Members of the 868 (Mirfield) Squadron gathered together, along with a selection of specially invited guests, at Christ the King Church in Battyeford for the group’s summer presentation event.
The evening, which began with a stirring performance by the Squadron band, saw over 157 cadets presented with certificates and awards to represent their participation and achievements in the first half of the year, while Pilot Officer Matthew Walker gave a welcoming address.
Among the guests were HM Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, Major Stan Hardy, Mayor of Mirfield, councillor Sean Guy, and Mr Paul Brook, headteacher of Castle Hall Academy, which is currently serving as a temporary base for the Squadron while construction progresses on a new Cadet Centre for Mirfield.
Also present was Squadron Leader Peter Doubell, Sector Commander for South and West Yorkshire Wing and previous Squadron Commander of 868 Squadron.
Various trophies were handed out for the best individual performances, including best recruit to Kai Land; best cadet to Riley Ferry; best NCO to Laila Walker; and Esprit de Corps to Max Allen.
Other awards went to Blake Hepworth (drill), Emily Richards (first aid), Lily Dillon (shooting), Laila Walker (music), Hadley Oakes (sports) and Jacob Abraham (archery), while Sergeant Neo Graham won the inter-flight competition for the first half of the year.
Squadron Leader Doubell also announced a special commemorative presentation to Warrant Officer Michelle Alford to mark 40 years of her involvement with the Air Training Corps while other staff members were also recognised and awarded long-service certificates for 12 and 24 years’ service to Civilian Instructors Simon Thornton and Alex Balmforth respectively.
Sergeant Leah Silvester was also presented with a certificate for completing a Combined Initial Course at the Royal Air Force Air Cadets Command and Leadership School at RAF Cranwell.
Another presentation came from Mirfield stalwart Tim Wood who presented the Squadron with a certificate to note their ongoing involvement, and support, for the local community, and a cheque for £250 as a donation towards squadron funds.
Tim said: “I have been involved with youth organisations and band music since 1968, and they have both been a passion of mine.
“I have always been a follower of the 868 Squadron. They do so much good in the community. They put on numerous displays in the community, and they are a good set of people.
“They are all very smartly turned out, always immaculate. I am always on hand to assist in any way I can, and I hope this success will continue for many more years to come.”
The Mirfield Air Cadet Squadron currently meets on Tuesday and Friday evenings at Castle Hall Academy, Richard Thorpe Avenue, WF14 9PH. For more information, please visit or email [email protected]
9. 868 (Mirfield) Squadron
Assembled cadets with Deputy Lieutenant, Mayor of Mirfield, Sqn Ldr Doubell and Plt Off Walker. Photo: SUB