For ten Sleaford Air Cadets it was the opportunity to represent not just their squadron, but also Trent Wing Headquarters at a major event on its home station. RAF Digby holds it’s Spring Reception each year as an event to which local civic dignitaries, service charity organisers and military personnel meet for a convivial evening culminating in a fly past and the traditional sunset ceremony.
The cadets from Sleaford Squadron assisted the station’s regular personnel by performing a number of tasks during the course of evening to ensure the event ran smoothly. 2160 has had the honour to perform these tasks for a number of years come rain or shine; this year, following some poor weather over the previous twenty four hours the clouds parted and fine weather thankfully prevailed.
Actually getting to RAF Digby for the 17:00 assembly time is always a challenge on what is a normal school day; but as always the excellent support of the parents and the commitment of the cadets themselves ensured 2160 could step up to the mark.
For Cadet Corporal Lauren Clack the event took and unexpected turn when she found herself centre stage during the Sunset Ceremony. The Station Warrant Officer was seeking assistance with the lowering of RAF ensign ceremony and Corporal Clack volunteered for the task.
With her regular Army partner they performed the duty with real military precision drawing many favourable comments from then assembled guests.
Corporal Clack said of the event:- “I was nervous at first about performing my part in the lowering of the ensign, but my training as part of the Squadron banner party kicked in and I really felt proud of being part of the event.”
Wg Cdr Steve Hullott RAFVR(T) Retd)