Final Parade for 2008

Our final parade took place on the 21st December, where parents, staff and Wg Cdr Ladwa, came to commend cadets for their achievement throughout the year.

Once again, 493 Squadrons luck was on their side, as the weather was surprisingly clear and sunny. Spreading some light on the presentation, awards where given out for achievements in, Academic Studies, Drill & Discipline, Sport and attendance. Promotions from both Cdt to Cpl and Cpl to Sgt where also made.

Families had a rare opportunity to see their Sons and Daughters in action and explore the activities which they participate in. Professional photographs were taken of cadets and small refreshments were available, this gave cadets a chance to mingle with parents and meet wing staff.

Results:

Best Overall Cadet:- Cdt/Cpl Hughson

Best Recruit:- Cdt Cush and Cdt Cockburn

Best Drill:- Cdt Wilson

Best Academic Achevement:- Cdt Davies

Best Sportive Achievement:- Cdt Cush

Best Attendance:- Cpl/Sgt Bound & Sgt Cherqui

Promotions:

Cadet to Corporal:- Cdt/Cpl Karavadra & Cdt/Cpl Hughson

Corporal to Sergeant:- Cpl/Sgt Bound

Christmas Bag Packing

Each year 493 squadron, attend a bag pack at Maypole Sainsbury's to raise money for the squadron. This year was no different, over 25 cadets were packing up the Christmas turkey and all the stuffing. Donations were flooding in, as members of the public generously donated.

The day was a long 8hrs work with limited breaks. But this didn't put cadets off. Christmas spirits were high. A further three cadets and Adult Warrant Officer Hale spent most of the day recruiting for future cadets in the new year. Hopefully we raised a similar amount to last year's total.

Radio Course

On the 14 th December 7 cadets and 1 officer from 493 squadron took part in their full VHF radio operators course. Cadets learnt from the specially made power points in which they were shown how to conduct drill/codex/coded drill messages. Cadets also took part in practical sessions where they were in control of a radio net and also practised 'exercise air strike' (a game based on battleships.)

At the end of the session cadets were tested on their skills in a written examination. All cadets passed with flying colours with high marks such as 24/25. All cadets are now qualified to operate VHF unsupervised.

One Cadet said, 'It was great to be able to expand on my previous knowledge of VHF radio and put the newly acquired skills into practise.'

Cadets and Plt Off Atkinson give a big thank you to both Flt Lt Coates and Staff who made the day possible.

Articles Submitted by:-
Sgt. Scott Haynes 493 (Kings Heath) Sqn
30 Dec 08