ‘It has given me an alternative look on my career’ says Robert Bradshaw. honours degree in as little as six months! A supply manager have started to look wider afield for job with the MOD, working opportunities within Further Education, alongside Rolls Royce to possibly getting involved with BTEC in Public How do I apply? supply engine spares and Services at college, putting into practice the Download the application forms at components for the Harrier fleet, skills that I have learnt over the 15 years. cvqo.org – just click on Adult Awards. Flt Lt Robert Bradshaw has been involved with the Corps for 15 years. He believes “It has helped build my confidence and inter- You can also find information about the that his City and Guilds awards, both the personal skills, the ability to make timely various qualifications on offer. Licentiateship in Youth Leadership and judgement calls, as well as being able to step Training, and the Graduateship in Youth back and look at the bigger picture. Management and Training, will be of great “I have also developed good communication Who can I speak to if I benefit to him both personally and at work. and negotiation skills. These awards want to find out more? “From a professional point of view, the go a long way in gaining a recognised Contact Lorraine Hearsey, Head of Adult Graduateship has given me an alternative qualification that can be equated by people Qualifications, on 01276 601715 or email look on my career prospects. Instead of in the bigger world outside the Cadet her at [email protected] considering remaining as Civil Servant, I Forces.” Work Experience? No Sweat! f you are not sure of the sort It can be boring, lonely and enough to put and could provide the route to a rewarding of job you want to do, or you off a career for life, but work experience future career. I can also be an exciting, rewarding way to find which course to study, then work a job that fits perfectly. Although work experience for cadets with the RAF has been running since 2006, the experience can help you explore And that’s certainly true for the cadets scheme has been expanded dramatically not what is out there. taking part in this year’s extensive range only to cover more trades but also to provide of work experience courses with the more places. RAF. This year there are some 44 courses available with places for more than 500 Warrant Office Steve Owen-Browne, cadets covering more than 20 branches and who is responsible for co-ordinating the trades – everything from catering to the programme, explains: “The demand from RAF Regiment, Engineering Officer to Non- cadets and the extremely positive response Commissioned Aircrew. from the RAF has been the catalyst for the steady expansion in the number and variety Each course is aimed at giving cadets an of courses being arranged. This year two new insight into what the RAF could hold for them trades are available: avionics technician and – it’s real work in a real working environment SNCO air traffic controller.” 27

“I really enjoyed the work experience course although it was hard work.”

All the courses are designed to allow cadets “This was helpful as it gave another option to Throughout the week I got a chance to see with a serious interest in following a career consider when applying for the RAF.” the different departments in Cosford and in a particular branch of the Service to also a short visit to the museum. At the end experience it first hand. The style of course Cdt Fraser Neil from 870 (Dreghorn) of the course I managed to get what I wanted varies greatly depending upon which one a Sqn added: “I found the course a good from the course and most importantly it gave cadet takes. The Aircraft Mechanics course, opportunity to speak to Sergeants and us a good insight of what life as an AvMech for example, has the cadets actively involved Officers about RAF life, the training involved engineer is like in RAF and I feel this course in a range of tasks all week. One day they and the initial interview processes. I also was very worthwhile.” could be practising their workshop skills enjoyed staying on camp and using the gym using hand tools and the next operating a facilities.” The courses run throughout the year until Jaguar’s undercarriage and other systems October and are regularly updated as more Among the cadets on the PEdO/PTI course courses and dates are confirmed. where hydraulic pressures of 3,000 psi are in at DCAE Cosford was Cdt Zoe Collins from use. 40F(Maidstone) Sqn. She said: “I really WO Steve Owen-Browne said: “The courses The NCO aircrew course gives cadets a cross enjoyed the work experience course although aim to give cadets sufficient information section of experience of what to expect on it was hard work. I found both the lectures on what a potential career could hold and fixed and rotary wing aircraft while budding and fitness tests enjoyable. Besides the fun, I ultimately to be able to use that information Engineering Officers are given a more got a lot out of it and I realised what I need to in making an informed decision on their theoretical introduction to their likely role in do to become a PTI.” choice of career path.” the RAF. Also at Cosford, but on the engineering A new course for 2010 covers the new trade course was Cdt Ugesh Gurung from 18F of direct-entrant SNCO Air Traffic Controller (Wimbledon) Sqn who said: “The main with cadets getting to see and use some of reason I applied for this AvMech course was Want To Know More? the high-tech simulators used in training new to gain more knowledge in this career, have f you’re aged between 16 and 19 Controllers. hands-on experience to the aircraft and find I and are interested in the courses, out what it is like working in as a Avmech then check out: Cdt Stephanie Merry from 1175 (Prenton) engineer in a real life. Operating the Jaguar’s Sqn said: “The course gave details about undercarriage and systems was my favourite www.aircadets.org on BADER or through the officer role and also the SNCO role and part of this course. [email protected] explained the differences. “I found the staff very open and willing to Application forms are also available on help which made this course more successful. BADER or through workexperience@ aircadets.org

