Sunday 14 th September was a special day in the history of 487 Sqn Kingstanding and Perry Barr ATC. The Sqn, which was formed on 5 th February 1941, paraded along with members from the Sqn’s ex cadet association at the National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas in Staffordshire.

The Sqn had been invited to join a ceremony at the memorial to dedicate a tree to all those who have served on the Sqn through its history and in particular to those who fought in the Armed Forces during the Second World War.

A total of 57 people gathered around the tree and plaque for a short service in which dedications and speeches were made. CWO Gemma Walden read a short lesson which was well received by all. A poppy wreath was laid at the base of the tree by Ted Willets, who was the OC of 487 Sqn for over 20 years. Jack Smith, 84, an ex-Spitfire Pilot and who was the oldest person at the dedication, thanked members of the ex-cadet association for making the day possible. He also thanked the current cadets of 487 Sqn for making the effort to attend.

Flt Lt Brendan O’Neill, commanding officer of 487 Sqn commented “Today was a great day in the history of our Sqn. To parade with the original founding members of our Sqn was very humbling. All the staff and cadets of the current day Sqn wish to pass on their thanks for the invitation to attend today’s events by the ex cadet association. We are now re-developing our website so that the history of the sqn is there for all to see.”