West Mercian Wing

News 2008
2009 Gold Expedition announced West Mercian Wing's Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme Officer, Squadron Leader Bill Hoe RAFVR(T) has released details of the Wing's planned Gold D of E expedition in the Lake District. Full details are available on the information flyer, which can be downloaded by clicking here.
AOC visits No 1 (Overseas) Squadron Air Vice Marshal R F Garwood CBE DFC MA RAF, the Air Officer Commanding 22 Group, and also the AOC for Air Cadets, visited No 1 (Overseas) Akrotiri ATC Squadron at their Squadron headquarters in RAF Akrotiri on Thursday evening. Upon his arrival The AOC was met by the squadron Commanding Officer Flt Lt Geoff Pitts RAFVR(T) who invited the AOC to inspect the forty plus cadets that were on parade. After inspecting the three flights the AOC presented a number of awards including leading and senior cadet proficiencies, and marksmanship badges and met with squadron staff and instructors. For the second part of the evening AVM Garwood observed the cadets undertaking various projects. These included aircraft modelling, radio communication, computer flight simulator, B-Tech instruction and First Class cadet training. The AOC also joined in with some cadets that were firing riles on the air rifle range that is contained in one of the Squadron HQ buildings. At the conclusion of his visit the AOC congratulated all cadets and staff of the squadron on their turnout and presentation of their varied activities. St George's Day Celebration for 83 (St George's) Squadron St George's Day takes on a special significance for the staff and cadets of what was formerly 1130 (Telford North) Detached Flight as 23rd April, the day of England's patron saint, sees the unit celebrating its first day as number 83 (St George's) Squadron. The unit has gone from strength to strength under the command of Flight Lieutenant Chris Coleman who only joined the unit as a civilian instructor a little over twelve months ago. Chris was formerly a squadron commander with Birmingham and Warwick before leaving the organisation for a short time.
Shrewsbury Air Cadets achieve third place in national Battle of Britain shooting competition Cadets of 1119 (Shrewsbury) Squadron's rifle shooting teams have proved their excellent target shooting skills in a national competition. The Squadron entered two teams, both of which got through to the second stage, consisting of the top 50 national teams. 1119 Squadron ‘A’ team scored 383 out of 400 possible points, achieving third place in the country – only one point behind the second placed Cardiff (1344 Squadron) team and six points behind the winning Shawlands (2452 Squadron) from Glasgow, while the Shrewsbury ‘B’ team scored an impressive 360 out of 400 points. The annual competition, which is governed by the National Small Bore Rifle Association, involves teams of four shooting at single ten-disc targets. The maximum possible score is 100 points, and the competition is shot in two rounds. Every squadron is given a chance in the first round, with multiple teams allowed. Cadet Corporal Kellie Darlington, 16, of Bayston Hill, achieved the highest score in 1119 Squadron – an incredible 98 out of 100 points. Other ‘A’ team members included Cadet Flight Sergeant Matthew Turner, 16, of Sundorne, Cadet Warrant Officer Adam Horton, 18, of Annscroft and Cadet Sergeant Lawrence Russell, 16, of Sutton Farm. Cpl Darlington and Flt Sgt Turner have also been selected to represent England Schools in another national competition – the only cadets to be chosen, all other competitors hail from public schools across the country. The Squadron is currently involved in 11 competitions including England Schools, Whistler, Fennel and Bisley, an international competition scheduled for July. Cadets at all levels have the opportunity to participate in the sport of rifle shooting. Safety is paramount with all ATC activities, and shooting is no exception. Training is an integral part of the system and each cadet is fully trained in whichever rifle they will be using. Supervising staff are similarly trained to deal with any eventualities and to ensure that the range is run safely and efficiently. All rifles are fired from the prone position (the firer is lying on their stomach) at static targets. “Both ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams have done us proud, going from strength to strength with the help of Peter Jones’ expert coaching,” said Flight Lieutenant Graham Barre.