Words & Images: Philip Jones 28 air cadet / spring 2010 THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

FACT FILE: In The RAF Reserves To join the RAF Reserves you must be aged between AF Reserves, in a similar 18 and 50 (or up to 56 if R way to Air Cadets, balance you have previous military the demands of their day-to- experience); able to offer a day life with an exciting and minimum commitment of challenging role in the military. 27 days per year made up However, unlike Air Cadets, RAF of 6 weekends and 15 days Reserves are required to deploy annual continuous training. overseas and play a vital role in supporting the RAF in its defence Depending on and peacekeeping operations. circumstances, some Reservists can undertake Currently over 2,000 people many more days annual combine their day job with training. a volunteer post in the RAF and travel to new places and “While I was out in Afghanistan, Reserves and last year over 440 experience a unique lifestyle that we had to do a massive airlift Visit www.raf.mod.uk/ people, ranging from judges and offers the best of both worlds. operation from Kandahar. We had rafreserves for more 18 patients in total, two of which information about how to teachers to nurses and office Flt Lt Laura Hodson, a 29 year old were in a critical condition. They join the RAF Reserves and workers, took up the challenge ex UAS member, combines her full and joined the Reserves. were all suffering from gunshot the benefits it offers. time job as an NHS nurse with her and shrapnel wounds. Every member of the Reserves part time role as an Aeromedical Or, if you’re not old enough is trained to the same high Evacuation Nurse in the RAF “We needed to get them onto a to the Reserves, but want standards as Regular RAF Reserves. C17 and get them back to the UK. to keep ahead of the game, There’s a lot of pressure but we join Altitude, the exclusive personnel. Explaining her decision to join worked as a team and gave each club for 13 to 17 year-olds Laura says “Initially I joined In this issue of AIR CADET we other a boost when things got who want to get closer to the NHS to gain the necessary hear from two Reservists with the tough. RAF action. reasons behind their decision to experience to join the RAF as a join this important organisation. Nursing Officer. I’ve since decided “It was a far cry from my life in the It’s free to join and you’ll to continue my career as an A&E NHS because it was hot, noisy and receive a great welcome Fg Off Tom Calver works most Nurse but I get an enormous sometimes you had to work with pack and a regular copy of days as a communications satisfaction from my other job as limited equipment – but an all Altitude magazine – packed officer for Darwen and Blackburn an Aeromedical Evacuation Nurse round brilliant experience.” full with news, features, Borough council. in the RAF Reserves.” stunning photography and Laura is currently attached to stories from the RAF. However, as a fully trained Like many of her colleagues in the 4626 Sqn at RAF Lyneham where Reservist, Tom has travelled Reserves, Laura has experienced she works one weekend a month, Simply register online at all over the world as an RAF being mobilised and spending training Medical Assistants and www.raf.mod.uk/altitude Media Operations Officer and periods of time away from home. other nurses, as well as refreshing explains “When I took the job in She reveals “Going to Afghanistan her skills in Aeromedical Blackburn it was a new area and was one of the main reasons I Evacuation. I was looking for a way to meet wanted to be in the RAF. I wanted likeminded people. to experience the pressure of She also stays prepared for working in an Aeromedical deployment with regular military time with my husband and family “Having been an Air Cadet during Evacuation role in the field. training provided by the RAF and live a normal life. school, the RAF Reserves seemed Regiment and once a year goes “My parents are really proud of a natural progression but I had “The role involves treating on extended training for two me and so is my husband who is no preconceptions about where I personnel overseas and then weeks. really supportive of my career as might go or what I might do. ensuring their safe return back to the UK for recovery. It’s a very Through her role as an RAF an RAF Reserve.” “So far I have been detached Reserve, Laura gets to experience stressful job, and sometimes you “I’d recommend this route to to the Falklands Islands and life on the front line, as well as can be working really long hours anyone who is interested in Afghanistan, both of which have keeping her normal job. She says: with no sleep. joining the RAF. offered different challenges and “I really enjoy being able to rewards. Sometimes it feels like “There isn’t anything like the “It’s a great way to experience you are living a double life, from feeling of knowing you’re saving balance two lives. One weekend a month I go away with the RAF for what RAF life is like and you get to the safety of working on ‘civvy lives and helping the troops to do do so many new things.” street’ to the excitement of being their job.” training, but the rest of the time I deployed to somewhere like work as an NHS nurse, spend Afghanistan.” In any of the Reserve roles available there is the opportunity to gain transferable skills, both personal and professional, 29

