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Autum/Winter 2016

Magazine for Cadets in Yorkshire and the HumberReviewade

The

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Commandant flies through the air with the greatest of ease

Sporting StarS | Wet, Wet, Wet in London | aduLt reCognition

Autumn/WIntER 2016 CADET REVIEW4 5

ContentsAutumn/Winter 2016

Editor Contact DetailsColonel David Fuller OBE, E-mail: [email protected]

If you are interested in joining one of the Cadet Forces as an Adult Instructor or as a cadet full information can be found on the national websites with links to local contacts:

Sea Cadets www.ms-sc.orgArmy Cadets

www.armycadets.comAir Cadets

www.aircadets.org

Publishing and AdvertisingLance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, NN16 8NL Tel:01536 512624

Printed Lance Print Ltd, Unit 3 Houghton Hill Industries, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE28 2DH Tel: 01480 492183

DesignedRowena Wilson, [email protected], Lance Publishing Ltd

The views expressed by the contributors to The Cadet Review are not necessarily those of the Editor, MOD, Royal Navy, Army, Royal Air Force or the publishers and do not reflect SCC, ACF or ATC policy. All precautions are taken to ensure accuracy. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. This magazine is published by kind permission of the Chairman, RFCA for Yorkshire and the Humber.

Dates for contributions to be received by the Editor are as follows; Spring Edition Copy by 15 Jan. Summer Edition Copy by 15 May. Autumn/Winter Copy by 15 Sept.

All contributions to be supplied in Word Format and photographs preferably in

jpeg format at the highest possible quality. Contributions to be sent on CD through

each unit Public Relations Officer as below:

Sea Cadet CorpsPO Joe Thornhill

[email protected]

Army Cadet ForceHumberside & South Yorkshire

SI Donna [email protected]

Army Cadet ForceYorkshire (North & West)

Lieutenant Ken [email protected]

Air Training CorpsCentral and East Yorkshire Wing

Squadron Leader Brian [email protected]

South and West Yorkshire WingFlight Lieutenant Steve [email protected]

Colonel David Fuller OBE, Editor

Welcome

10 Joint Service News

26 Army Cadets – Yorkshire (North and West) ACF

34 Army Cadets – Humberside and South Yorkshire ACF

20 Air Training Corps Central & East Yorkshire Wing

www.rfca-yorkshire.org.uk/cadets

For more info on the RFCA visit

48 Sea Cadet Corps

A nnual Camps have been and gone, and no doubt all the hard work and effort has paid off,

judging by the happy, smiling faces seen at all the camps across the summer, whatever colour uniform the cadets have been wearing. It was a pleasure to see that Humberside and South Yorkshire ACF managed to take so many cadets to Sennelager in Germany, where they enjoyed a splendid welcome and some superb training opportunities. In addition, our hockey players did the region proud reaching the finals of the national hockey competition, held in York, just being pipped at the post by sudden death penalties – far more exciting by a long chalk than watching some professional sports! The Air Training Corps reached their 75th Anniversary this year,

congratulations are in order, and to celebrate they have participated in a torch relay across the country including the Wings in Yorkshire.

By the time this edition is published it will be almost the end of the year, which seems to have flown past, so best wishes for Christmas and the New Year and we shall look forward to seeing all your stories of whatever events you have planned across autumn and winter.

Please continue to send, high quality stories and pictures in for the magazine, which makes for excellent reading material, not just around Yorkshire and the Humber, but nationally. Keep sending your contributions, but do please note the copy dates below.

16 Air Training Corps South & West Yorkshire Wing

58 Combined Cadet Force


ThiS guiDE has been prepared to help contributors in the submission of articles which will assist both the authors and the Editor in selection of suitable stories for inclusion in the magazine, reduce the effort required in editing and ultimately aim to include your stories.

Of late many of the articles received have been poorly written, in terms of interest, timeliness, grammar, spelling and the provision of photographs has in many cases been so poor that they have been rejected. Not only is this a poor reflection on unit achievements, but also in some cases means that the story cannot be used without a good picture to illustrate the point. Contributions are always welcome from all Cadet Force units within Yorkshire and the Humber, Sea Cadets, Army Cadets, Air Cadets and Combined Cadet Force Contingents. Regrettably the number of contributions from the CCF remains low.

It is important that quality control of all contributions is maintained through well-written, interesting articles accompanied by high quality photographs. This requires that careful, accurate proof-reading including that grammar, punctuation, spelling mistakes and reference to dates long past should be corrected at unit level before submission to the Editor.

All contributions are to be supplied to the Editor by the dates shown inside the front cover of the Cadet Review which are 15 January, 15 May and 15 September for the Spring, Summer and

Autumn editions respectively. Any copy received after the deadline is unlikely to be included in the next issue, and may not be rolled over to the subsequent issue especially if it contains times, dates etc. which would render it well out of date by the time the next edition is published. The Editor is happy to take articles at any time between publication dates and would rather have a drip feed of stories than a huge amount to edit in one go.

As a guide the size of individual articles should be between 300 and 500 words, or around an A4 sheet of paper, together with photographs. However, longer articles would always be considered for major events such as expeditions, Annual Camps, foreign exchanges etc.

The Editor will exercise his prerogative to reduce article lengths, to meet the limitations set by the publisher and by costs. Units should be aware that no guarantee can be given that all they submit will be published.

Articles should be submitted either by email, DVD/CD or memory stick and should be in Microsoft Word format, preferably Times New Roman font at size 12. Abbreviations are initially to be explained in full at the first use in the article e.g. Sea Cadet Corps (SCC) which can then be used on subsequent uses, beware though the use of standard military abbreviations as many of the readers may have little or no previous military service. If in doubt – spell it out!

When submitting articles please ensure the author is identified and that first names

are included as these add detail to the story and personalise it, especially for the cadets who are featured. The lack of first names renders many stories impersonal and are often rejected, or it takes an inordinate amount of time to find these out, sometimes with the same result. If in any doubt, please look at previous editions of the magazine.

Photographs

These are highly desirable and must be submitted in digital format. They should be as high quality as possible and a minimum of 300 dpi. If applicable it would be helpful for the picture number to be inserted at the relevant point in the text where the photographs are to appear, alongside a caption for that image. Captions

should be shown in the body

of the article, not as the image

title. under no circumstances

should images be embedded

into Word documents as these

cannot be worked on by the

Editor or publisher. Only those photographs which the subscriber wishes to use in the article should be submitted. Images may be submitted as for stories and should be in JPEG format.

GUIDANCEFOR SUBMISSION OF ARTICLES

Spring2015

Magazine for Cadets in Yorkshire and the HumberReviewade

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ProMotions all round | CHildren of Courage award | 15 (nortH east) Brigade MarCHes off | roYal visit to ts iron duke


CALLING ALL WINTER MOUNTAINEERSCADET CENTRE FOR ADVENTUROUS TRAINING (CCAT)

Cadet 16+ and CFAv’s Scottish Winter Skills Courses

You dont wan to miss the bus!CADET CENTRE FOR ADVENTUROUS TRAINING (CCAT)

Cadet and Adult Ski Courses, Bavaria, Southern Germany

WHEN 11-17 March 2017Winter Mountain Foundation (WMF)Winter Climbing Foundation (WCF)

WHERE Feshiebridge Lodge, Nr Aviemore, Scotland.

WHATJoint Services.Winter Mountain Foundation (WMF) – This course is an introduction to winter mountaineering. It is designed to train students in the essential skills to becoming competent in the winter mountain environment as part of a led group.Pre-course - candidates must have completed Summer Mountain Foundation (SMF). 12 x vacancies

Winter Climbing Foundation (WCF) – This course provides an introduction to sonw and ice climbing in the Scottish winter environment. It is designed to train students in the skills to become competent ice climbing seconds on a multi pitch route. Pre-course candidates must have completed Basic Rock Climbing (BRC) and WMF. 6 x vacancies

COST£50.00 This includes accommodation, catering, equipment, full instruction, insurance and transport during the course.

HOWA course bid must be placed on WESTMINSTER by the unit and a unit authorized CCAT course application with a cheque for £50.00 made payable to CCAT or BACs transfer sent to HQ CCAT by COP 20 Jan 17.

APPLICATIONCCAT Course applications are to sent to: Ms Roslyn Edwards, HQ CCAT, Capel Curig TC, Betws-Y-Coed, Conwy, LL24 0DS. Tel: 01690 720156

WWW.ARmyCADETADVENTURE.CO.Uk

WHEN AND WHATBSKI1 10-18 February 2017 (Cadets 16+ and CFAV’s) Ski Foundation Level 1 (SF1)Intermediate Ski Course (ISC)New Advanced Ski Course (ASC) – must have completed ISC. This course includes an overnight tourAlpine Ski Leader (ASL) (CFAV’s Only)

BSKI2 18-25 February 2017 (Cadets 16+ and CFAV’s)Ski Foundation Level 1 (SF1)Intermediate Ski Course (ISC)New Advanced Ski Course (ASC) – must have completed ISC. This course includes an overnight tour

WHEREThe Outdoor Zentrum, Bihlerdorf, near Sonthofen, Northern Alps, Bavaria, Germany

COST£525 for the SF1, ISC & ASC courses£625 for the SSS ASL courseThis includes transport to and from the UK, transport in country, accommodation, full catering, ski equipment, lift passes, full instruction and insurance.

Candidates will be centrally collected and transported to and from the UK by coach.

The Outdoor Zentrum offers 2-4 person accommodation, dining facilities, shop, lecture rooms, ski/boot room and internet access.

HOWCompleted, unit authorised CCAT application forms with a 50% deposit are to be received by COP 2 Dec 16. All course application bids are to be placed on WESTMINSTER. Cheques or BACs transfer (by request) to be made payable to CCAT.

APPLICATIONCCAT Course applications are to sent to: Ms Roslyn Edwards, HQ CCAT, Capel Curig TC, Betws-Y-Coed, Conwy, LL24 0DS. Tel: 01690 720156www.armycadetadventure.co.uk


10 JOINT SERVICE NEWS

NEW HEAD OF RESERVE FORCES’ ANd CAdETS’ ASSOCIATION AppOINTEdThE RESERvE Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (RFCA) for Yorkshire and The Humber, which supports the well-being of the region’s reserves and cadets, has appointed a new chief executive.

Colonel Jason Wright has taken up the position at the Association’s York headquarters, having previously been in the Army for 27 years, most recently as the policy adviser to the Chief of General Staff in London where he led on strategic-level engagement.

Having been a member of the

youth organisations in the world. It is a great privilege to be heading up the organisation responsible for the well-being of both of these. I have already been struck by the commitment and energy shown by the people who work with the Reserve and Cadet forces across the region, the vast majority of whom are volunteers, and I am genuinely excited at the prospect of being part of such an excellent cause.”

Commissioned into The Green Howards in 1989, Colonel Wright has served in a wide variety of joint and Army posts, including commanding Northumbria Universities Officer Training Corps in Newcastle and being seconded to HM Treasury as the Defence Policy

FOR 60 YEARS ACF SERvICEhARolD MCMillAN was Prime Minister, The Beatles were just starting and Ben Hur was cleaning up the Oscars when Barry Johnson began his Army Cadet Force career as an Adult Instructor. The year was 1960 and he had just completed serving three years as a cadet in the Barnsley Detachment.

After training cadets there for 24 years he then commanded all the cadet detachments between Barnsley and Rotherham. During 1975 he organised a visit for 30 cadets to Hohne in West Germany as guests of the 13/18 Royal Hussars, a wonderful experience for the cadets as the majority had never been overseas before. A second visit took place during 1985 to the Royal Military Police based at Dortmund, West Germany.

He has always encouraged the young people to join schemes like the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, CVQO and BTEC, and there are a lot of young people in the community

HITTING TARGETSwho he has assisted in preparing them for the future and the challenges that lie ahead. In a world growing more complex by the day he believes that the ACF continues to set expectations of selfless behaviour, encourage self-discipline and respect whilst providing both challenge and excitement for so many outstanding young people.

During his ACF career his main passion has been both small bore and large bore target rifle shooting, together with training both adults and cadets in the skills of both military and civilian shooting. During 1985 he was appointed to the post of Shooting Officer for Yorkshire (N and W) ACF and remained in post until 2010, where he was responsible for training both adults and cadets. Over the years he and his team have covered all aspects of cadet shooting and safely trained thousands of cadets in the skills of competition at county, national and international

standards in the world of cadet shooting. During the same period, he was also appointed as ACF Shooting Officer for 15 (NE) Brigade from 1988 until 2010; concurrently he was invited to be a member of the ACFA Shooting committee.

The ultimate honour and a privilege in any sport is to represent one’s country. In 1993 he went to Ottawa in Canada to conduct a survey and give a presentation to the ACFA Shooting Committee with recommendations to improve the 6 week Cadet Leader Instructor Marksmanship Course. Following this the course became part of the Annual British Exchange Programme and 1995 he was invited to take 15 cadets from the UK to attend the CLIMC held on the Connaught Range complex near Ottawa. During 1995, 1996 and 1997 he organised cadet teams from Yorkshire (N and W) ACF, HSY ACF and Cumbria ACF to compete in shooting competitions alongside Irish cadets in The Northern Ireland Inter-Service Cadet Rifle Meeting held on the Ballykinler Ranges near Belfast. In 1998 he commanded the ‘first ever’ Great Britain Under 19s Team to compete

in the South African National Rifle Championships held at Bloemfontein in the Free State. 2006 found him back in Canada as the Commandant of the British Cadet Team competing in the Canadian National Rifle Championships.

He also assisted in the production of The Cadet Force Skill at Arms and Shooting Pocket Book in 2005. During his long service he was the ‘first’ Cadet Force Adult to be awarded 5 clasps to the CFM in 2008 and he was awarded the MBE in 2009. In January 2010 he was employed as a Civilian Assistant with Yorkshire (N and W) ACF and then a transfer to HSY

ACF followed during 2012 as a CA to the Barnsley Detachment.

Life has turned a full circle for him, back to Barnsley where it began all those years ago giving him a total of 60 years’ service. Shooting is in his blood, as the secretary of his local Rifle Club he has a formed a junior members section which is growing from strength to strength. A regular member of the HM Prison Service Team he will be representing Great Britain next year in Los Angeles attending the World Police and Fire Games; this will be his 9th and possibly his last games as he looks to hang up his boots and other bits of shooting equipment.

The cadets and adults in Yorkshire and further afield have much to thank Major Barry Johnson for; his dedication to the sport, enthusiasm, and his dry sense of Yorkshire humour spring immediately to mind!

