The Region’s Air Cadets were once again heavily involved in the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford.
This year was extra special for some of the cadets from Central and East Region, not only as a celebration of the Air Cadets 75th Anniversary, but for fantastic opportunities that they were given.
CWO Ben McMillan with Red 5
Cadet Warrant Officer Ben McMillan from 2484 (Cambourne) Detached Flight, as a reward for his Dacre Sword Nomination, was given a once in a life time opportunity to fly in the rear seat of one of the Famous Red Arrows Hawks.
This dream flight began at RAF Scampton, the home of the Red Arrows, where he was joined by the eight other lucky cadets nominated for the honour. From Scampton the aircraft flew in formation to RAF Fairford where they landed to be greeted by the eager National and local media people.
Ben flew with Flight Lieutenant Emmet Cox (Red 5) who expressed his great pleasure in being able to be able to do this for the Corps 75th Anniversary and for such a deserving cadet.
Still buzzing after his exciting experience, Ben said “ it was more than amazing and very special” and is certain that the memory will last a lifetime.
Although a flight with the Red Arrows would be a hard act to follow, other cadets from the Region had treats in store.
Matthew Lewis (Harry Potter’s famous Neville Longbottom) having a selfie
A cake specially made to celebrate the Anniversary was ceremoniously cut by Matthew Lewis (Harry Potter’s famous Neville Longbottom) a former Air Cadet from 2168 (Yeadon) Squadron who said he was thrilled to be asked to cut the cake in front of the air cadets and so many visitors, especially as he a former air cadet himself. Afterwards Matthew took time out to be photographed with cadets, including some from the Region and, of course, submitted himself to the obligatory “selfie”.
The Winner of the Reds Helmet Competition.
To round off day for or Region’s cadets, the winner of the Red Arrows Helmet Competition was announced and it was decided that the entry from Cadet Alex Braybrook from 115 (Peterborough) Squadron was the number one entry. Congratulation Alex.
Central and East cadets and staff can be justifiable proud of their contribution to the success of the day and the celebration of the 75th and also for their hard work and enthusiasm that helps the make the Air Tattoo such a resounding success and helps thank the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust for all they do for the Air Cadet Organisation.