especially help on the harder Musical pieces of music.” Youth Flute-playing CWO Tanya Romans, usicians from the Band of who was also attending camp for M the RAF Regiment spent a the third time, said: “Each time week helping 44 Air Cadets from you face new challenges which across the country during this keep cadets going back every year’s Air Cadet National Music year. You meet people with similar Camp at RAF Cranwell. interests, some of whom become friends for life. The musicians from The camp gives cadet musicians a the RAF Regiment band are very unique opportunity to learn from friendly, they give up their time to their regular RAF counterparts, help and some extra time to help one of whom, Cpl Trish McClure, soloists with extra practise if they attended camps from 1997 to need it. I thoroughly enjoyed the 1999 whilst a cadet on 1123 week.” Interested? (Hooton Park) Sqn before joining the RAF as a clarinettist. She was Presentations made on the last working with the current cadets night of the camp were the Want to he was presented with a glass to help them develop their skills. Wilmer Trophy, for the cadet who decanter by his colleagues who, know more? The goal for the week was a public developed their musical skills the in turn, he praised for creating performance by the Concert Band most during the week, to Tuba adets who attend the many of the ideas that have in RAF Cranwell’s Whitttle Hall on player, Cdt Matthew Hobbs while Annual Music Camp made ACO Music the success C the last night of the camp. 425 (Aldridge) Sqn’s Sgt Luke are selected from those Horobin won the best cadet prize. it is. After the final concert who submit entries to HQ Each morning the cadets Commandant Air Cadets, Air Air Cadets in the preceding rehearsed the programme for This year was the last camp Commodore Ian Stewart, praised November. the concert and then spent the organised under the direction Peter Slaney’s contribution to the afternoon on more conventional of Sqn Ldr Peter Slaney, the Air ACO and presented him with a Each cadet must be at least cadet camp activities such as Cadets’ Director of Music. Commandant’s Commendation. Grade 3 (but this may be section visits, leadership exercises, revised upwards for 2011) Sqn Ldr Slaney took up the The ACO’s Principal Director of flying and preparing for a drill on their main instrument appointment in 1999 and over Music is Sqn Ldr Gil Singleton competition. It was then back although many cadets have the past decade has overseen the said: “I am heartened by the into the Band Room for evening much higher grades. rapid growth in music throughout improved musical quality of rehearsals. the ACO. He said: “Music has been those Cadet musicians applying Final selection is made Cpl Rachel Miller from 1404 a significant part of my ATC career. to attend the annual Air Cadet by HQ Air Cadets with (Chatham) Sqn, principal So much has been achieved and I Concert Band Camp. In addition, assistance from the ACO’s clarinettist for this year’s band, am proud to have been a part of it there are exciting developments new Principal Director of said: “It’s my third Music Camp – not bad for someone who does this year in regard to the Air Cadet Music, Sqn Ldr Gil Singleton. and I attend because the week not really read music!” National Marching Band and their is a real challenge. The band has appearances during the year, He was formally dined-out especially in support of Cadet150 been fabulous and we got lots of during this year’s camp where support from the RAF musicians in London.” 30 air cadet / spring 2010 31 32 air cadet / spring 2010