Army Strategy Team and the subsequent design of Army 2020, which led to the restructure of the Armed Forces and the need for a significant increase in numbers of Reserves, Colonel Wright is ideally placed to lead the Association into this new era for the Armed Forces.

Colonel Wright, who has lived in Burneston, North Yorkshire, for the last 12 years, said: “The Reserve Forces are an integral part of the UK’s defence, and the cadet movement continues to be regarded as one of the foremost

Advisor where he was charged with advising on all aspects of the additional costs of military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Serving in his earlier career with the Airmobile and Armoured Infantry, Colonel Wright has seen operational tours in Northern Ireland, Bosnia and Kosovo.

Barry as a cadet in Barnsley, August 1959

Winner TA Individual Small Bore Champion, July 1991

The British Cadet Rifle Team, July 2015

NATIONAL HOCkEyoN ThE 2/3rd July 2016, on behalf of the Army Cadet Force Association (ACFA), 4th Infantry Brigade played host to the National Girls Hockey and Tug of War which was off to an extremely good start at Imphal Barracks and York University.

On a variable day (weather-wise), not unusual for our region, the hockey competition once again started off well for the region who put in an excellent performance winning all of their 3 matches to win the pool and get through to the semi-finals in the afternoon.

The semi-final was a close match but our girls were triumphant over Eastern region and were through to the final and once again up against our nemesis team, Northern Ireland, who have managed to beat us in the finals for the last 5 years.

In front of a packed crowd of spectators (cadets, VIPs and Civil dignitaries) a close fought match followed and it was 0-0 at full time, after extra time still 0-0, and the game went to penalty flicks and after the mandatory 5 flicks is still 0-0! It then went to sudden death, and disaster struck, it was all over once again as victory was snatched at the last gasp as Northern Ireland scored a goal.

Slightly disappointing for the region but that’s the rules.

It was nice after the competition was over for Colonel Keith Dowell, Commandant 2Bn NI, a keen hockey player himself, who was enthralled by the whole competition to come up and say “you know the better team lost”.

Our Tug of War teams from Yorkshire (North and West) and Humberside and South Yorkshire ACFs represented the region, both boys and girls, were also competing alongside the hockey at the National Tug of War championships. Once again our teams put on a good show against those more semi-professional teams from around the country and once again it is commented on that our teams seem to be getting stronger year on year and could one year shock the organisers and take the trophy.

All our visitors on the day from ACFA, local dignitaries and MPs, plus the many other visitors from RFCA etc. were impressed with the event, organisation and in particular our cadet’s performance and enthusiasm.

Colonel David Fuller, 4 Brigade Colonel Cadets and ACFA Vice Chairman congratulated all those cadets who took part and thanked the officers and instructors who attended the event with their cadets for their support and hard work. Special thanks were also made to Yorkshire (North and West) ACF who not only provided accommodation, but assisted and administrated this prestigious National event.

WEll DoNE to all the officers and adult instructors from across Yorkshire who graduated and were presented with their CVQO certificates at a ceremony held at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst on 14 October 2016. The awards were presented by Lord Lingfield and included to Squadron Leader Jim Williamson, Officer Commanding of Sector Two, South and West Yorkshire Wing ATC, together with former SI Charlotte Johnson of Humberside and South Yorkshire ACF. Pictured is Squadron Leader Williamson with Lord Lingfield.

CVQO GRADUATION

Autumn/WIntER 2016 CADET REVIEW 1312

ATC 75 TORCH RELAySUNdAY 24TH TO TUESdAY 26TH JULY 2016

ThE AiR Cadet National Torch Relay to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Air Training Corps passed its way through the Central and East Yorkshire Wing in late July. On its journey from John O’Groats to Land’s End it would enter our wing at Middlesbrough when it was handed over by the Durham and Northumberland Wing before going to Darlington and then on to Whitby where it passed onwards to Fylingdales and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Eden Camp, York Minster, the National Railway Museum and on to RAF Linton on Ouse where it was met by the Air Cadet Regional Commandant, Group Captain Mark Leeming, Regional and Wing staff, Station officers and the Combined Cadet Force who were on camp at Linton.

It was then taken to No 9 Air Experience Flight where Cadet Warrant Officer Daisy Ashworth of 110 Squadron Detached Flight, based at RAF Linton on Ouse flew it over the station in a Grob Tutor piloted by Flight Lieutenant Dave Cuthbertson.

After the f light it was handed over to Flight Lieutenant Chris Crebbin of 58 (Harrogate) Squadron who, with his own squadron cadets and some from the nearby 1953 (Knaresborough) Squadron took it around for the evening in Harrogate and Knaresborough. They visited the Harrogate War Memorial, Stonefall Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery, and various sites in both Harrogate and Knaresborough. The Torch even got arrested by North Yorkshire Police.

At Squadron HQ it was paraded along with the Squadron Banner and the Squadron’s Air Defence Cadet Corps Banner (the forerunner of the Air Training Corps between 1938 and 1941). For information the Air Training Corps was formed on 5th February 1941, and the torch was held there overnight.

The following morning it was taken into Nidderdale by Flight Lieutenant Crebbin and cadets, visiting the fantastic scenery and in particular Brimham Rocks, which offered some more fantastic photo opportunities. Finally, it was transferred to 35 (Wetherby) Squadron where Flight Lieutenant Jamie Babbin and cadets took it to ‘Soap Land’ at Emmerdale Farm before going to Strensall Barracks in York to hand it on to the South and West Yorkshire Wing.

Up the steps to Whitby Abbey

Wing Commander Steve Wiggins and Sgt George Clemitshaw

RAF Linton on Ouse reception


HOW THE TORCH RELAy CAME ABOUTBy Squadron Leader Dennis Thynne, Regional Project Officer

To CElEbRATE the 75th Anniversary of the Air Training Corps a number of events have been organised to mark this occasion one of them being the Torch Relay. So why did we decide to use a torch? The torch is the symbol on the back of the Cadet Forces Medal, it is also a symbol of enlightenment towards training and that’s what we do in the Air Training Corps. Then came the task of finding someone willing to manufacture the torch. The original idea was to contact the manufacturers of the Olympic Torch used the UK in 2012, but this turned out to be a ridiculous price of between £3000 and £4000. After some searching a company informed me of an apprentice school called South West Durham Training Ltd, based at Newton Aycliffe. I contacted them and they were willing to make the torch at no cost as it would help their apprentices in their modules of manufacturing skills. The apprentice school managed to get the 3D drawings, but were unable to achieve the flame effect; this became a specialist skill so they contacted a company called Springfield NE Limited. This is a privately owned company by Mr and Mrs Colin and Marion Milsom and they took the task on, again with no cost provided they could be given advertising rights which was agreed.

The original plan was to have a torch made of the same material as the Olympic torch, but it was decided it would not be feasible as it was going to be handled by so many people and have such a distance to travel that is why we decided to have a second torch made. The torch was then manufactured by Springfield to such a high standard

that it now posed a problem with the weight. The original target weight was 2kgs, however the torch actually weighed 4kgs. Springfield reduced the weight by half a kilo which meant the torch now weighed 3.5kgs (7.7lbs). So because of this weight factor it was decided to produce a Mini Torch, or what has now been christened as the ‘Stunt Torch’ because it can be used in aircraft or where it is unsafe to use the main torch.

The torch was to travel from John O Groats to Land’s End finishing up at Predannack Airfield, home of 626 VGS (Volunteer Gliding Squadron). While en route the torch was to pass through as many cadet activities and local landmarks as possible. The torch could travel by land, sea or air, it did not need to be carried in a relay formation by cadets, it could be flown from point to point so it could travel through each region by any mode of transport.

It was already decided that after the Relay, one of the torches would go into the museum at RAF Hendon along with the 75th Anniversary presentation on the history of the Air Cadet movement, then when the exhibition ends at Easter 2017 it will be moved to Headquarters Air Cadets, but there were no plans for the second torch. Marion Milson from Springfield came up with the idea of raffling the second torch for £1, and you can now buy tickets on the cadet website. It was also decided to make a further 75 Mini Stunt Torches which can be bought for a Cost of £195 each. For further information or if you wish to purchase one of these souvenir torches please contact Marion Milsom at Springfield NE Ltd or [email protected]

BAvARIAN

By CWO Emma Thompson

oN ThE evening of Friday 19th August, six members of the Air Cadets from Yorkshire boarded a coach headed towards Bavaria, Germany to take part in their Gold Duke of Edinburgh expeditions. The Cadet Expeditions to Bavaria run each year and have been doing so for over twenty years, being open to all three cadet forces, with staff coming together from both the ATC and the ACF.

The team met for the first time at the practice expedition in the Yorkshire Dales in June. There were originally around forty cadets who wanted to go on to Bavaria, who were split into six teams according to where they came from. This meant that CI Josh Gibbons, CWO Emma Thompson, Cadet Flight Sergeants Joel Sutcliffe, Jenna Sykes and Luke Harrison from South and West Yorkshire Wing were put in a group with Cadet Sergeant Will Shaw from Central and East Yorkshire Wing. This mix of people who had never met could have been the biggest potential problem for the team on the practice expedition, along with some injuries, but the group was quick to click and found it easy to work together.

By the time the team boarded

the coach the group were good friends and were eager for the rest of the trip. The coach journey was a long one, setting off from Cumbria at 1400, with several pick-ups on the way down to Dover. Then there was the ferry crossing to France, and the long drive to Bavaria through Belgium and Germany. The cadets got through this long journey with sleep, films and the odd Burger King.

The rest of Saturday after the cadets arrived was spent settling in to the hostel which was to be the base of operations for the week. There was tea and briefings, then bed, as most of the cadets were eager to catch up on their sleep.

Sunday was the acclimatisation day, where the teams had to climb the nearby mountain, the Grünten, with their DofE supervisors, to check the team’s fitness and navigation skills. The day started off cold and rainy, which hid the true height of the Grünten from the team. However, after a hot chocolate from the hütte, the team carried on through the rain and made it to the top to have lunch at the First World War memorial.

As they were descending, the weather began to clear and the team were able to enjoy a stein of Coke in the sun. When they finally reached the bottom, they were also treated to an ice-cream by their assessor, before they spent the evening having their kit checked and planning their expedition.

Monday morning was spent finishing off route cards, which included using the German maps and booking campsites. However, the team was quick to finish with the promise of swimming and souvenir shopping in the local town of Obersdorf, which was a traditional little Bavarian town. Monday was a fun and relaxing day, before the real work began on the Tuesday.

All the cadets were up at 0700 on the Tuesday, ready to get dropped off at their starting locations nice and early. The team, who had named themselves The Yorkshireteers, were dropped off at Tanheim, where they were able to catch a cable car to the top of the mountain range. The plan for day one was to loop around the mountain range, soaking up the incredible views and then to come back round to camp at the lake in Haldensee. It was an absolutely gorgeous day and the Yorkshireteers managed to enjoy both the culture and the views, amusing the locals with their county’s flag and their big backpacks. A highlight of the day was seeing the many types of livestock, which included cows, goats, pigs and alpacas. The goats in particular were very friendly!

The team eventually arrived at the campsite and between

broken German from Josh and Will and a handy card that explained the DofE award to the campsite owners, the team booked in for the night and also managed to get the campsite for half the price. Then it was time to put up the tents and cook tea, although by the time all that was done, the lake no longer looked a welcoming as it had done in the afternoon sun and the team instead sat and stargazed before going to bed.

The plan for Day 2 was to walk from Haldensee to Steinach. Shortly after setting off, the team gained two extra members in the form of two horses that followed them, to the delight of most of team and to the terror of Jenna, who hates horses. There was a short stop in the town of Gran where the team got to look at the various churches before they set off up yet another mountain. This one was a hard one, especially as the day got hotter and hotter, into the thirties, and one member suffered with repeated dislocations in her knees. They later found out from another cadet who spoke fluent German that every time they thought they were ascending 10m, it was actually 40m! However, when the team met the assessors at the top, they found that they had made good time and were only half an hour later than they had said on their route card. The team treated themselves to an extended lunch break, before heading back down the mountain, although by this stage, they had crossed the border to Austria. They were also entertained by a German who knew about Yorkshire and sang them a song about the unpredictability of the Yorkshire weather. When they reached the cable car station, they realised they were well over the eight hours’ activity time required for the DofE award and caught a cable car to the bottom, where they then carried on the short distance to the campsite, which they were sharing with the team from Northumbria ACF. The team even had time to sunbathe!

Day 3 was a day of crossing borders and the team went from Austria to Germany and back again throughout the day as they travelled to Jungholz via the town of Pfronten. They used the day to explore the local culture and went in search of the castle in Pfronten. However, after about an hour, they came upon a plaque which revealed to them the fact that the castle had actually fallen to ruins years ago. They then decided to explore the town’s Catholic Church instead. The day was probably the hottest of the expedition, with the tarmac melting in some places. After dinner, the team realised that they were running very low on water and dished out what was remaining between the members. Thankfully, they came to an establishment about half an hour later where they were able to fill up and carry on. Perhaps the funniest moment of the day was when the team stopped for a short break while coming up a mountain. All of a sudden, Luke threw his bag down on the floor, followed by half of his clothing and started screaming. After a very short panic, the team realised that he had sat in a nest of ants and they were biting him. They quickly sorted it out between them and carried on to the campsite.

The Yorkshireteers were the

first of three cadet teams to reach the campsite that evening and so were all set up when the second team, which was a mix of the Irish, Welsh and Scottish cadets, arrived. However, it was another couple of hours before the final team arrived, and they had to cook and put up their tents in the dark.

The final day began with a rude awakening, with the Irish playing Bohemian Rhapsody at 0530 in the morning. Fortunately, the team were able to get back to sleep for a few hours and set off at a more reasonable time of 0800. This day was a nice, gentle day in comparison to the mountains of the previous three days, with the original route length was cut on account of injuries in the group. The group had a leisurely walk and finished in the town of Bad Hindelang, where their assessor bought them all an ice-cream for a job well done.

From there, it was back for showers, tea and a debrief before the 23 hour long coach journey home for the Yorkshireteers. The team had all successfully completed their Gold expeditions and for some, that was the final section of their awards while others still had to complete the other sections. Either way, everyone had enjoyed a fantastic experience with new people in a beautiful country.