Commandant visits Dudley air cadets Air cadets at number 347 (Dudley) Squadron Air Training Corps welcomed a distinguished visitor recently in the form of Commandant Air Cadets, Air Commodore Gordon Moulds MBE RAF. During his visit to the Squadron Air Commodore Moulds inspected the cadets speaking to each of them individually before touring the squadron's headquarters in Dudley TA Centre and witnessing the cadets participating in map reading instruction and physical education as part of their training programme. During their break the Commandant spoke to the cadets on mass outlining his vision for the future of the Corps before opening the floor up to questions. During the second half of the evening Air Commodore Moulds spoke to the Squadron's staff to thank them for their efforts as volunteers and to go in to further detail on his plans for the Air Cadet Organisation and explaining the rationale behind the National Bag Pack. At the end of the evening the Commandant spoke to the cadets on their dismissal parade to congratulate them on their successes. Given that one of Air Commodore Moulds' aims is to reduce the probationary period that cadets serve before being issued their uniform and thus improve retention of new recruits, he was particularly impressed to see cadets at Dudley, who despite only having been with the squadron for four weeks, had already been issued uniform and were achieving high standards in its maintenance. This was the first visit by Air Commodore Moulds to one of West Mercian Wing's mainland squadrons having previously visited No 1 (Overseas) Squadron at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, which is administered by West Mercian Wing.
Telford North cadets help raise £750 for Royal Star & Garter Homes Air cadets at 1130 (Telford North) Detached Flight were delighted to hear that their assistance at two Royal Star & Garter Homes fund-raising events has added over £750 to the cause. The most recent event was a concert at The Place, Oakengates, by the Band of the RAF Regiment. As well as an excellent musical programme, the audience was also treated to an amusing but thought-provoking speech by Falklands veteran Simon Weston, during which he encouraged them to give generously, but to avoid coins “for health & safety reasons”. The result was a collection by the cadets of £437.50. At a previous event, The International Pigeon Show, last November, a similar bucket collection raised over £300. Major Roger Tweed (Rtd), the local organiser for the Star & Garter, is so pleased he has already booked the cadets for next year’s concert. The Royal Star & Garter Homes is a charity that provides nursing and therapeutic care for ex-servicemen. Last year they opened a new home in Sutton Coldfield.
On the piste with 1 (Overseas) Squadron Cadets of No 1 (Overseas) Squadron took part in their annual Skiing trip to Troodos 22 – 24 Feb, in which 30 cadets attended. All levels of skiers and snow boarders took part with weekend culminating in a ski competition. After settling in to Troodos Camp Friday night, the cadets were up bright and early Saturday morning eager for the day’s events. The cadets were split in to 4 groups, beginner and intimidate in skiing and snow boarding and were ready for a full day. Beginners were taught the basics of stopping and turning with a few bumps on the way! By Saturday afternoon all were skiing down the Sun Valley slope. After a refresher on the gentle slopes, all the intermediate skiers took to the North Face, which is an extremely challenging slope. A great day was had by all. After a hearty breakfast on Sunday morning, the cadets were again on the slopes. After an hour warm up they were ready for the competition. This involved timed runs down the Sun Valley Slope within the 4 groups. Honours went to the following cadets: Beginner Skier – 1st Cadt Shakespear, 2nd Cadt Clayton, 3rd Cadt Taylor. Intimidate Skier – 1st Cadt Hardman, 2nd Cadt Lawty, 3rd Cadt Cpl Mounsey. Beginner Boarder – 1st Cadt Townsend, 2nd Cadt Hadjivarnava, 3rd Cadt Markides, Intimidate Boarder – 1st Cadt Mckenzie, 2nd Cadt Laing, 3rd Cadt Butler. Most Improved Skier – Cadt Talbot Best overall Skiier – Cadt Hardman Best crash – Cadt Shakespear and Cadt Burden. A big thank you goes out to the NEFSKI staff led by Flt Lt Dave Farrell for all their patience and hard work over the weekend, all of which helped to make a successful weekend which was enjoyed by all.