“Finally, we turned onto a westerly heading after which cultivation became increasingly the On Target Indian Summer exception. The desert here consisted of ever higher adets from the moving dunes of increasing grandeur. At times the C Berkshire units of ormer Chief of Staff at HQ Air way was covered with a multitude of confusing Thames Valley Wing were Cadets, Mike Cross, accompanied tracks; the use of a watch and the sun ensured we bang on target when they F maintained the required direction. On our one by four adult staff and a Cadet WO, won every award at a target night trek, the passage of Venus and the North Star shooting competition held at travelled to India to take part in a provided that reassurance. Brock Barracks in Reading. ten-day camel trek covering some 230 “Life slows down when travelling by camel. Our The Inter-Services and kilometres across the Thar Desert in days began with the sunrise at 0630, leaving plenty Nowell Cup competitions, Rajasthan. of time to breakfast, break camp, saddle up and be organised by the Joint on the track by 0800. Services Cadet Committee The principal aim of the expedition was to replicate, for Berkshire, are held “Then some three hours in the saddle until it was as near as practical, the mode of travel and life of annually with teams from time to find shade under acacia trees to sit out the the traders who drove their camel caravans across the Sea Cadet Corps, Army peak temperatures of the day; what with lunch and the Thar Desert before Partition between India and Cadet Force and Air Training the challenging temperatures, we rested up from Pakistan. Corps competing using small around 1100 to 1430 before tackling another three bore target rifles. The Nowell However, the team spent the first 10 days exploring hours of trekking.” Cup team, led by Cdt Sgt some famous and ancient sites of northern India, Chris Goodrich, comprised including the Taj Mahal in Agra and Jaipur, the ‘pink Liz Mclachlan from 1730 (Lochaber) Sqn, said: “The of four firers from 2499 city’, as they travelled west from Delhi towards the need to adjust our level of activity in order to cope (Wokingham) Sqn, while the start of our trek. with the heat was perhaps more unexpected. Inter-Services team is made The early part of the trip gave the team time to “I for one had no concept of what 42-43 degrees up of the top six firers from adapt to something of the Rajasthani way of life would be like, and certainly initially found it quite each service. and the increasingly hot and dry weather; by hard mentally to sit around for three hours in the The Inter-Services Bikaner and thereafter temperatures peaked daily middle of the day - this is something I never do at competition team, which at 43C to 45C. home.” was made up from cadets “At last, a few miles outside Bikaner, we met our Mike Cross added: “A relationship between from 211 (Newbury), camels and their owners,” recalled Mike Cross. “In ourselves and the cameleers started to develop 1996 (Earley) and 2499 all there were 12 camels - four to pull the traditional on the first day, when we were all entrusted to (Wokingham) Sqns, retained camel carts which carried our bags and on which go `solo` on our camels; a relationship which the trophy for the third year. we slept - seven for riding and one to pull a cart continued throughout the trek despite the lack of a Cdt Kristine Weeks from loaded with camel feed-chopped millet. common language. 1996 Sqn won the best “Dressed in the local fashion - kurta pyjama (the “On the move, the principal means of shot for the Inter-Services best way to keep cool) and turban - our initial route communication was to encourage the cameleers competition. Cpl Race from took us south of Bikaner, before we turned south to join in a sing-along, as well as sharing sweets 2499 Sqn also won the best west passing through villages built of sun-dried and teaching each other words from our respective overall shot award for the bricks and increasingly sparse fields of millet - the tongues.” day by gaining the highest average scores across both staple arable crop. “The next day we left by jeep for Keechan where we competitions. “We then progressed through stone built villages watched ranks of thousands of Demoiselle Cranes and fields of ground nuts and water melons which marching over the dunes to feed. Then on we went Thames Valley Wing is now thrive on sparse water and the moisture from dew to Jaisalmer, once the great desert trading fortress training to compete in a produced by the relatively cool nights. of the Thar, and now a world heritage site. number of other shooting competitions throughout “And finally we took a tortuous 18- hour train “The passing of such a long caravan through the forthcoming year as well journey back to Delhi; and so to home.” villages aroused great interest, particularly among as for their ultimate goal the children, who waved us on our way. of retaining both trophies again next year.

