The cadets had spent several weeks preparing for this big day, learning about the Air Cadet Organization, the Royal Air Force, navigation, camping skills and the rudiments of “drill” and many other new skills they will need as cadets. Wing Commander Phil Giles RAFVR(T) (retired), one time commander of the squadron and commander of the old East Midlands Wing, took the promise as the nine new members were admitted to the Corps. The evening, also saw the presentation of twelve First Aid Certificates, three BETEC certificates in Aviation Studies and a BETEC in Public Service by the Mayor of Stapleford. All these qualifications are Nationally recognized and were gained by the cadets mostly in their spare time.
After the formal part of the evening had concluded, the Officer Commanding, Flight Lieutenant Allan Munns, gave a talk on the Air Cadets and the squadron. Putting her on the spot, Allan asked Cadet Warrant Officer Jade Brock (18) to give her opinion of the ATC; “it is the most fantastic organization, almost everything is possible once you are in. I’ve done so much in the five years since I joined, none of which would have been possible had I not been in the Corps” she told the assembled dignitaries and parents.