Long service award for Michael Warrant Officer Michael Morgan who is a member of staff at 233 (Pershore) Squadron Air Training Corps has been awarded his Cadet Forces Medal for 12 Years continuous service to the Air Cadet Organisation. He was presented with his medal by Wing Commander Lloyd who is Commanding Officer of West Mercian Wing. Flight Lieutenant Andrew Smith Commanding Officer 233 (Pershore) Squadron said, "it is a fantastic achievement for Warrant Officer Morgan and truly recognises all the hard work he has given to the Air Training Corps."
Pershore Air Cadets receive Awards Air Cadets from 233 (Pershore) Squadron, Air Training Corps, attended the squadron annual awards night on Friday 25th January 2008 at Pershore Working Men’s Club. The cadets were presented with a variety of awards by Mr. Dave Loudoun and Wing Commander Lloyd. Eight new cadets were also enrolled into the Air Training Corps by Squadron Chaplin Reverend Arthur Kent. This is where cadets make a promise to the Corps. The Awards included first class, Leading and senior classification badges. These were presented by our Guest Speaker Mr. Dave Loundon who is an ex Air Cadet. The main awards presented were The Marksman Trophy to Cadet Sergeant Millward, The Adventure Training Trophy to Cadet Kostadinov, Best New Cadet Trophy to Cadet Ricketts and The Adastral Trophy to Cadet Corporal New. Best All Round Cadet Award was presented by Wing Commander Malcolm Lloyd who is Commanding Officer of West Mercian Wing to Cadet Stockford. The evening was attended by cadet’s parents, family and friends, members of The Royal British Legion and The Royal British Legion Women’s Section. Also in attendance were Squadron Leader Neville Billingham and Flight Lieutenant Adrian Owen. Flight Lieutenant Andrew Smith Commanding Officer 233 (Pershore) Squadron said, "I am proud of the cadets and their tremendous achievements, which requires a lot of determination and dedication to succeed to this level."
Cyprus cadets celebrate ATC Sunday Cadets, staff, service helpers and parents of cadets from No 1 (Overseas) Akrotiri Squadron attended a church parade at Saint Paul the Apostle Church, RAF Akrotiri, to celebrate ATC Sunday. ATC Sunday is held on the first Sunday in February to commemerate the formation of the Corps on 5th February 1941 and is celbrated by the Corps United Kingdom and overseas based squadrons. The service was conducted by Wing Commander Tony Gilbert RAF with guests including Commander British Forces Cyprus Air Vice Marshal R H Lacey CBE MA RAF, Station Commander RAF Akrotiri, Group Captain J B Conway and representatives from the Royal British Legion, Royal Air Force Association and No 1 (Overseas) Squadron's Civilian Committee. No 1 (Overseas) Akrotiri Squadron was formed on the 1st January 1961 and prides itself on striving to maintain the premier position of being the first overseas squadron to be formed. The squadron has always been sited on RAF Akrotiri and has had a considerable number of cadets pass through its ranks during its history. The Cadets formed a parade outside the church before the service and AVM Lacey, was met upon his arrival by the squadron Commanding officer, Flt Lt Geoff Pitts RAFVR(T), who invited CBF to inspect the squadron and meet staff members and service helpers. At the commencement of the service, the squadron banner was marched into the church and placed on the altar. During the service there was a short enrolment ceremony performed by the chaplain to formally enrol 14 cadets in to the ATC.