GOLD


swy wing16 AIR TRAINING CORpS

MIRFIELd AIR CAdETS AT LORd-LIEUTENANTS’S GARDEN PARTyDR iNgRiD Roscoe, Lord-Lieutenant for West Yorkshire, hosted a Garden Party to celebrate HM the Queen’s 90th birthday. The event was held at the home of the West Yorkshire Lieutenancy, Bowcliffe Hall in Bramham on Saturday 25th June.

Wanting support with running the day, and recognising the significance of the hall to the history of British aviation (the past home of Robert Blackburn of Blackburn Aircraft fame), she turned to the Air Training Corps for help with staffing the entrance gate, car-parking and in the hospitality tents.

On the day a party of cadets and staff from 868 (Mirfield) Squadron turned out and provided smart and enthusiastic support, which gained them appreciation from Dr Roscoe and many of the guests, who featured some of the most influential people in the county.

Before the guests started to arrive the cadets and staff were briefed by Flt Lt Peter

Doubell about their duties for the day, Bowcliffe Hall, Robert Blackburn and Blackburn Aircraft, with special emphasis on the Blackburn Wing Conference and Events Centre, a stunning aerofoil shaped building that appears to be ‘floating’ in the trees. Appropriately equipped to provide information to party guests if needed, the team then took post at their various stations and the event was ready to begin.

The Garden Party was formally opened by the Rt Revd Bishop of

Pictured with the Lord Lieutenant is CWO Leah Silvester

Leeds, Nick Baines, and Dr Roscoe followed this with the opportunity to make presentations to two of the Air Cadet staff: Flt Lt Peter Doubell and his wife Sue, a Civilian Instructor with the squadron, who received a certificate to mark 24 years long and dedicated voluntary

service to the Air Training Corps; Peter received the fourth bar to his Cadet Forces Medal recognising 38 years uniformed adult service with the cadet forces.

Attractions at the event included: Yorkshire Air Ambulance fly-in, classic cars, West Yorkshire Fire Service, West Riding Woodcarvers, a swing band from Huddersfield University and birds of prey.

Having enjoyed fine weather and a very successful afternoon, Dr Roscoe posed for photographs with the Air Cadet party, and thanked them for their support. The cadets all agreed that they thoroughly enjoyed the experience and appreciated the honour bestowed on them by being invited to help out at such a prestigious event.

BRIGHOUSE 1940S WEEkENDEACh YEAR the West Yorkshire town of Brighouse leaps back in time to the 1940s. Locals and people from far and wide take the opportunity to dress for the occasion in war-time costume and enjoy side shows, parades, song and dance of the era, and stalls and attractions from a variety of organisations – including 868 (Mirfield) Squadron Air Cadets.

The event was opened by “Winston Churchill” and the parade reviewed by “General Patton”.

The Squadron mounted a publicity stall and, with their Corps of Drums, took part in the parades. After the parade, the musicians also gave an impromptu performance of one of their static routines, gaining much applause and appreciation from the onlookers.

Squadron Commander, Flt

Lt Peter Doubell, said “this is a wonderful community event with a very happy and welcoming atmosphere. It is a pleasure to be here with the cadets, and for them to have the opportunity to show themselves to good effect in the public eye. They have all contributed with great enthusiasm and enjoyed the day.”

SOUTH ANd WEST YORkSHIRE WING COMpLETE 100STE vIERdAAGSEBy Sqn Ldr James Docherty

ThE WiNg once again took on the 4 day Marches in Nijmegen, with all team members successfully completing the marches. This year marks the 100th year of the event, making it even more special, with the final salute being taken by Willem-Alexander, King of the Netherlands.

After months of training, the Wing team assembled at 148 Squadron for the start of their journey to Nijmegen. The team travelled down initially to RAF Northolt before meeting with other teams to travel to Nijmegen.

The team arrived at Heumensoord camp, the team formed part of the 800 strong British Military Contingent, the second largest contingent in the event. They spent a few days acclimatising to the conditions and exploring the surrounding area, before preparing for the marches ahead.

Tuesday morning saw the team up and ready early in the morning ready to start the marches. Several hours and kilometres later, the team returned back to camp after a successful day marching. The team were all in good spirits, despite the very warm weather.

Wednesday and Thursday saw very much the same for the team, very early starts and very warm weather. However, the team continued to do well, retaining

all the team members, something other teams were not able to do.

Friday saw the team up early for the final day of marching. Buoyed on by the thought of the final day and the spirit of the event, the team continued on to the end. Despite heavy rain earlier in the day, the team continued to the end, taking part in the final march past at the end of the event, with the official salute being taken by the King of the Netherlands, HRH Willem-Alexander.

After nearly 150 km and 4 long days, the team were very happy to have completed the marches. 7 in the team were presented with their first Nijmegen medals and badges, with the remaining team members either qualifying for new medals or pins for their existing medals. The team were also awarded a team medal for completing the event without losing a team member.

Fg Off Victoria Docherty, 2nd in Command of the team and completing Nijmegen for the first time said “It was a great event. The team did really well, despite the heat and rain”

She continued “It was the first time for the lot of the team, but that didn’t appear to be a problem. The experience in the team helped us all through.”

dOFE PRACTICE ExPEDITIONBy Sgt Lewis Melia - 148 (Barnsley) Squadron

oN ThE weekend of the 30th April myself and several other cadets took part in D of E practice expeditions, the expedition took place in the Peak District.

While the weather was not entirely great all weekend, it did provide some comedy at various points of the expedition, consequently I spent more of the Sunday sitting down than I would have liked.

The route was challenging at times, overall we really had fun and enjoyed our nights under canvas. I hope that the actual expedition goes as well as the practice did.

CASTLEFORd AIR CAdETS mEmORIAL AT SELbyBy CI Gemma De-Lucchi

oN ThE morning of 21st May the cadets and staff of 2388 (Castleford) Squadron helped support the veterans and paid

their respects for the 219 who gave their lives in Bomber Command in the Second World War, at the annual memorial service for 578 Squadron at Selby Abbey.

The cadets provided a guard of honour at Selby Abbey when the Veterans entered. Following this they attended Selby cemetery to provide another guard of honour, and three wreaths were laid in honour of those who died.


MIRFIELd AIR CAdETS CELEBRATE THE SUCCESSES OF 2016iN JulY Mirfield Squadron held their annual Open Day and Presentation Parade to celebrate the achievements of members during the first half of the year, and it was a very busy day with 120 certificates to be presented to 55 cadets, in addition to annual trophies.

Parents and friends were invited to support the cadets and were joined on the occasion by Brigadier David Hargreaves, Chairman of the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Yorkshire and the Humber, Councillor Sean Guy, Mayor of Mirfield and Squadron President

Stan Hardy, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire. Brigadier Hargreaves and the Mayor together inspected the cadets on parade presented the various awards.

Certificates were presented covering a range of activities and achievements, including BTEC Awards for Aviation Studies and Teamwork and Personal Development, First Aid, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, with a whopping 3 Bronze, 9 Silver and 2 Gold, Flying and Sports.

Trophies for individual achievements went to Jonathan

NATIONAL mARCHING bAND AT RAF FAIRFORd ANd RAF HALTONBy CWO Heather Williams

oN ThE 7th of July, I went down to RAF Halton for preparation for a performance with the ACO National Marching Band at RAF Fairford for the 75th parade in the presence of the commandant.

We arrived and had a practice on the Thursday evening to lay out how the parade will be, before returning to the block for uniform preparation. The parade included a march past by around 700 cadets from around the country.

The parade was great

and was good to see so many cadets on parade! We then returned to Halton for some of us to prepare for another performance at DFSC Welbeck for the Senior Entry’s graduation parade on the Saturday.

The weekend was great, with excellent performances and was lovely to perform amongst fantastic musicians and cadets. Thank you for a wonderful weekend and I look forward to performing with you all again!

EdWARd WALSH STRIkES GOLD WITH A SPECIAL INVITATION TO bUCkINGHAm PALACEBy Cdt FS Edward Walsh

oN 16Th MAY, Edward Walsh from 2460 (Pontefract) Squadron was one of 1,000 young people from across the UK invited to celebrate the Diamond Anniversary of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) and attend a very special, once in a life time, Gold Award Presentation at Buckingham Palace, London.

Edward received his Gold DofE Award from DofE celebrity supporter Colonel Chris Hadfield and had the opportunity to share his DofE experiences with Patron of the DofE Charity HRH The Duke of Edinburgh / Trustee of the DofE Charity.

The DofE is celebrating its Diamond Anniversary throughout 2016, having supported millions of young people in the UK and across the globe to achieve DofE Awards since it was founded in 1956. The prestigious Gold Award Presentation at Buckingham Palace is one of many memorable events taking place to celebrate 60 years of the Charity.

Members of the Royal Family; HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, HRH The Earl of Wessex and HRH The Countess of Wessex, congratulated those that were present including young Gold Award achievers, organisations that deliver the

DofE and special guests such as corporate supporters and DofE Diamond Challengers, who have set themselves a personal challenge to raise money for the DofE Charity in its anniversary year.

Edward attended Pontefract Air Cadets and achieved his Gold DofE Award there. He worked determinedly through five sections of his DofE programme for over a year to achieve his Gold Award. His diverse selection of activities included; working as an award leader, swimming and building scale models as well as taking part in a week-long residential at Patterdale Youth Hostel in the Lake District and a demanding expedition in the Yorkshire Dales.

Widely acknowledged as the world’s leading achievement award for young people between the ages of 14-24, the DofE develops vital skills for life and for work, such as confidence, commitment, resilience and team work.

Speaking about his experience of the DofE, and the excitement of being part of the Buckingham Palace event, Edward said: “The day was a brilliant experience and will be something that I will remember for the rest of my life. Completing all three levels of the Duke of Edinburgh’s award had been a highly rewarding and enjoyable experience!”

Peter Westgarth, Chief Executive of the DofE Charity said: “What these young Gold Award holders have achieved is extraordinary. For a significant period of time they have given back to their communities, broadened their interests and equipped themselves with the attributes and skills that will open doors to opportunity and enable them to make the most of their lives. Our Diamond

Anniversary has provided a great

Royal occasion to celebrate their

accomplishments and we wish them

every success for the future.”

Currently, there are over 300,000 young people doing a DofE programme across the UK through a variety of centres including both state and independent schools, special schools, businesses, prisons, young offender institutions, housing associations and youth groups.

To celebrate its 60th year, the Charity has launched the DofE Diamond Challenge. This one-off initiative allows people of all ages to take on a DofE inspired challenge

Barrett, Best Recruit, Matthew Jagger, Best Cadet, Matthew Smith, Best NCO, Gabriele Kvederaite, Esprit de Corps and Leah Silvester, Outstanding Long-term Achievement, in addition to several promotions. WO (ATC) Michelle Alford was also presented with a Bar to her Cadet Forces Medal, recognising 18 years of uniformed service to the Air Cadet Organisation. After the presentation, cadets gave displays of Continuity Drill, Band Performance and First Aid, and the day was rounded off with a barbecue lunch.

Brigadier Hargreaves later commented: “What a joy and pleasure to join you together with the Mayor of Mirfield and Deputy Lieutenant for today’s Squadron Open Day and Presentation Parade.

It was an absolute delight from start to finish, with the cadets brimming with enthusiasm and a real sense of self-worth. They can be justifiably proud of all they have achieved collectively and individually over the past six months. What an amazing collection of awards, certificates and promotions.”

Reflecting on the day, Flt Lt Doubell, Officer Commanding 868 Squadron, said “this has been a tremendous success and it was wonderful to acknowledge the individual successes of so many young people who have worked and continue to work to develop themselves and to make a difference. I am extremely proud of my association with the Squadron and the achievements of 2016, and we are only half-way through the year!”

and earn their Diamond Pin. Signing up to The DofE Diamond Challenge has an amazing double benefit – whilst challenging yourself, pushing your boundaries, you’re also raising money for the DofE Charity so that it can transform the lives of more young people and offer free places and bursary grants to those most in need.

Visit www.DofE.org for more information about the DofE, and to find out how you can support the Charity in its Diamond Anniversary year, go to www.DofEDiamondChallenge.org.


Central & east yorkshire wing20 AIR TRAINING CORpS

RAYWELL mULTI-ACTIVITy WEEkEND SUCCESSThE MAY Bank Holiday weekend saw 31 cadets from 152 (City of Hull), 873 (Driffield) and 1324 (Hawker Blackburn) participate in an action packed multi-activity weekend based at Raywell Park in East Yorkshire.

On the Saturday cadets visited Welton Waters Activity Centre for a full day of water based sports and activities including sailing, canoeing, paddle boarding and raft building. The raft building seemed the most popular as cadets battled to keep their rafts afloat giving the onlooking staff plenty of opportunities for photographs and video footage. The finale of the day was a jetty jump, with cadets attempting to make the best / most ridiculous pose as they hurtled towards the water.

Sunday saw cadets split into three teams and undertake air rifle shooting, a treasure hunt and leadership tasks. The ‘Legend of the Gummi Bears’ treasure hunt had

cadets answering riddles and then searching for codes and keys in order to unlock the ultimate prize; Haribo Golden Bears. Whilst over on the air rifle range cadets were given expert instruction and the chance to test their marksmanship.

The Leadership activities ranged from mental tasks to confidence builders and more complex command tasks. One particularly popular exercise saw the cadet NCO’s blindfolded or made prisoners leaving the remaining cadets to try and solve the problem in front of them and guide their team to a conclusion.

The final main activity of the weekend was carried out on Monday morning and saw the cadets participate in a large pioneering exercise. With CI Thrower in charge the cadets were given a scenario and then tasked with building a zip line, bridge and shelter from

the equipment provided. Various problems and issues were then thrown into the mix; rogue spies, injured parties and an ever closing deadline. The results of the cadet’s endeavours were fantastic with a completed zip line transporting supplies to fortify a bridge and well-structured shelter.

All of these activities were interspersed with a wide variety of games and other activities giving cadets no chance to get bored or miss home, which became apparent when mobile phones remained unclaimed during free time.

The final night’s evening activity saw cadets transformed into an earthquake rescue team tasked with finding a missing baby in an unstable building. Participating cadets were issued a blindfold and helmet before being given the scenario and led into a pitch black room littered with objects. Playing distracting noises, including a baby crying, staff watched as cadets worked together as a team to guide themselves through the chaos, locate the baby and exit the room.

This activity was well received by all especially when the staff

volunteered to have a go. Kitted up Plt Off Cooper, FS Reynolds, CI Knights & CI Thompson entered the room. However, all was not quite as it seemed as the remaining members of staff moved the baby around the room and even threw in the obstacle of a pregnant man in need of rescue ‘CI Cooper’, much to the cadets’ amusement.

