On 28 th July 2009 over 20 cadets from 1459 (Heart of England ) Sqn. were treated to a presentation from
504 ( County of Nottingham ) Sqn. RAF Auxiliary Regiment.

The presentation, given by Flt Lt Andy Ham and his team, began by introducing the cadets to the RAF Auxiliary Regiment and its role in today's theatres in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Many of the cadets had not heard of the volunteer regiment before this but they soon realised that it is not just the Territorial Army that has part time staff fighting for their future safety from the Taliban.

The presentation explained how the regular and auxiliary regiments train, work, rest and play in both the UK and abroad. The cadets were also shown a variety of weapons and equipment used.

After a safety brief they were then allowed to handle these under the close supervision of the team. Even the squadron staff got involved in trying out the safety clothing and weapons.

The visit helped bring an understanding to the cadets of what they see in the news on a daily basis in a format that they could relate to more easily.