West Mercian Wing Presented with Millennium Sword West Mercian Wing were presented with the Millennium Sword by Air Marshal Sir Roger Austin at a presentation evening held at Worcester TA Centre. West Mercian Wing were presented with the Millennium Sword by Air Marshal Sir Roger Austin at a presentation ceremony held at Worcester TA Centre. The sword, which was presented to the Corps by Sir Roger Austin is awarded annually to the Wing recording the greatest improvement in the number of Duke of Edinburgh's Awards gained. West Mercian Wing were named as recipients having achieved an overall increase of 187% increasing the number of awards gained from 128 in 2005/06 to 239 in 2006/07. The greatest increase of 237% was for the completion of gold awards increasing from 11 to 26, followed by bronze (210%) increasing from 79 to 166 and silver (124%) increasing from 38 to 47. This is the second time that West Mercian Wing have won the sword since its inception in 2000. On the seven occasions the sword has been presented it has only left Wales and West Region on twice having also been won by Merseyside Wing (twice) and Staffordshire Wing. Receiving the award on behalf of West Mercian Wing, Wing D of E Awards Officer, Squadron Leader William Hoe said "To win the Sir Roger Austin Sword is an incredible achievement; to win it for a second time in four years is absolutely fantastic and goes to show the dedication and commitment that staff and cadets within West Mercian Wing put into the D of E award" Air Marshal Sir Roger Austin also presented a number of other awards to staff and cadets from West Mercian Wing including BTEC diplomas, BEL awards, Commandant's Commendations, Cadet Forces Medals and clasps to the Cadet Forced Medal.
DF Cadets Help Cubs With Bag Pack On Saturday The Air cadets from 1130 (Telford North) Detached Flight helped their local Cubs of 1st Lilleshall and Muxton Scout Group, raise funds with a bag pack at Asda, Donnington. As each Cub Pack is limited to a maximum of 30 children with ages as young as 6, it is difficult for them to efficiently man the checkouts throughout the day. When 1130 DF, from the TA Centre, Trench, heard of the problem they offered their assistance - and it paid off, with a collection that almost doubled their normal £800 total. 1130 DF's Commanding Officer, Flying Office Chris Coleman was delighted with the result, "As a fairly new unit ourselves we understand the importance of raising funds. Without the generosity of the public at events such as this there are so many activities that the Air Cadets and the Cub Scouts would not be able take part in. We are looking forward to more combined events with the Cubs in the future."
New recruits for 1119 (Shrewsbury) Squadron Air Training Corps 1119 (Shrewsbury) Squadron Air Training Corps has welcomed four new recruits to its headquarters at Copthorne Barracks, Shrewsbury. The four youngsters had just completed a six-to-eight week induction period, where they were acquainted with the background to the Air Training Corps and the Royal Air Force, uniform, drill and radio communications. Their parents were invited to an induction ceremony which was held at the Squadron’s headquarters, and presided over by Flight Lieutenant G.R. Barre and the Rev. P. Barnes. The new recruits are: Megan Travis,14 years old, from Belle Vue; Michael Burke, 13, from Bicton Heath; Amber Clee, 14, from Halfway House; and Ryan Archer, 13, from Harlescott. As well as making lots of new friends, the new cadets can expect to benefit from a host of unique opportunities during their time with the Squadron, including flying with RAF pilots, target shooting, taking part in adventure training activities, participation in summer camps both in the UK and abroad, achievement of Duke of Edinburgh Awards and qualification for BTEC certificates in both Public Services and Music. The Squadron Band is highly successful, winning several competitions and having recently led Shrewsbury’s Remembrance Day Parade. Both the Squadron Shooting teams progressed to the Second Stage of the ‘Battle of Britain’ Shooting Competition after coming 9th and 11th in the first stage. In this next few weeks, air cadets with 1119 Squadron have been allocated places for flying in the Grob Tutor aircraft at 8 Air Experience Flight, RAF Cosford, and marshal the gruelling Tough Guy endurance course at Perton, Staffordshire, on 27th January 2008. A number of camps are planned for 2008, and cadets are offered the opportunity to take part in several sporting activities against other squadrons in West Mercian Wing. Flight Lieutenant Graham Barre congratulated the four youngsters on completing their induction period. “I wish Megan, Michael, Amber and Ryan the best of luck, and I am sure that they will enjoy their time as air cadets. They are in an ideal position to benefit from 1119 Squadron’s wealth of experience, with some fantastic opportunities open to them.”
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