For the staff involved the weekend was always going to be hard work, the wide range of activities and fantastic freshly cooked food, including a roast dinner with all the trimmings meant the chance to sit down was slim but to see so many cadets have a thoroughly good time makes all the effort in planning and preparation before and during the weekend makes it all worth it.

152 (City of Hull) Sqn hope to make such an activity weekend an annual event with planning already beginning for 2017.

AiR CoMMoDoRE Dawn McCafferty, the Commandant and head of the Air Cadets has completed a sponsored Wing Walk to raise funds for a Trust, to be set up as part of the ATC 75th Anniversary. The walk was completed on Saturday 14th May at at Breighton Airfield, not far from York. Commandant Air Cadets explained more: “Many of you will be aware that, as part of ATC75, we are hoping to establish a Trust to support cadet and junior adult staff who need financial support whilst transitioning to full-time careers, via tertiary education or apprenticeships. I decided to do the sponsored Wing Walk to try and raise some seed corn funding. I am doing it as part of the DofE Jubilee Challenge, and half of the proceeds will therefore go to supporting DofE activity in the Air Cadet Organisation (ACO). The idea for a Wing Walk was not mine - I hate heights! But cadets and staff on my Facebook site voted for this as my

Challenge, so I conquered my fears and lived up to the ATC motto Venture Adventure! If every squadron could donate 10 pounds it would raise almost £10k, all of which would go towards Air Cadets except for the small admin fee for the site. I was flown by one of our own Volunteer Gliding Squadron instructors, Squadron Leader Simon Johnson and his company have kindly waived the fee for me to put all proceeds to the ACO. Some squadrons have already donated as I have advertised on social media, for which my thanks. It is, of course, purely voluntary.

AIR CAdET COMMANdANT GOES ‘WING WALkING’ IN NORTH YORkSHIRE

Pictures by Flt Sgt Colin Bell. Air Cadet Photographer (North).

Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty with her pilot Squadron Leader Simon Johnson.

The Commandant on top of the aircraft wing with cadets and staff supporters who travelled to see her on the day


SpORTS ROUNd UpCENTRAl & EAST Yorkshire Wing ended the team sport season on a high recently - with a further two gold medals and a silver to add to their collection. The final team sports to be competed were the Senior Football and Hockey, and the Junior Rugby and Netball. Despite some very stiff competition from the other wings - the teams rallied together with the Football

and Hockey coming away with gold (indeed the Hockey got a very impressive 15-0 goal ratio - not letting a single one in!). The Rugby squad tried valiantly but struggled to place against strong opposition. The girls finished the season by getting silver, narrowly missing out to a strong team from South & West Yorkshire Wing.

As usual, there are some very strong selections for the regional trials from our wing - with a record number of cadets going on to represent the region and corps in the various sports.

2431 (kEIGHLEy) SQUADRON

By Flying Officer Jordan W Cameron

bEST SquADRoN in The Wing Scoops First Place at Wing Athletics! 2431 (Keighley) Squadron The 2016 Lees Trophy Nominees for Central & East Yorkshire Wing, came 1st in Wing Athletics on Sunday 15th May. The event is held annually at the Costello Stadium in Hull and this year attracted over 400 cadets from across the wing. Over 25 cadets attended from 2431 (Keighley) squadron and they picked up various individual medals in addition to the prestigious winning shield. Flg Off Jordan Cameron commented, “The cadets were determined to do well this year to improve on their fruitful efforts throughout the last year. We had a great turnout and it was a superb team effort. The staff team are exceptionally proud and the cadets continue to be a credit to the squadron and the Organisation.”

NOT ONLY TOp SqUAdRON IN THE WING BUT NOW WINNERS OF THE WING ATHLETICS COMpETITION

2431 Sqn Cadets receive the shield from Wing Commander Steve Wiggins

Fg Off Jordan Cameron and CI Tracy King with the shield

CAdETS TAkE pART IN kNARESbOROUGH bED RACEBy Civilian Instructor Amy Griffiths

EvERY JuNE in the historic medieval town of Knaresborough, an unusual sporting event takes place which attracts visitors and competitors from across the country and abroad. The Great Knaresborough Bed Race requires teams of runners to dress up a “bed” as part of an overall theme, of which this years was cities across the globe. The spectacularly decorated beds are paraded through the town past tens of thousands of spectators. After this, the decorations are stripped off the frames and the competitors get ready to run. The race requires the teams to run with the bare frames whilst carrying a child. The course is a hilly 1.5 miles with difficult terrains and a river crossing. It is a huge event within the community

and 1953 Knaresborough Squadron always play a big part.

Corporal Fizz Hunter and Cadet James Firth were given the honour to carry the banner for the best dressed bed, leading the parade of over ninety teams and their floats. At the other end of the parade many cadets from the squadron were responsible for closing the procession. A small team of 1953 cadets also ran a refreshments stall inside the castle grounds, making sure competitors were well hydrated and fuelled. Staff at 1953 Squadron would like to thank all cadets that came along to help out at the event, representing the Air Training Corps as a whole. As always your involvement within the community is well recognised and appreciated.

vICTIMS OF LANCASTER CRASH REMEMBEREd 70 yEARS ONBy David Thompson

1224 (Wharfedale) Squadron have organised and unveiled a memorial to a Lancaster Bomber which crashed just after World War 2 on Beamsley Beacon near Ilkley. The aircraft, RA571 of 429 (Bison) Squadron crashed on 5th November 1945 whilst on a navigation exercise. Weather had deteriorated during the flight and the navigator was unable to obtain any assistance using radio aids, consequently whilst flying at 1700 feet in cloud it hit Beamsley Beacon about 50 feet from the top. Four of the all Canadian crew were killed including the pilot, Flying Officer W F Conley. Another four crew survived despite serious

injuries. Sadly, the crew were due to fly home to Canada just a week or so later. The memorial plaque, affixed to a triangulation marker, was organised by the CO and cadets of the squadron and unveiled by the Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutenant Wayne Yeadon and Warrant Officer David Wood in company with their padre. Two cadets, Joshua Abbey and Ryan Thatcher laid a wreath provided by the Canadian Government. The staff, cadets and some parents had hiked up the hill for the service. Members of 1224 Squadron are shown in the picture along with Ken Cothliff (Right) representing 6 (RCAF) Group.

NEW STATION COmmANDER’S CADET AT RAF LINTON ON OUSECADET FlighT Sergeant Susie Firth of 1953 (Knaresborough) Sqn has been selected by Group Captain Iain Laing, the Station Commander at RAF Linton on Ouse as his Station Commander’s Cadet for 2016. Susie, who is 17 years of

age, has been an Air Cadet at Knaresborough since August 2012. Since joining the Air Training Corps, Susie has participated in a vast array of activities, including air experience flying in a Grob Tutor. Her commitment and dedication to flying is second to

none, as primarily due to adverse weather conditions she managed to achieve her first flight on the 13th attempt. She has attended annual camps with a favourite being the Shooting and Field craft camp at the Altcar Training Area near Southport. She has also taken a lead role in RAFA and Remembrance day parades. Susie is a keen musician, playing the clarinet and has performed at several prestigious wing and regional

events over the past year. Susie alsorepresented the Wing on the NewHampshire Exchange visit witha cadet unit in the USA in July.


CONGRATULATIONS TO AWO dAvId WOOd ON RECEIvING AN AOC 22 GROUp COMMENdATION IN THE qUEENS 2016 HONOURS LIST.By Squadron Leader Brian Mennell

ADulT WARRANT Officer David Wood of 1224 (Wharfedale) Squadron (on the right outside 10 Downing Street on a recent visit) has been awarded an Air Officer Commanding (AOC) 22 Group Commendation in this year’s Queens Birthday Honours List. The award, immediately below a State Award, is not given either lightly or very often and David has been awarded it for his long and dedicated service,

for his squadron and community activities, for raising a very talented squadron band and in particular for his annual fund raising activities for service charities. David and the squadron have regularly won national trophies for this collecting. A good example is the £108,000 raised for the Royal Air Forces Association Wings Appeal since 1996. Congratulations David. A well deserved award.

OF THE dEATH OF CAdET LANEBy Squadron Leader Brian Mennell

AT 8PM on Tuesday 26 July 2016 a group of staff and cadets from 110 (City of York) Squadron paraded at the graveside of Cadet Anthony Lane in York Cemetery to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of his death in an aircraft accident whilst flying as a cadet.

On 26 July 1946 Cadet Lane from 110 (City of York) Squadron and Cadet Arthur Hall from nearby 116 (Archbishop Holgate Grammar School) Squadron were passengers in a Wellington bomber from the Central Gunnery School at RAF Leconfield which was taking part in a ‘Fighter Affiliation’ exercise with a Spitfire when they both collided head on during a dummy attack. The aircraft fell to the

ground in flames at Appleton-le-Moors near Kirbymoorside. All the occupants were killed and several civilians on the ground had narrow escapes. Whilst Cadet Lane was buried at York Cemetery, Cadet Hall was cremated in Leeds.

The cadets paraded with the Squadron Banner and were led by Flying Officer Joe Harrington who laid a wreath. Each of the cadets then placed a ‘Poppy Cross’ on the grave before smartly saluting. The ceremony was led by Reverend Peter Teal assisted by Committee Member Mr Fred Ullathorne. The Last Post was played on the trumpet by Mr Colin Carr, who was the founder member of York Squadron’s Band many years ago and a lament on the pipes was

Cadets and staff line up around the graveside at the start of the ceremony

Flying Officer Joe Carrington lays the wreath on the grave

played by Pipe Major Jim Sharpe. This was a simple but

very poignant ceremony as darkness fell in the wooded

70TH ANNIVERSARyWHARFEdALE AIR CAdET COMpLETE GRUELLING dUTCH MARCHAN ilklEY Air Cadet has completed the challenging Nijmegen Marches in Holland.

Cadet Sergeant Ryan Griffin took part in the event, in which participants must walk 100 miles over four days through the Dutch countryside, as part of the Wing team, one of many military teams taking part from across the world!

The Nijmegen Marches is one of the most prestigious events that Air Cadets can take part in, marching alongside teams from countries as far away as Canada, the USA and even Australia!

This year was made even more special by the fact that the event was celebrating its 100th Anniversary.

On completing the marches, and being awarded his medal for completing the event for a second time, Sgt Griffin said it was “The hardest challenge I’ve had in cadets to date but the greatest part is the crowds there to cheer you on”.

cemetery allowing the squadron to remember their fellow member killed ‘In the line of Duty’ so many years ago.


26 ARmy CADETS YORkSHIRE NORTH & WEST

THE LEEdS pALS THE SOmmE 100By Lt Ian Major

oN SuNDAY 3 July 2016, members of the county attended the annual memorial of the Leeds Pals at Colsterdale, near Masham, to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the bloodiest Battle of WWI in which the Leeds Pals paid a significant price. The patriotism shown by the people of Leeds at the outbreak of war with Germany was reflected in the city council’s approach to, and involvement in the raising of the 1st Leeds Battalion.

After a rousing send off at Leeds City station where it was estimated that crowds of 20,000 gathered, the rail journey to Masham was followed by a brisk 5 to 6 mile march to Breary Bank, their baggage and personal goods were sent via the light railway which had been built in 1901 to service the nearby Roundhill Reservoir. The Battalion arrived at Colsterdale on the Yorkshire Dales on 25 September 1914.

The time spent at Colsterdale was for most, the best time of their lives. Carefree days with good food, good accommodation and good company, their civilian skills were soon being put to military use. When material started arriving for the construction

of more solid accommodation, recruits with the necessary backgrounds were employed on hut building, men with country backgrounds were soon catching the rabbits that were so abundant around Colsterdale enabling the battalion cooks to serve up regular meals of rabbit stew, so regular that one “Pal”, Walter Astle, on returning home after the war refused to eat rabbit for the rest of his life.

On 1 March 1916 the pals set sail for Marseilles as the Battle of the Somme became imminent. The battle was to prove tragic for the ‘Leeds Pals’. Twenty-four Pal’s officers went over the top with their men on that fateful day, 1 July 1916. Lt Major Booth, the famous cricketer, and Evelyn Lintott, the footballer were just two of the many that were killed in action, and approximately 750 out of 900 involved in the Somme died.

To commemorate the centenary of the Battle and to remember the 750 ‘Leeds Pals’, the Lord Mayor of Leeds, the High Sheriff of West Yorkshire and other civic dignitaries and members of the public attended a wreath laying service held by The Rt Hon Cannon Sam Corley.

Cadets from A Company with the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Mr Gerry Harper, and the Mayor of Morley, Mr Bob Gettins, in front of the ‘Leeds Pals’ Memorial, Colsterdale.

YORkSHIRE CAdET TRUST dONATIONBy Lt Ian Major

ThE YoRkShiRE Cadet Trust is a registered charity which was established to give financial support to the cadets of all three Services within Yorkshire and The Humber.

Without the help that the Trust provides, a number of cadets would never be able to take part in the wide variety of experiences that being a cadet can bring. The aim of the trust is to ensure that any cadet regardless of their background has the chance to take part in the opportunities that are available through the Cadet Forces. The Trustees are particularly keen to support those cadets that, for whatever reason, come from a deprived or less fortunate background than their peers.

E (The RIFLES) Company have raised £600 through Bag

Packs, fundraising at gala’s, in addition to individual Detachment Donations for the Yorkshire Cadet Trust. Major Neil Patton, Officer Commanding E (The RIFLES) Company said, “The reason why we, as a Company decided to raise these funds was because cadets from our Company have directly benefitted from the Yorkshire Cadet Trust and we felt we needed to give something back. If we all kept taking, and not giving, then the Trust would soon run dry and it would be the cadets that suffer. We wanted to lead from the front and decided to organise sufficient fund raising activity to support this donation. I would also like to put the challenge out to other Companies and Cadet Forces to see what they can do for this worthwhile charity”.

Maj Patton presenting a cheque for £600 to the Commandant, and Trustee, Colonel Malcolm Render

E COMpANY’S NEWLY AppOINTEd SSIJulY 2016 saw the promotion of PAI Mandy Knighton to the rank of SSI.

SSI Knighton who has only been in the ACF since October 2015 comes to the county with a wealth of military experience, having spent 24 years in the Regular Army, serving with the Royal Army Medical Corps and more recently the last 12 months with the Army Reserves at 212 Field Hospital, Leeds.

