RAIN could not dampen the spirits of Air Cadets from across Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing as they came together to compete in their annual Wing Field Competition.
Two days of competition, held at RAF Wyton, saw all 29 Squadrons and one Detached Flight compete in a series of leadership and teamwork activities to establish the best practical unit in the Wing. Activities ranged from aircraft recognition to first aid, command tasks to drill with various trophies and medals up for grabs for the winners.
During the weekend the annual Wing review saw over 500 cadets and volunteer adult staff on parade with the new Wing Banner which was presented earlier this year at the Wings 75th anniversary parade. This year’s reviewing officer was Air Vice Marshall Richard Knighton, Assistant Chief of the Air Staff. The parade was enhanced by a brilliant performance by the Wing band who are brought together from multiple Squadrons in the Wing.
After showing brilliant team work and putting in a tremendous effort this year’s field competition was won by 2331 (St Ives) Squadron who also won the prestigious drill competition. Second place was to 134 (Bedford) Squadron and in joint third were 73 (Huntingdon) and 104 (Cambridge) Squadrons. The Walker Trophy for best overall Squadron in Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing was awarded to 1220 (March) Squadron.
Individual awards presented included the Brackenborough Bowl for best female cadet in the Wing for the second year running to Cadet Warrant Officer Katherine Hill of 2461 (Sawston) Squadron and the Nolan Cup for best male cadet, also for the second year running, to Cadet Warrant Officer Ben McMillan of 2484 (Cambourne) Detached Flight. The Gibson Goblet for the best member of volunteer uniform staff was awarded to Flight Lieutenant Henry Bowden of 1451 (Haverhill) Squadron with Civilian Instructor Paul Ogram from 2417 (Newmarket) Squadron winning the Davies Cup for best Civilian Instructor.
Squadron Leader David McMillan who organised the event said “this was a fantastic weekend enjoyed by cadets and staff alike. It serves to remind us all why we volunteer. It has been a privilege not only to organise such a successful event but also to be part of the best Wing in the Corps”.
The full list of winners along with more photographs from the event can be found at on our website: http://bedscambswing.co.uk/ and our facebook page: www.facebook.com/BedsandCambsWing
Beds & Cambs Competition Weekend
