Thursday 15th October saw 1461 (Wigston) Air Training Corps (ATC) say goodbye to Cadet Flight Sergeant Frank Huckle after seven years of outstanding service.
Frank has made a significant contribution to the Squadron during his time within the Air Cadet Organisation, taking part in everything that he possibly could. Frank achieved a fantastic amount such as his Silver Gliding Wings, his Method of Instruction which led to a BTEC in Aviation Studies, Activity First Aid as well attending various camps around the UK including Swynnerton, RAF Odiham and Bisley. He was also fortunate enough to be chosen to attend King Richard III reinternment in 2015. All of this led to Frank being the Squadron Nominee for the Dacre Sword in 2014, meaning that he was the best male cadet on the Squadron at that time. But let’s not forget the infamous wooden spoon award; Frank, for the first time in 1461’s history, won this 2 years in a row for his comical outlook to life.
Flight Sergeant Huckle has given his all during his time at Wigston, causing himself to be a highly respected individual at both Squadron and Wing level. He has spent a lot of time fundraising, raising money for both the Squadron and outside charities. He said “The best thing about my time has been meeting so many fantastic people.”
Squadron Civilian Committee Chairlady, Jacky Bently, who has known Frank since the day he joined the organisation said on final parade “Frank has been an outstanding cadet on this Squadron. He has always put 100% into everything he has done! He joined at 13 and 3 months as a young, arrogant boy and he is leaving tonight as a very charming and responsible young man. If any of the younger cadets follows in his footsteps, they won’t go far wrong. I am personally very proud of him and I want to thank him for everything he has done for the Squadron. Well done Frank.”
Frank was presented with a tankard engraved with the Squadron Crest on final parade by Squadron Commander, Flight Lieutenant Tim Hargraves. Flight Lieutenant Hargraves announced that Frank would not be leaving the Squadron entirely and would be returning on Monday evening as Civilian Instructor.
“I have no doubt that Frank will continue to give his all as he moves into the next step if his career in the Air Cadet Organisation, taking on the rank of Civilian Instructor. Frank is at the end of his career as a cadet but he is by no means finished with the organisation and we are all very excited to see what the future brings. Congratulations Frank!”
After parade, Frank was presented with a cake made by one of the other cadets, to then be given the typical cadet send off by his colleagues- flour and cling film!!
We are all very proud of Flight Sergeant Huckle and we wish him all the best for the future.