SSI Knighton has vast experience when it comes to first

aid and this has seen her appointed as E Company First Aid Officer, and in addition, has more recently been appointed as Detachment Commander of Mirfield. When speaking with SSI Knighton on receiving her promotion she was asked how it feels.

“I feel absolutely wonderful and honoured to be part of such an amazing organisation and I hope that the experiences that I have gained in the Army can be passed on to the cadets who I will be coming into contact with.”

SSI Mandy Knighton and Commandant, Colonel Malcom Render MBE

CERTIFICATE OF AppRECIATIONThE CERTiFiCATE of Appreciation is awarded by The Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association to Cadet Force Adult Volunteers who have given 6 years’ continual service to the Cadet Forces.

During the County Presentation weekend, two adults received this well-deserved award, AUO

Ashleigh Craig and 2Lt Rob Sinclair who, after successful cadet careers decided to go full circle and join as adults, and they are enjoying every minute.

When asked about how they felt about being awarded they both replied “Gob smacked, you don’t do it for the awards and honours; you do it for the good of

AUO Ashleigh Craig and 2Lt Rob Sinclair

Lt Kev Uttley, Brigadier David Hargreaves and SI David Pollard

the cadets because that’s why we joined. This award is recognition for the hard work and commitment that you put in and we feel honoured to be receiving it”.

In addition, during the Annual Camp, and on Visitors Day, two more adults received this award from Brigadier David Hargreaves, Chairman, Yorkshire and the Humber RFCA. SI David Pollard who has served for 6 ½ Years and is currently the Company Quarter Master for C Company, said “I’m pleasantly surprised to get this,

when you join the cadets, you join not for the rank or the pay... you do it for the cadets. To be recognised for what you do is great honour”.

Lt Kevin Uttley, the County Adventure Training Officer has served for 7 years. He said about his award; “Being an adult instructor is not about personal gain, it’s about giving the cadets the best opportunity to achieve their potential in the short space of time that they have within the ACF. Moments like these reassure you that you are doing the right thing for the right reasons”.


TWo oFFiCERS from the county have received formal recognition for their service to the Cadet Forces. The Cadet Force Medal is award to those Cadet Force Adult Volunteers who have completed 12 years’ continuous service to the Cadet Force. During the County Presentation weekend, two officers received this well-earned medal from the Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, Mr Michael Fox DL.

Lt Stuart McNab who lives in Basel, Switzerland is a Biotec Scientist in his day job and is currently the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Officer for C Company. He travels from Switzerland to Strensall regularly to attend camps, testament to the level of commitment he has for the cadets of C Company. Lt Paul Mathers who lives in Scarborough and works for the Royal Mail, is currently the Admin Officer for A

Brigadier Gez Strickland DSO MBE and RSM Mel Dawkins

FROM SWITzERLANd TO STRENSALL

REGIONAL COMMANd RECOGNITION FOR FORMER RSMThE CERTiFiCATE of Commendation is awarded by The General Officer Commanding Regional Command to any Cadet Force Adult Volunteer for outstanding service to the Army Cadet Force. RSM Mel Dawkins, who has recently retired from the Army Cadet Force after completing almost 20 years dedicated service as an adult volunteer, served with tremendous energy and commitment in every position from Sergeant Instructor up to Detachment Commander and Company Sergeant Major, qualities which earned him a well-deserved appointment to County RSM in 2010.

A model RSM, he led by example and from the front where he relied on his strength of character to manage people and events in the most demanding of situations. He is renowned for his common sense

and pragmatic approach to matters of discipline and other problems, using his experience and good judgement to provide solutions. A man of great integrity and quiet fortitude during his time as County RSM he has continually provided invaluable advice and feedback to Senior Officers within the County.

He has completed six Annual Camps as County RSM and on every occasion, he has been a tower of strength, working tirelessly to ensure that all aspects of security, discipline and a wide array of other aspects were fully covered. However, without doubt, it is a concern for the cadet and adult welfare that drives him the most and his thoughtful provision of duty rotas, compassion arrangements and recreational facilities are where he has had the most impact. The success and enjoyment of these Annual

Camps, which are important cadet events, own much to the significance of his personal endeavour.

RSM Dawkins is a truly inspirational County RSM who has made a huge positive impact to the wellbeing and morale of the county. Despite a busy working life, his contribution is immense, involving countless hours of his limited free time, often under the most difficult of personal circumstances. He has rightly earned the admiration and appreciation of all who have had the privilege of working

with him during his service.RSM Dawkins said on receiving

the award, “It is a great honour to be chosen and I am humbled to receive such a prestigious award. It goes without saying the support of the adult volunteers, the cadets and all the extra support that goes with running such a large county has made my term a lot smoother than it could have been and my warm thanks go to them for the full support I received.” The award was presented by Commander 4 Infantry Brigade, Brigadier Gez Strickland DSO MBE.

Lt Stuart McNab and Lt Paul Mathers

18 YEARS’ SERvICE ANd STILL GOING STRONGSMi ANiTA Coe has been awarded her 1st Clasp to the Cadet Force Medal, the clasp which is awarded to any Adult Volunteer who has completed a continual additional 6 years’ service to the Cadet Force, and has so far completed 18 years’ service. She has seen the ACF change and develop for the better in order to provide the youth of today with the skills they need in life. SMI Coe, the Admin Officer for B Company said “The Cadet Force Medal

Colonel Malcolm Render MBE and SMI Anita Coe

is a great honour to receive in the first place, the addition of the Clasp to my medal, once again is recognition for all the hard work, volunteering and dedication that is put into the ACF. I am very proud of the service that I have given to Yorkshire North and West ACF, to see and be part of what all our cadets are achieving, the way they are making new friends, and the smiles on their face when they have achieved a goal. That what makes it all worthwhile”.

THE PETER mARTIN AWARd17Th JulY 2016 saw the presentation of the Peter Martin Award, the award which is presented in memory of Colonel Peter Martin, who passed away

whilst serving as Commandant. The award, which is presented annually, is in recognition of the adult instructor or officer who is deemed to have continually demonstrated the true ethos in their duties when dealing with cadets over a protracted period of time.

This years’ recipient was SSI Arthur Joy of Catterick Detachment, A Company. SSI Joy continually strives to ensure that the cadets are pushed to achieve the very best they can and always goes above and beyond what is required. The Chief Executive of RFCA for Yorkshire and the Humber, Colonel (Retd) Jason Wright, presented SSI Joy with the Award which is a silver bugle and is displayed for all to see in the Trophy Cabinet at CTC Strensall, together with a silver claret jug which is presented as a personal award to keep.

SSI Joy said ‘I’m lost for words, it’s a great honour and privilege to be even considered for such an award’.

GET dOWN ANd dIRTYTOUGH mUDDER STyLEoN SuNDAY 7th August 2016, while most people were at home having a nice quiet, sunny day in the garden, SI Donna Hawley from E (The RIFLES) Company, was getting down and dirty as a competitor in the Tough Mudder Challenge raising funds for the charity CRY. SI Hawley and members of her family decided to take part in this challenge because of a tragic event that happened earlier this year. In January 2016 SI Hawley’s Niece’s fiancé had gone to work as normal and whilst at work collapsed and died at the young age of 23. The two shared a house together and were in the

process of planning their wedding for next year when Craig died as a result of Adult Death Syndrome.

In memory of Craig, SI Hawley’s Niece, Emma, decided to do something in his memory and Tough Mudder was the challenge that they were looking for. When Emma had asked SI Hawley, she wasn’t so keen at first but, after some consideration, threw caution to the wind and decided to do it. SI Hawley said: “I did a lot of the running in the rain, sometimes the sun as well, I was like ‘I don’t have the energy or oomph to do it, but I knew I was doing this for Craig. I decided to do a sponsor page on virgin and the rest of the family took their sponsor sheets to friends and family”.

The actual challenge itself was buzzing, but SI Hawley was a bit apprehensive because she didn’t know what to expect. As part of a team of 13 with crisp, clean, white ‘CRY’ t-shirts they were all ready for the off which was due at 12.15. The first obstacle that the team had to

face was the Ice Bath... the obstacle that as soon as you hit the water snatched away your breath, this then led on to the monkey bars... however, being vertically challenged; she couldn’t even reach them, which some team mates had found amusing.

Asked what her favourite obstacles were and with a quick reply, she replied; the 7 hills of Mud and Water, the two walls and the electroshock therapy. The mud mile was funny as soon as you got onto one hill you slid into the water and then try and get up the other hill, there was a lot of team work not just from our team but from other people as well. The wall was what I was looking forward to all day; it was the second to last obstacle, I kept running up the wall and touching people’s hands and just skidding down but I wasn’t giving in. On my 5th attempt I gritted my teeth and went for it, and managed to scrabble over with the support of the other team members.

As the team came to ‘Shock

Therapy’ which was the last obstacle, I had a massive smile on my face and was feeling so proud of myself that I had got through it... as the last obstacle came into view I just went for it and ran, I got two lots of shocks and then at the end had a slide in the mud followed by team hugs.

SI Hawley has already booked to do the challenge again next year, but in aid of the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF). Despite the cuts and bruises it’s the best feeling ever when you finish Tough Mudder, so roll on next year.

Company after serving a number of years as a Detachment Commander.


TImE TO SHINE FOR YORkSHIREAS ThE sun was shining down on the Cadet Training Centre at Queen Elizabeth Barracks, members of the county were preparing for their Annual County Presentation Day. The aim and purpose of the presentation is to show what the ACF can offer the youth of today and the skills and values on offer to them.

As the civic and distinguished guests arrived they were played in by the Minden Bugles and Drums as they were received by the Commandant, Colonel Malcom Render MBE. We had the pleasure of playing host to the Brigade Commander of the 4th Infantry Brigade, Deputy Lord Lieutenants of North and West Yorkshire, The High Sheriff of West Yorkshire along with the Lord Mayor and Mayors of Bradford, Morley, Selby, Northallerton, Mirfield, Wakefield, Huddersfield, and Harrogate.

During the presentation of awards, RSM Mel Dawkins was presented with a Regional Command Recognition certificate and AUO Ashley Craig, together with 2nd Lt Rob Sinclair were presented with

Letters of Appreciation, and their stories are featured separately.

Following the presentations, the guests were then shown around a number of displays which were delivered by both cadets and adults on a range of activities that cadets can undertake, from participation of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, International Exchanges such as those to the Cadet Summer Training Camp at Camp Argonaut in Canada, Skill at Arms and Shooting, Fieldcraft and Navigation to name but a few.

Shortly after lunch the guests

Sgt Rachel Wood and the Mayor of Mirfield

By Lt Ian Major Colour Sergeant Kalum Davey, Cadet of the Year, and Brigadier Gez Strickland

The Musicians with Brigadier Strickland

were treated to a display by the Minden Bugles and Drums, together with the Corps of Drums; who were also supported by the Bugles and Drums from Humberside and South Yorkshire ACF, which was followed by the presentation of the Cadet of the Year award made by Brigadier Strickland.

TIbUA TRAINING... A NATIONAL dIRECTIvEBy Lt Ian Major

DuRiNg ANNuAl Camp 2016, Merlin Cadre, which is the Cadre for the Senior cadet of the county were given a treat this year following direction from Regional Command that the Cadet Training Teams (CTTs) were authorised to run a TIBUA Instructors course which then allowed adult instructors to plan and conduct training with senior cadets of the county within an urban environment.

All Cadets must be over the age of 16 and have passed 3 star fieldcraft, hence why it is solely a 4 star subject. The idea behind the cadets doing TIBUA is for the cadet experience and it is an ideal tool to test leadership, command, control, physical ability and ultimately that it is all conducted within the Safe System of Training.

In March 2016, WO2 Martin Field, along with the 4 Brigade CTT trained 50 adults from across the Brigade area which then subsequently

qualified them to run this training themselves for their county without the direct intervention from the CTT, but still with guidance and over watch from the CTT and the Training Safety Advisors.

The county had the privilege to be the first county to conduct TIBUA training without instructional help from the CTT, Regular or Army Reserve units. Yorkshire ACF then

went away with 30 Cadets and 7 adults for 3 days and modelled their Merlin course on the CTT course with periods of instruction in subjects such as principles and fundamentals of operating in an urban environment, Urban Patrolling, building entry drills, room clearance drills, clearing stairs and corridors, and defence in built up areas.

This instructional phase then led into a practical phase where the skills and drills taught were put into practice using walk through talk-through both dry and blank. The TIBUA package then culminated in a cadet led blank firing

attack with the cadets fulfilling the command appointments.

There is an aspiration to run another TIBUA Instructors course in March 17 and then the courses will be conducted every 2 years.

The Commandant, Colonel Malcolm Render MBE said “I was extremely impressed by the level of proficiency and professionalism displayed by both staff and cadets in the planning and execution of this most difficult of all infantry skills. Particular thanks are due to our TSA WO2 Martin Field for his expertise and zeal in the running of the Brigade course, the event has clearly

Merlin cadets as they undertake a walk-talk through of a breech entry

Merlin Training Cadre after completing the final house clearing exercise with Colonel Malcom Render RSM Austin Butler

WO2 Martin Field delivers the theory training before the Merlin cadets undertake the practical element of TIBUA Training


vISITORS dAYoN 17Th AuguST 2016, whilst on their Annual Camp, the county played host to a selection of VIPs from the Deputy Brigade Commander of 4th Infantry Brigade, the Chairman and CEO of RFCA for Yorkshire and the Humber together with the Deputy Lieutenant for West Yorkshire amongst other dignitaries.

The day started off with a presentation by the Commandant, Colonel Malcolm Render who went on to discuss cadet and adult numbers, the sporting success of the county, overseas opportunities which have been taken up by cadets and the direction in which the county is heading. The visitors were then taken to meet the cadets during training and the first group to meet the visitors were the 2 Star Testing Cadre who were enjoying some quality

time on the ranges. This was also a prime opportunity for the Deputy Lieutenant for West Yorkshire to present Captain Rory Romani with a certificate for saving the life of Company Sergeant Major Terry Yates.

After a short period of time the guests were then taken to see the Signals Cadre who were carrying out a practical lesson on the Personal Issued Radio (PIRs). Colour Sergeant Kalum Davey from C Company was very confident when it came to giving Colonel Wood an overview of the PIR and the effectiveness of its use. It was after this overview that Colonel Butterwick, Deputy Brigade Commander took the opportunity to promote Colour Davey to the rank of Cadet Company Sergeant Major (CSM).