By Mike Cross 33

Religious Festivals Easter eggs probably derive from a pagan ceremony of the celebration of new life in the Camp Is Easter - 4th Apr - Christian Spring. Huge Success aster celebrates the resurrection of Article prepared by The Rev Christopher Miles, Regional adets from 2527 E Jesus Christ from the dead on the third Chaplain, London and South East Region C (Lawnswood), 2337 day after his death. (Northallerton) and 2168 (Yeadon) Sqns spent two On the first Easter day Jesus appeared to Mary Baisakhi - 14th Apr - Sikh days at the Regional Activity Magdalene and to ten of the twelve disciples Centre at RAF Linton-on- known as apostles, in Jerusalem and to two other aisakhi is the Sikh festival Ouse. disciples, Cleopas and his companion, as they B commemorating the beginning of travelled home from Jerusalem to the village of the new year and the foundation day of The weekend camp Emmaus. was a great success and Khalsa (Sikh Brotherhood) which was saw cadets involved in Christian worship soon became established on founded by the tenth Guru (spiritual leader), a number of different the first day of the week, Sunday, in recognition Gobind Singh (1666 – 1708 C.E.), in 1699 at activities, including a visit to of Jesus’ resurrection as the supreme miracle and Anandpur in Punjab. Elvington Air Museum. focus of the Christian faith. The date of Easter is variable in relation to the secular calendar. Initiation to Khalsa involves wearing five articles Cdt Clark from 2527 Sqn (5Ks) of faith to symbolise: obidience to God, said: “The things I most It falls on the first Sunday after the fourth full moon recognition of God’s universality, orderliness, enjoyed were the flight of the secular year, that is, from 1st January, and modesty and protection of the weak. He abolished simulator and the gliding therefore may occur anytime between 25th March caste prejudice and established equality for men and I am now counting the and 22nd April. and women in the Sikh community. Western Sikhs days until I am 16 so that I can go back to RAF Linton- Until the synod of Whitby in 663/4 AD, which organize Vaisakhi Melas (fairs). on-Ouse to do my gliding resolved a number of differences between the These started as a Nagar Kirtan under the scholarship and get solo Celtic Church in the North and the Roman Church leadership of Guru Granth Sahib, walking in the wings.” in the South of Britain, Easter was celebrated on selected part of a city singing hymns all the way differing dates in our country. Even today the from start to finish point. Every Sikh celebrates Orthodox date is generally a week different to that Baisakhi. of the other Christian Churches. Adam Gets Article prepared by Dr Tanaji Acharya, Hindu Chaplain According to the Church of England’s Book Royal Approval of Common Prayer, Easter is a time when all Most of the material for the Sikh festival is taken from A Multifaith Calender, published by the Festival Shop, dt FS Adam Kelly from confirmed members of the Church should attend a Birmingham, with assistance also from Mrs Mandeep Kaur, Sikh C 2484 (Bassingbourn) communion service. Chaplain to HM Forces. Sqn has been appointed the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for Cambridgeshire. One Of The Best Sqn boss, Flt Lt Emma Dixon, said: “The last 12 Adam, who has completed months have seen a huge change for the cadets a gliding scholarship and adets at 1070 (Diss) Sqn have won the and I am so proud of their achievements and is working towards his accolade of Most Improved Squadron in C dedication to the Corps. Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s & , bringing home the Wg Cdr Award, will also visit Canada Brian Henry Memorial Trophy for the first time “They really do show you that what you put in, later this year as part of since it was introduced in 1980. you get out ten-fold!” the International Air Cadet Exchange programme.

Obituary Bill did almost all the tailoring of uniforms himself, a skill he had Civilian Instructor taught himself. He was also very William Arthur (Bill) Powell adept at making accoutrements such as slings and other band pieces. ill Powell, Civilian Instructor and ex-Band Master at 110 (City of His loss will be felt by the squadron and particularly by the band and B York) Sqn, sadly passed away in the early hours of Thursday, 25th on behalf of the whole Wing we offer our condolences to his family February, aged 75, writes Sqn Ldr Brian Mennell. and to the squadron. He will be sadly Bill had been a long time instructor with the Army Cadet Force before missed. he joined the ATC. He became the Band Master of 110 (City of York) At his funeral on 9th March Sqn in 1986 at which time they initially played drums and bugles but there was a large turnout of Bill introduced flutes and it has been a drum and flute band ever since. present and past members After the 50th anniversary of the ATC Parade in 1991, Bill was of the band and of adult presented with a Commandant’s Certificate of Good Service in staff. recognition of his strenuous efforts on behalf of the band. Among those present AWO Mike Powell, Bills son, took over as Band Master when Bill retired was Wg Cdr Ray Kidd, in 2001 although he stayed on as a Civilian Instructor. President of Central and East Yorkshire Wing, Sqn Bill never lost any interest in the band and he still turned up to Ldr Brian Mennell, Sector band practice, events and parade nights. He was particularly good Commander and Sqn Ldr at making sure the cadet’s uniform was right and their turnout Gill Singleton, Head of Music immaculate. Services for the Air Cadets.

36 air cadet / spring 2010