The Region’s Air Cadets Parade in Lincoln

As the Air Training Corps Flag fluttered in the breeze over Lincoln Castle, over 800 Royal Air Force Air Cadets and Staff of Central and East Region were celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Air Cadet Organisation at Lincoln Cathedral & Castle.
The Thanksgiving Service in the awe inspiring Cathedral was attended by Commandant Air Cadets Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty, the Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, Mr Toby Dennis, His Grace the Duke of Rutland, Air Commodore Jon Ford RAF (Ret’d), Group Captain Nigel Gorman the Regional Commandant, Group Captain Graham Bowerman and other distinguished Guests.
The six Wing Banners paraded through the congregation to be received by the Clergy and placed before the Altar before the Service commenced The Region Banner was laid upon the Altar.
During the Service Officer Commanding Trent Wing, Wing Commander Tony Wright, read the first lesson from Psalm 121. The second reading from 1 Timothy 4:1-16 was read by Cadet Warrant Officer Ellie-May Clark from 2000 (Eckington) Squadron.
An interesting Sermon by the Region’s padre, the Reverend Cannon Ron Tuck, told of his personal recollections of his long history with the Air Cadets.
Before the National Anthem and dismissal, the cadets were asked to renew their promise.
The Region Band also performed in the Cathedral under the direction of Squadron Leader Alan Glover.
Following the Service the Cadets and Staff formed up almost surrounding the Cathedral in preparation for their parade through the City to the Castle. The parade was led by the Region Band to the Castle entrance, where the salute was taken by Commandant Air Cadets and the Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire.
Inside the Castle grounds before being dismissed, the Commandant gave a short speech during which she thanked the cadets and staff for such a fantastic display.
A buffet was provided after the celebrations in the Assembly Rooms where the Regional Commandant said a few words before a special 75th cake, made by Civilian Instructor Heather Bicknell, was cut by a former Air Cadet from 1941, Commandant Air Cadets and the Lord Lieutenant. Showing their versatility, the exceptional musicians of the Region Band entertained those assembled with fitting background music.
All in all a splendid day and a great advertisement for the youth of today.