The guests were then taken

Colonel Mike Butterwick with Cadets Kian Opie and Charlie Grant from Fulford Detachment

LCpl Josh Newton from Pontefract Detachment, Col Jason Wright RFCA CEO, Brigadier David Hargreaves RFCA Chairman and LCpl Ted McCully from South Emsall Detachment

Colonel Duncan Hopkins, Vice Chairman RFCA and Cadet Emma Scaife from Harrogate Detachment

Deputy Lieutenant for West Yorkshire, Major Stan Hardy chats with Potential Instructor Luke Street from Harewood Detachment

to visit the Potential Adult Instructors (PAIs) current in the field as part of their Initial Instructors Cadre (IIC) who were in their final stages of their Adult training. PAI Cameron Tosh, from Towerhurst Detachment, said “It’s so different to being on this side of the fence, being a cadet is one thing but being an adult is so much different, its’ now down

to me to make sure they get as much out of the Cadets as I did”.

Finally, the Adventure Training (AT) package was an opportunity for the guest to see some of the non-military activities that the cadets can partake in and for many, it was the first time that they had a chance to take part in. The activities on offer were the Mobile Climbing Tower, Kayaking and Archery.

TRAINING OFFICER JUMpS IN TO SAvE THE CSM

FiRST AiD within the ACF is one of the most important life skills that any member can learn, knowing that at any time, any place the skills they learned could mean life or death. In October 2015, it was the turn of Captain Rory Romani, who only hours early had finished his First Aid refresher course.

Company Sergeant Major Terry Yates had just finished work at the Military Preparation Course at

Wakefield Reserve Centre when he was making something to eat before the evening training with the ACF when he accidently swallowed his false teeth. As Captain Romani was sat at his desk working he heard the CSM coughing, which he didn’t think anything of; it was only when the coughing became much more laboured that he realised that something was wrong. It was at that point he jumped into action and proceeded to administer first aid, the refresher training that he had just attended came to good use.

Captain Romani had immediately identified that the CSM was choking, and gave him 5 back blows which had no effect on removing the obstruction, at this point he remained calm and the proceeded to give him abdominal thrusts. It was on the 3rd thrust that the false denture

Company Captain Rory Romani and Major Stan Hardy TD DL

Captain Rory Romani and CSM Terry Yates

plate shot out of the CSM’s mouth.When speaking with the pair

about the event both laugh and joke about the whole situation, but they do not under estimate the seriousness of what could have been a very tragic event. CSM Yates had said ‘I didn’t really panic, I just tried to remain as calm as possible and was trying not to swallow because the plate was too far down to get out with my fingers. I’m very fortunate that Captain Romani was in the right place at the

right time, for which I’m eternally grateful and owe him my life’.

Captain Romani had said ‘I heard Terry coughing and when I noticed that he was becoming blue in the face and gasping I just went into auto mode and started with the back blows. I wasn’t panicking, it was only when this didn’t work that I started to panic, but after the 3rd thrust it shot out. The first thing that the CSM said to me was ‘Well done, you passed your practical’ which we both started laughing at’.

‘I WANT TO RIDE my bICyCLE’...‘i WANT to ride my bike’ as the song goes... a continual 24 hours on an exercise bike is what was on the cards for a number of Adult Volunteers and Officers while at Annual Camp at Wathgill; all in the name of raising funds for ‘Climbing Out’.

Climbing Out is a self-funding charity that runs 5-day outdoor activity programmes for young people aged 16-30 who have experienced life changing injury, illness or trauma and its aim is to rebuild confidence and self-esteem. The charity runs a number of programmes which are based in Youth Hostels in and around the Lake District. All activities are bespoke to the needs and capabilities of the individual.

Like many charities, Climbing

Out is continually looking for any donations to continue the valuable work that it carries out. The Climbing Out programmes have proved time and time again to act as a spring board to enable young people to start living life to the full post injury, illness or trauma. Captain Davey Averill, Cadet Administrative Assistant (CAA) for C Company has been involved with Climbing Out for a number of years through his son James who had benefitted from the help and support that the charity offers and has done a lot to raise money for this worthy cause. With the help from Captain Graham Wood, CAA E (The RIFLES) Company, the wheels were put in motion to raise some much need funds through a bike ride... with a little bit of help

from the other permanent staff from County HQ, together with many others, everyone got on

Captains Graham Wood and Davey Averill with CA Bev Craig doing their bit

board and did their part. After 24 hours and over 813 miles later a grand total of £600 was raised.


34 ARmy CADETS HUMBERSIdE & SOUTH YORkSHIRE

ANNUAL CAmP 2016SENNELAGER, GERMANYbETWEEN 30Th JulY – 12th August 2016, cadets from Humberside and South Yorkshire Army Cadet Force had the privilege to spend 2 weeks in Sennelager, Germany. Headquarters of 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade, the camp/training area would allow cadets to experience the highest standard of training, as well as being able to understand the culture and history of the German people; none of which would have been possible back in the UK! In the year leading up to the trip, cadets from all over the county pulled together to raise thousands of pounds in funding. Not only did this allow cadets to minimise costs, it kindled a sense of pride that the cadets had earned their place on the trip.

All cadets stayed in Normandy barracks, using 3 separate blocks all brought together by a rather large and very practical parade square. Col. Nigel Wilkinson’s enthusiasm during his first parade was infectious, and this was shown by cadets, DS and adults for the duration of the trip. All training was completed effectively, making the most of the area we were in! Aspects of the training area such as the TIBUA villages and open plains were perfect for field craft, not even taking into account the stunning views during the expedition! By no means did the distance covered limit our level of equipment either; the British Army were generous enough to lend us their SA80 rifles, allowing cadets to experience new weapon systems unable to be used at home.

However, being in a country with such a huge array of modern history, it was only fitting to visit

some key locations from World War II. This included Möhne Dam, Arnhem Bridge, the Airborne Museum and Wewelsburg Castle, all of which were important in their own way. By visiting such locations, cadets gained a much more detailed insight into some of the horrors of war, as well as being able to see the clothing, vehicles and weaponry of the period. On the contrary, non educational trips were also planned. All of the cadets were given time to explore Paderborn, a local city bustling with high street shops and cultural German food. Also, a visit

to Kletter Park, a treetop activity centre, was also incorporated into the trip, giving the cadets and adults alike a day off from their intensive training and allowing them to face a challenge they wouldn’t quite experience back in England.

As a whole, Annual Camp 2016 was a huge success. Colonel Wilkinson explained his ambition to plan the trip, as well as reiterating to level of planning and funding involved. On a personal note, I am delighted to say that it was worth the struggle! Each and every cadet thoroughly

enjoyed their time in Germany, and I am confident that in the years to come a similar visit will be organised! Although it is a shame that my leaving date is fast approaching, one consolidation is that hopefully I will be able to have similar experiences as an adult instructor in the future. On behalf of everyone in HSYACF, I would like to thank everyone involved in the planning of the trip, regardless of which side of the border you are on! As for the staff at the Headquarters in Sennelager, we hope to see you soon!

AT ThE END of May, cadets and staff from the county joined others from across 4th Infantry Brigade to take part in the annual Brigade Skill at Arms Target Rifle Meeting at Strensall. Officers, Instructors and Cadets travelled from the five Counties with each entering a number of teams all aspiring to take away their share of medals.

A Skill at Arms Meeting (SAAM) wouldn't be complete without a downpour of rain and this year was no exception. Shooters in waterproofs, laid in pools of water and draped in ponchos; spirits weren't dampened by the torrential rain and amazingly there were shots on target even from 300m and 500m. by Sunday the rain had cleared to leave a glorious day to end a fantastic weekend. SMI Darren Pettinger (Assistant

Shooting Officer) said "all our teams did really well considering the little or no practice we had received. A special big thank you goes out to all adults for the massive effort to make it happen, thank you'.

Cdt Sgt Kieran Lee (Barnsley) gained 1st Place in the Individual 300 Competition alongside Cdt Sgt Joseph Smith (Hornsea) who also received a 1st Place, in the Individual 500 Competition. Cdt Sgt Suraj Singh (Corps of Drums) earned a well-deserved 3rd Place in the Frankfort Individual Competition. The medals and wards were presented by the National Shooting Advisor, Colonel Neville Stebbings, formerly the Brigade Shooting Officer.

Many congratulations to Durham ACF the overall winners of Brigade SAAM target rifle shoot 2016.

BRIGAdE TARGET RIFLE SkILL AT ARMS MEETING oN MoNDAY 23rd May Grimsby Detachment engaged with

the Royal British Legion Youth Officer, Tom Grundy furthering our commitment to the Royal British Legion and how it supports service personnel, veterans and youth organisations. The Detachment received a special presentation for theircommitment and support for the Royal British Legion.

grimsby DetaChment Commitment anD support for the royal british legion

SERgEANT ShAuN McBride joined the ACF at Bridlington Detachment in 1997. Here he put down his roots and taught many cadets throughout his time (including myself). One of the very first things you are taught by Sgt McBride when joining Bridlington Detachment is that "we are more than just a unit or a team, we are a FAMILY and we look after our own." Sgt McBride has guided, supported and inspired all who have worked with him whether they are cadets or adults.

Sgt McBride has decided to 'Hang his boots up' when the detachment is at the top of its game and he leaves us knowing he played a part in getting us there. He will be leaving a huge hole as he leaves this tight knit family we call Bridlington Detachment. After 19 years of dedicated service to Bridlington Detachment we presented him with an engraved tankard as a little thank you for all he has done!

We wish Sgt Shaun McBride and his family all the very best for each and every one of your future endeavours.

the enD of an era FOR BRIdLINGTON dETACHMENTBy Staff Sergeant Zara Thorpe.


oN SATuRDAY 21ST MAY, cadets and adults from Driffield Parachute Detachment attended an insight day held at Thornbury Barracks, home of 4th Bn The Parachute Regiment. The event was organised and run by the Parachute Regiment's RHQ Recruitment team and all affiliated Para Detachments were invited.

Despite the grey and cloudy weather, we set off to Pudsey in high spirits. Upon arrival we all gathered in the drill hall. Detachments from as far afield as Boston, Northumbria, Oldham and others arrived, and once seated, we were given an opening welcome address by the OC Recruiting.

This was followed by a presentation about the Parachute Regiment's training including videos on the notorious P Coy and parachute jumping. All the Detachments present were then spilt into 3 groups ready for the round-robin. This splitting of groups enabled cadets from other counties to meet and chat with each other.

We then moved onto the first stand which was observation. Driffield did well.....apart from that damn, dangling bungee! The 2nd stand was the 'Jackal' vehicle. Here the cadets took what seemed like hundreds of posy/selfie pics, as well as a short detachment video.! Stephen Spielberg watch out!

We then moved back inside for the equipment and weapons stands. The group was split in half with one being shown the kit and equipment needed for operations, some cadets tried the kit on.....and shrank several inches! The other half were shown a variety of weapon systems used, from the

standard assault rifle, up to the .50 Cal. Once again, many 'Rambo' style pics were taken here.

After the cadets had eaten their packed lunches, they were invited to sample a selection of cooked 'compo' rations. Needless to say, the senior cadets were somewhat reluctant, whilst the younger ones were eager to taste. After lunch we moved onto the Command Task stand. This included the 'numbered' tyre challenge, blindfold mine

INSIGHT DAy

sweep and jerry can run. The paint-balling range was

next. Here the cadets were able to fire at targets from various positions and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The final stand was the parachute rigging trainer. The cadets were shown the jump equipment needed and then each took it in turns to be fitted into a parachute harness and shout those immortal words " One thousand, two thousand, three thousand check canopy".

Whilst waiting for all the cadets to finish the various stands, there was a question and answer session held. Many questions were asked but not all were able to be answered!

“Driffield cadets thoroughly enjoyed themselves and look forward to more activities with their affiliated Regiment and would like to thank all the members of the Recruiting team for the time and effort with organising the day's events”, said Lt David Linford and SI Kevin Newlove.

oNlY ThREE MoNThS into the new training year and cadets at Grimsby Detachment already shining!

Following their hard work and determination cadets are celebrating passing their star level - Army Proficiency Certificates in an award ceremony recently.

Cadets Priya Grewal and Chloe Daniels received basic pass certificates and badges, whilst Cadets Byron Hulton and Charlie Davies, with LCpl Jake Hiles, Cpls Harry Gee and

AWARDS GALORE AT GRIMSBY!

Alexandra Elsby all passed their two-star training; and a deserving Cpl Lyle McNally received his three-star certificate.

Detachment Commander 2Lt Matt Lundie said “it’s a great achievement for cadets at whatever star level to pass and receive their badges and certificates, well done to all of the cadets who received something tonight. They all work hard and are all looking forward to the new challenges they face with their continued training and development”.

iT WAS PRizES galore for cadets at Scunthorpe's annual inspection. Following a great inspection where the cadets showcased what it means to be in the ACF to the visiting inspecting officer from the RLC, prior to the final parade where the prizes were awarded.

Cdt Paige Heath was awarded most improved cadet; over the year she has word hard to improve her attitude and work ethic. She's shown great potential through her training and community spirit.

L/Cpl Zack Feve was given the NCO of the year award, for

hard work in the NCO management team and mentoring junior cadets in the detachment. He was also awarded the Cadet’s Cadet of the Year award, chosen by his fellow cadets for the trophy for being approachable, motivational and always been on hand to help with community events.

Cpl Kyron Seaman was awarded the Cadet of the Year award chosen by the Detachment Commander for his hard work since the last inspection in helping run the detachment, being a cadet that the junior cadets can look up to and always been a great example of what the cadet force is all about.

PRIzES GALORE

CADET REVIEW38 39autuMn/Winter 2016

CORPS OF DRUmS VISIT LONDON FOR TROOpING THE COLOURoN SATuRDAY 28Th of May Cadets and Adults from Corps of Drums C Company travelled to London to watch the famous parade' Trooping the Colour'.

This impressive display of pageantry is now held on the occasion of the Queen's Official Birthday. It takes place in June each year to celebrate the official Birthday of the Sovereign and is carried out by her personal troops, the Household Division, on Horse Guards Parade, with the Queen herself attending and taking the salute, in front of crowds of onlookers and is enjoyed by millions world-wide.

The Queen's Colour of a battalion of Foot Guards is 'trooped' (carried along the ranks) each year before the Sovereign. Only one colour can be trooped at a time, and the

five Household Regiments - Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish and Welsh Guards take their turn each year.

The ceremony derives from two old military ceremonies, Trooping the Colour and Mounting the Queen's Guard. The origin of the ceremony goes back to the early eighteenth century, and possibly even earlier, when the guards and sentries for the Royal Palaces and other important buildings in the capital were mounted daily on the parade ground by the Horse Guards building.

