A Stapleford Royal Air Force Air Cadet has been awarded his Silver Gliding Wings after flying solo following twelve hours of intensive training.
Cadet Warrant Officer Matthew Osbiston (18) managed this remarkable achievement on completion of his Air Cadet Gliding Scholarship at the 644 Volunteer Gliding Squadron (VGS) based at RAF Syerston, Nottinghamshire.
Instruction was provided by the volunteer staff at the VGS and all the flying experience was gained in the Air Cadet’s Viking Gliders. Matthew, along with other recipients of the scholarships, received the training and flying experience over several weekends. After satisfying his instructors that he was ready Matthew confidently undertook a solo flight successfully qualifying for his Silver Wings.
Not satisfied with being able to pilot a glider, Matthew is also undertaking the Air Cadet Navigation Scholarship at RAF Wittering to add to many other qualifications and awards he has gained during his busy five years as a cadet.
Although still not decided on his future, he is pursuing a place at university where he will, no doubt, become a member of the University Air Squadron.
“The Air Cadets has given me such a lot of fantastic opportunities, activities and qualifications but getting my Wings has topped the lot. This chance to learn to fly has only occurred because I am an Air Cadet and, most remarkably, it was free. The RAF Air Cadets is a brilliant organisation offering so many opportunities to teenagers willing to join and work at improving themselves” said Matthew.
Matthew is a member of 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Squadron.
Stapleford Air Cadet Flies High