A feature of guard mounting was for the colours of the battalion to be carried (or 'trooped') slowly down the ranks so that they could be seen and recognised by the soldiers. In 1748 it was ordered that

huMbERSiDE AND South Yorkshire Army Cadet Force represented North East (4 Inf Bde) Region at the National Army Cadets Athletics Championship at the Meres Stadium, Grantham on Saturday June 11th.

Under grey skies and a testing wind, over four hundred athletes from all over the UK battled for the ultimate prize of a gold medal.

In total, eight regions took part in the event, including Scotland and Wales, providing a perfect blend of diversified talent. Nerves and excitement were very certainly evident as a very enthusiastic crowd buoyed the athletes on.

The event presented the organisers with a huge challenge but, with true military precision, the day unfolded like clockwork. Unsung heroes included the hard-working team from St John Ambulance, who were kept very busy as the young athletes pushed themselves to the limit of endurance. As the event came to an end, and well-earned prizes were handed out, the satisfaction of the participants was hard to miss.

this parade would also mark the official birthday of the Sovereign. From the accession of George IV, the parade became - with the few exceptions of two World Wars and a parade cancellation in 1955 caused by a national rail strike - an annual event.

Cdt Sgt Suraj Singh "Precisely as the clock on the Horse Guards Building strikes eleven, the Royal

Procession arrives and The Queen takes the Royal Salute. this for me was the highlight of the day, an experience I will not forget".

After the Parade the cadets were treated to a sightseeing tour of London taking in various famous sites including Trafalgar Square, Downing Street, The Houses of Parliament and the London Eye.

Cadet L/Cpl Emma Robinson National champion in girl’s discus described what winning a gold medal feels like. "At the nationals this year I have worked hard, and to be named the national champion in girl’s discus, where I was 2 metres clear from girl in second place with a throw of 21.97 meters. I also achieved 2nd place in the Shot Put with a throw of 31.7 metres and Javelin with a throw of 31.7metres. "Emma also went on to say "Having the field presentations last it meant everyone was put on parade and so when being presented with our medals it felt more deserving and it felt like I accomplished something that my detachment (Scunthorpe, E Company) had never done before which was win nationals. I felt extremely proud because everyone was there to see me get my medals."

L/Cpl Robinson was the only athlete to make it to the national championships in E Company on this she commented "after last weekend I realised I was the only one from the company to attend the national, I was really proud, but felt a lot

of responsibility. I was taking part in three disciplines…and I got on the podium for all three! Standing there receiving my medals I couldn't stop smiling knowing I had brought it home for my company"

She went on to say "The experience was brilliant and breath-taking; the athletics atmosphere was spectacular especially being part of the North East team where they all cheered for me when my name was called for my medal. I'm hoping to join the Army soon and I hope to carry on my progression and represent them, but I will never forget the opportunities I've had to take part in sport through the ACF and finishing my career in the ACF as a National Champion."

Humberside and South

Yorkshire ACF has many cadets who excel in field events too, especially 800m 8th Place Cdt Alex Klawinski of Greenhill 2.52.7min, High Jump 3rd Place L/Cpl Simone McDowall of Middleton 1.2m, 4x100m Relay 5th Place Cdt Olivia Winstanley of Hillsborough with team mates from YN & W and NACF ran an impressive 1:.006 mins and High Jump 2nd L/Cpl Morgan Revell of Signals with a fantastic jump of 1.24m

As overall ACF National Champions in 2016 Eastern Region once again proudly paraded the silverware with a fantastic score of 517 points.

The North East also repeated last year's position of second place and Scotland region came third with 495 and 454.5 points respectively.

NATIONAL ATHLETICS

WolFREToN DETAChMENT attended HM The Queen 90th Birthday Celebrations at Willerby Methodist Church.

The Detachment assisted with the running and setting up of the event as well as joining in the fun and games.

The Willerby Parish Council

were extremely grateful for our support; the Council have donated £100.00 to the Detachment.

A quote from the Parish Clerk “The event wouldn’t have gone ahead without the help, support and assistance of the Army Cadets”. “The cadets thoroughly enjoyed themselves” said Detachment Commander 2Lt Liam O’Loughlin.

HM The queen 90th Birthday Celebrations

By 2Lt Liam O’Loughlin

CADET REVIEW40 41

SENioR CADETS from B Company attended a mess dinner at TS Iron Duke, the Sea Cadet Detachment in Hull. This was in celebration of another fantastic training year, which was achieved through hard work from both senior cadets and adults combined.

With everyone arriving in formal dress for 19:00, we had ample time to have photos taken before being led through to the dining room by the Sea Cadets, who were excellent all night. With the B Company HQ staff seated at the top table, and the remainder of the cadets following on, everyone was prepared for the 3 course meal which was to come. Soon enough, the music played and food started to be served.

The main course itself,

served shortly after the carrot and coriander soup for starters, was a steak and ale pie, served with roast potatoes, new potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The pie itself was rich, filling and enjoyable all round, resulting in a room full of empty plates. Shortly after the Sea Cadets took our plates, they welcomed us to a selection of miniature desserts, including different sponges, chocolates and profiteroles. Once again, this course was excellent and a perfect end to the meal.

After allowing a short interval after the meal, a traditional bottle of (non-alcoholic) port was passed around the table, allowing everybody to fill their glasses before the speeches. CSM Adam Hussey stood first, thanking everybody present for their hard work throughout

the training year. Major David Mather’s speech followed, showing his gratitude to all of the senior cadets past and present, making us realise that we do in fact play a huge role in the training we do. We then finished the meal with a toast, not only to the hard work shown previously, but to the year to follow.

After leaving the room, everybody went onto the balcony for a group photo, after which people started to go home. However, looking around the room, I noticed that the senior cadets in B Company are a strong, close knit team, exciting me to the prospects of the upcoming training year. Whether

it be at detachment level, company weekends or on our 2016 Annual Camp in Germany, I am confident that both senior cadets and adults will work hard to maintain the standard expected of B Company.

I would like to thank the Sea Cadets of TS Iron Duke Detachment for catering for us on the night. Their manner was both polite and professional, the service was brilliant and the food was exquisite. Without them devoting their time to us, there wouldn’t have been a mess dinner to attend. Both adults and cadets were complimentary of their service, and we hope to see them in 2017 after another successful training year.

B Company say Thank you with a Mess Dinner

D CoMPANY hAS had a Special Visit by Michael Dugher, MP for Barnsley East, and former shadow defence minister, on Armed Forces Day.

He said in his blog “As a former shadow defence minister and someone worked at the Ministry of Defence for three years before becoming an MP, I’ve seen at first hand the amazing job our Armed Forces do.

That’s why my diary over the Armed Forces Day weekend includes visits to see soldiers at Fontenay Barracks, where Burma Company of the 4th Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment are based. Plus, I’ll meet Barnsley cadets from the Humberside and South

Yorkshire Army Cadet Force (ACF) who are training this weekend at Totley Ranges in Sheffield.

These visits are part of my membership of the Armed

Forces Parliamentary Scheme (AFPS), which gives MPs a chance to show our support for our Armed Forces and to gain an even greater understanding of what they do and how we can better assist them”.

On Armed Forces Day, communities up and down the

country rightly come together to recognise and celebrate the enormous contribution that our Armed Forces personnel make to our country today. And it is also an opportunity where we honour our veterans, remember the fallen and pay tribute to those who made so many sacrifices in the past.

CADETS AND adults from E Company have had a busy time of it to help celebrate Armed Forces Day in North East Lincolnshire. This year it was the turn of North East Lincolnshire to celebrate with a full week of activities as part of Cleethorpes National Armed Forces Celebrations.

Following the announcement last year, that Cleethorpes had been awarded the National event for 2016, there has been extensive planning from the organising committee, including 2Lt Matt Lundie - detachment commander of Grimsby Detachment and overall coordinator for the ACF involvement in this year’s activities, which included cadets taking part in the official flag raising events, the Longest Day 5K Fun run, cadet games, having a stand in the military village and taking part in the main parade, where over 90 cadets and adults took part.

2Lt Matt Lundie commented “All events we have been involved in, have been a great success. I would like to thank all who made this week so rewarding and look forward to many more Armed Forces Days to come. E Company showed its support for our armed forces. Well done everyone!”

Major Ian Mumby OC E Company said “I had the pleasure

of watching the parade march past the VIPs and dignitaries. Regular and Reserve Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force contingents marched past HRH The Duke of Kent, Rt. Hon David Cameron MP, The Secretary of State for Defence, Rt. Hon Michael Fallon MP, the Mayor of North East Lincolnshire, Councillor Christine McGilligan-Fell, and countless more invited guests from the Lord Lieutenant, Deputy Lord Lieutenants, Mayors and Deputy Mayors from neighbouring counties.” He went on to say “I was especially pleased to see the cadets from all three services march past in a very smart show of strength, with cadets assisting our veterans to proudly parade past the dais taking the Royal Salute.

2Lt Matt Lundie led the ACF contingent from the front, not just on the March, but through all the week’s activities. All the credit for the day goes to Matt and the able team of adult volunteers who worked tirelessly to deliver such a polished, professional and respectful display from E Company. It was clear to see how proud we all are of the cadet forces. Well done to them all for such a great turnout and performance in what has proved a great National Armed Forces Day event.”

Armed Forces Week Celebrated

in Style

Special Visit by mP

oN SATuRDAY 18 June 25 cadets and Adult Volunteers from Scunthorpe, Ashby and Barton detachments attended the North Lincolnshire Armed Forces Day at Birch Park, Scunthorpe, in a joint stand with the Army Reserve from 147 Field Company REME.

After an early start to set up the stand, cadets and adults took part in the first parade in front of the VIPs, L/Cpls Emma Robinson and Zack Feve were selected by the organising committee to raise the ensign marking the start of the day’s event. Following the parade Cpl Kyron Seaman was representing the ACF as Mayor’s Cadet, spending the morning escorting the Mayor of North Lincolnshire, Cllr Trevor Foster, around the event.

Once the parade was over, it was all hands to the stand promoting life in the ACF to the visitors, cadets gave command task demos, along with first aid scenarios, while

other cadets explained about training in the field and DofE.

The highlight of the day was when the Chelsea Pensioners visited the stand and spent time speaking to the cadets about their time in the army and how good it is to see young people enjoying themselves. The day was brought to an end following a sun set ceremony as the ensigns were lowed marking the end of Armed Forces Day in Scunthorpe.

North Lincolnshire Armed Forces Day at Birch park, ScunthorpeBy Lt Andrew Akester

By Lt Vicki Brooks and 2Lt Matt Lundie

autuMn/Winter 2016


Civic Ceremony to Inaugurate the Year of Office of Councillor Linda Burgess

MoNDAY 4 JulY has marked the end of three senior cadet’s careers in the ACF. Scunthorpe detachment has a tradition for a DVD and pizza night for senior cadets on their final night as a fun celebration. As the detachment arrived for parade training was officially cancelled, much to the delight of the newest recruits! The detachment was set up for the night, film put on, and the adults were sent out for pizzas to feed the troops. With all the food eaten, and cleaned away, it was time for final parade, where cadets received numerous awards.

Amongst the many certificates and awards presented were those to L/Cpl Ryan Poole who received his two-star certificate, and Cadet Matthew Bates received his one-star certificate. L/Cpl Jack Lynam received his basic and one star certificates for signals.

Then as the parade was dismissed, cadets lined the parade

square as the NCOs surrounded the leaving cadets and marched them out of the detachment gates, giving their final salute as they passed the detachment commander. The junior cadets ceremonially closed the gates on them. As the squad marched out of the gates onto the lane, there was a mass of emotion as the detachment had to say a final goodbye to cadets who have played a major part within the detachment in the last 4 years.

The detachment family wants to wish L/Cpl’s Kirk, Robinson and Kirkwood well in their future careers, we will miss you all.

Awards, march out and a lot of pizza at Scunthorpe Detachment

huMbERSiDE AND SouTh Yorkshire Army Cadets attended the Civic Ceremony, to inaugurate the year of office of Councillor Linda

Burgess on 16th June 2016.Young members and staff from

Barnsley Army Cadets attended the ceremony at “The Church of St Mary the Virgin Barnsley”.

Reverend Stephen Race thanked various groups from Barnsley who performed for Councillor Linda Burgess during the evening.

Sergeant Chris Lunn was

accompanied by four cadets Alex Hollinworth, Oliver Morrall, Neve Stretton and Emily Lingard, who all enjoyed the ceremony.

Speakers representing various groups in Barnsley which included, Young People, Charities, Health and Wellbeing Business, Arts and Culture, Council, Faith Community, all gave pledges to represent Barnsley and the good folk responded with “We welcome the opportunity to support local voluntary and community organisations working for others in our community”.

Councillor Linda Burgess thanked the public in her speech and is looking forward to the year ahead.

“It is always a delight to hear and receive thanks from the local councillors, organisation leaders and citizens of the town. I’m very proud. said Sergeant Lunn.”

E Company CampovER ThE WEEkEND of 1-3 July cadets and adults of E Company headed to Driffield for a weekend of Field Craft.

One-star training cadets and the adult training team made camp their home for the weekend, while two, three and four stars and a happy band of adult instructors headed into the training area for the weekend after checking into HQ.

The two-star platoon found their harbour area and quickly set up a hasty harbour, cadets soon had their heads down ready for their first night under the stars.

As the sun crept through the woods nice and early the crows decided it was time wake

the cadets! So with an early start, the harbour was cleared and it was time for breakfast. Following breakfast, it was straight into weapon handling tests for cadets and DS staff and revision sessions of camouflage and concealment and stalking, before setting up a new harbour and sentry posts.

By lunch time, the whole platoon had passed and headed off into the training area to carry out some dry training, before bombing up the magazines for one of three blank firing exercises over the weekend.

It was back to the harbour for evening meal and lessons on giving fire control orders before standing down.

As platoon commander it was

great watching the cadets develop throughout the day in skills and confidence, and how they carried sentry duties confronting other adults from the 3-star platoon who tried to infiltrate the harbour.

10.30pm came and all cadets were bedded down after a great day training, but it was another early start the next day....as the sun came through the trees, cadet’s heads started popping up from their bashas. In 30 minutes they were all up, decamped all well ready for breakfast.

After breakfast it was straight back into training, magazines filled and the patrol headed off into the training area, which was made even more realistic as riding around the area was a company of soldiers from the Queen’s Yeomanry who were carrying out a training exercise around the training area.

As the platoon patrolled down a track, the enemy (played by the three stars) attacked, returning fire the cadets from the two-star platoon covered each other as they used the cover of the woods

behind them, to break contact and peel away from the ambush. After the reorg, weapons were put onto transport and cadets walked back into camp to clean the weapons. The adults kept the morale high through the weapon cleaning by entertaining the platoon with dancing and singing.

Not all the fun was had by the two stars, the basic and one star platoons spent the weekend doing skill at arms and drill in camp before doing a blank firing exercise out in the training area putting their newly acquired skills.

While out in the field the platoons got an extra special treat with a visit to the Queen’s Yeomanry, where they got to speak to the soldiers and try out life on exercise with the troop in their vehicles and having a tour of their equipment.

SI Rob Elliott, Platoon Sgt for the weekend said “the cadets worked really hard and to get them to experience this in our training area give them a great experience, they were buzzing after the visit and went home having a great camp”. Making a splash

CADETS FRoM all over the county came together for their annual swimming competition, held at Haltemprice Regional Pool on 9 July.

Cadets from all five companies were swimming in events of individual medley,

breast stroke, freestyle, back stroke, and butterfly with support from friends and team mates who cheered on each cadet to victory.

D Company cadets came away with an impressive haul of medals and trophies having taken first place in the senior girl’s competition and achieving

the overall winning company trophy.Cadet Joshua Almond of Greenhill

said “today has been challenging but rewarding. All cadets and adult volunteers enjoyed the event, it was great to see all cadets give 100% effort and participation from everyone. Congratulations

to D Company as overall winners, what an achievement and fantastic end to a great day.”

Cadet Kiera McKenna, also of Greenhill who put in a strong performance in her heat, said “today has been enjoyable and the team spirt has been ace, everyone cheered each other on while in the pool.”

By Cpl Tanicha Taylor


AFTER oFFiCiAllY bringing down the curtain on her Army Cadet Force career Sheila Maughan retired from the county, and Yorkshire and the Humber RFCA.

Over the last few years Sheila worked in County HQ at Driffield on behalf of the RFCA where she made a great impact supporting the daily lives of both cadets and adults.

Major Dean Rushby said ‘Another great cog going…..thank you Sheila for all the support you have given me in all my roles throughout my time served in the ACF .......you will be greatly missed...…best wishes for the future”. Captain

Nicky Pettinger added “thank you for everything, in both of your roles you gave us girls a chance. Enjoy your retirement”. SMI Terry Gowing said “Sheila you are a wonderful lady with a heart of gold that will sadly be missed, good luck in your retirement”. Staff Sergeant Claire Moverley said “good luck in your retirement and thank you for all your help”.

We would like to wish Sheila the very best on behalf of everyone at Humberside and South Yorkshire Army Cadet Force. Sheila has indeed been part of the lifeblood of this County Force for so many years and has always gone that Extra Mile for everyone.

….And another retirement party at Driffield

Sheila, with her husband, Paul, who also retired from the ACF recently

Vip treat for E Company Cadets

oN SATuRDAY 23 July, cadets and adults headed off Bolsover Castle as guests of Sir Reggie Tyrwhitt, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire and English Heritage. Sir Reggie won a prize as part of the 1066 competition which involved finding the English Heritage Arrow, having found it hidden at St Peter’s Church, Barton upon Humber.

He kindly donated the prize “Meet the Normans Event at Bolsover Castle” to our

cadets from Scunthorpe, Ashby and Barton Detachments, to say thank you for their hard work and enthusiasm at the North Lincolnshire Armed Forces Day Event.

Once we all got to Bolsover, we were met by Samantha Vaughan who manages events for the Eastern Region, where a brief on what was happening throughout the day.

The fun started with the cadets taking part in spear school, there they were given a lesson on how Norman soldiers used spears in battle. This was quickly followed by a musical interlude within the castle walls, before being invited back to the front of the castle where the Norman Soldiers were giving a display, before charging at the crowds in full formation.

Following the display, we had some time to explore the castle and grounds with an audio tour, and even sneak in some Pokémon hunting. Just before lunch the group met up before being shown into the riding school for a private talk on the Norman Soldier and horses before heading back to the demonstration

area for a real life demonstration of their horsemanship in battle.

Before we knew it, it was lunch time and English Heritage had provided us all a fantastic picnic, which went down a treat with the cadets especially when they got to keep the bags. We got to watch a fantastic Falconry display in the grounds of the castle, with one of the cadets even getting to take part in the display. Even running as fast he could, but Cadet Joshua Twidle could not outrun the falcon.

Soon it was 3pm and treat time, with English Heritage providing everyone with ice creams, before

giving all the cadets a goodie bag filled with gifts from the gift shop as a final surprise. The trip, was a great surprise from Sir Reggie Tyrwhitt, a brilliant treat for well deserving cadets from all three detachments and adults who enjoyed a great day. English Heritage made us feel very welcome and treated everyone as VIPs for the whole day.

I would like to thank Sir Reggie and English Heritage on behalf of cadets and adults of E Company who attended the trip. It will be a day out the cadets and adults will remember for a long time to come.

Brigade SAAM CompetitioniT’S A ClEAR hot Sunday morning in September with cadets from the North East Region participating in the annual target shooting competition, sponsored by 4th Infantry Brigade, on the ranges at Queen Elizabeth II Barracks, Strensall York.

Cadets are into the final two matches of this shooting competition, which is highly regarded in the cadet calendar because of the bragging rights given to the winning county.

As teams quickly moved from the merlin match to the final match of the day, the falling plates match. This match consists of 2 x 4-man teams running 100metres, getting into the prone position then shooting down 10 small metal plates as quickly as possible. The winning team is the one to hit all the plates first or the highest number of plates. Valiant efforts were given all around but the undisputed winner for Humberside and South Yorkshire ACF was C company well done.

This year’s Brigade SAAM competition saw another fantastic performance from those cadets representing Humberside and South Yorkshire ACF. Coming second overall the county team came away with an impressive haul of results this included RSM Oliver Smith, 2nd place in the Individual, E Company, 1st place in the Section Match and B Company,

2nd Place in the Merlin Match.Organised by 4th Infantry

Brigade, the prizes were presented by Lieutenant Colonel Jim Greenlee, who congratulated both cadets and adults on their commitment to the competition particularly given the exceptionally busy period we have had since annual camp. He went on to make special mention

of the adults and those cadets who had given up their time to work as range staff which had enabled the competition to go ahead. Their contribution was equal to those who had competed in the shooting and he wished to thank them for their dedication to the ACF.

All the cadets and adult volunteers had a great weekend. Well, done to all.

By Lt Vicki Brooks


Duke of Edinburgh's Award Germany

ThE DukE oF EDiNbuRgh’S Award (DofE) is one of the world’s most popular development programmes for young people aged 14-25. The award includes four categories of highly practical, cultural and adventurous activities. Most of these are cross-related with the ACF activities covered in the APC Syllabus. So whilst you’re training for first aid, drill, target shooting and expeditions, you’re also working towards your DofE Award. The Awards are well regarded and recognised by universities and employers.

I wanted to get involved with DofE because it’s a huge opportunity to enable yourself as an individual to gain so many life skills. Yes, Gold DofE is hard but it’s so rewarding! The life skills you gain from it become useful, even if it’s just basic map reading or how to plan an effective wild country route. I have completed my Bronze and Silver award and knowing I achieved them is a fantastic feeling and that I’m currently working towards my Gold award is a huge achievement for myself.

I would recommend all levels of DofE to anyone. The most important piece of kit in my opinion is a water bottle. Water is the essential that keeps you going, and drinking the correct amount of water can keep you hydrated and put you in the right mood to keep up and finish the expedition.

The gold DofE expedition period has been a massive challenge to us all. We looked back on the weekend we’ve done from the preparation days to the qualifying week its self. We have all realised what our strengths and weaknesses are and

how we have developed them. It’s been a very tough journey but now we are glad to say it’s over! what other way could of being better than doing your qualifying expedition in the Black Harz Mountains.

We’ve all bonded and created strong relationships that will last a life time where we can look back in years’ time and realise that all the hard, demanding work all paid off to give us the memories that we have created. Luckily Our group is a very strong, friendly allocated group where we all work together to get things completed and help those who struggle team work! We usually sing songs which bring back our current memories of our DofE levels which brings good morale!

Also sweets! If you have sweets, you can always stay positive! Going back on some of our memories our best one has to be Getting the role of the Duke of Edinburgh detachment representative was a proud moment for me as it made me able to get involved in the DofE scheme and to help the younger cadets get involved too.

It is a distinguishing role to have because I’ve had the chance to help with beginning the DofE journey for the younger cadets who are starting out, just like I did. My funniest moment happened when doing my practice for bronze DofE, we were walking through a field when an angry bull started chasing our group. Our heavy rucksacks slowed us down when trying to outrun the gigantic bull and I’d never been so scared for my life being the slowest runner therefore the closest to the animal! We managed to get to the gate but it was so small we had to drop the rucksacks and leave them in the field until the bull lost its

interest and went away, only then did we retrieve them! We all said how it was like something out of a comedy sketch! At the time we felt that it was the end but looking back it was definitely my most fun and memorable moment. Hopefully this won’t happen in Germany! Most of all I would highly recommend to everyone to at least give it a shot. The advice I’d give is that if you doubt yourself, that you believe you can’t do it, try it! I believed I could never walk that far and carry all my equipment but I thought there’s no harm in giving it a shot? So I did and loved it and couldn’t wait for the next one, it was the most enjoyable thing, I’ve ever done in my cadet force career. But the most important key is I believe is, defiantly to enjoy yourself! If you’re not enjoying yourself, you’re bound not to put 100% effort in. Personally I would highly recommend it to anyone who wouldn’t considering it because it’s a once in a life time opportunity to gain great experience, what other way can you get the chance to meet the Duke of Edinburgh himself? Answer: by hard work, determination, and dedication I will get my gold award presented to me in London, a proud moment it will be for myself, family and friends.

ThE golD ExPEDiTioN JouRNEY...ThE bEgiNNiNg...

Practice Weekend The first practice weekend was held at Totley in the Peak District. The aim of the expedition was to locate remains of plane crashes on the Kinder Scout Hill. We were

driven to the start of our route at the village of Edale where we set off. The start of the route was gradually uphill until we reached the area where the path as we knew it more or less ended. The following couple of hours were slow drags up the side of the hill, as we ascended the majority of the height in one go. The majority of the day was spent on the top of the hill, progress was very slow and we only managed to see two of the crash sites and had to skip out the others due to lack of time and threatening weather patterns. We were out walking for only 10 hours but we averaged a speed of 1.5km an hour which was a big wake up call for us to say that we needed to speed up and get on with things. All in all, the practice weekend was a learning curve for all of us and allowed us to take back from the weekend a lot more than we expected, as it dawned on some people how much of a challenge the final exped would be.

DAY 1- On the first day of our gold expedition we had to wake up at 7 o’clock and get our breakfast, we also had to pack our kit and put our tents down. We had to do this because we had a briefing at 8 o’clock for our route on the day to make sure we were all clear on what the route is and if there were any changes. Once we had set off we didn’t understand how challenging the ground was until we were halfway through the day as on the map it showed tracks that we couldn’t see on the ground in front of us. There was many more tough decisions and challenges ahead. Unfortunately, we did not reach the campsite that night as we got off track and had to stop

in a hut until we found out where we were. As some members of the team was finding out where we were the other members were cooking our tea for the night. By this time, it was midnight and pitch black as was a rough few hours back to the campsite.

DAY 2 - started by walking Day 1’s route back into camp. After a demanding walk back into campsite down a mountain, we finally got to sleep at 02:00am. We then woke up at 09:00am and started another hard day of walking. Trying to keep a speed of 4 KM/H in the Harz Mountains up and down hard terrain with rocky paths and the great heat and sun draining our energy. Along the route we encountered snakes, bugs and a few friendly hikers who spoke near to no English. We had planned stops at crossroads and huts along the way with information plotted around and geo-cashes about making the experience more enticing. Although the walk was hard on our feet, shoulders and hips, the views at the peaks of mountains give an unforgettable experience which is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see and we

all feel so lucky to have been on the DofE team which we all worked so hard to be a part of. At the end of Day 2, we arrived at our campsite at 21:30 and was putting our tents up as the sun went down, a late tea, showered and went to bed ready for another long day of walking.

DAY 3 - Waking up in the morning on the third day of the expedition was gruelling. Straight away everyone was truly ready to give up. Our assessor, Captain Summers, had to strap up my blistered and bleeding feet so that I could actually continue! Although we were now

half way through the journey, it seemed senseless to give up so close to the end and I think the contentment of finally completing the award was spurring us all on.

Setting off in earnest, we went to a mining museum for part of our aim. Regrettably as it was a Monday, the museum was closed - however later on we had the opportunity to go back and explore it in more depth.

Unfortunately, we also lost a team member due to the strenuous and demanding things which this challenge had thrown our way. Even with this minor

drawback, our walking pace was fast (walking more than 1k in 12 minutes) and we got to our final campsite - located in the village of Osterode - in good time.

The rest of us were now determined to complete this with a tenacious mindset on the finish line! We couldn’t let everyone down, especially my mum!

DAY 4 - of our expedition was really tough, as we had been walking for 3 days already. But that didn’t stop us from finishing as we all had the satisfaction of being the first group to finish our gold expedition, in Germany, in our minds. Day 3, we were ready to give up (as we had lost a team member and were in incredible amounts of pain) however we pushed through the pain, continuing to stick together and get everyone through the terrible time. The terrain was awful but we still managed to keep a decent speed throughout the day with the thought of getting back to camp and jumping in the swimming pool - well actually, we were pushed in. On the last leg of the day, we all had massive smiles on our face to show how proud we all were for completing the expedition and how proud we were of each other. There were tears, arguments and injuries throughout the expedition, but we did it... and I’m so proud of everyone in my team for completing it and helping me to complete it too! It was such an experience, with great memories and people - which won’t be forgotten.

The Team members were CSM Bradley Kerswill, S/Sgt Mathew Jackson, Sgts Mathew Joseph Chappell, Scarlet Honour, Rebecca Beilby and Anthony Ashworth, together with Cpl Luke Tomkinson.

By CSM Bradley Kerswill


bRADFoRD SEA CADET, Petty Officer Cadet Charlie Noon, aged 17 and from Pudsey, has been installed as the Lord Mayor’s Cadet at a special ceremony in City Hall. The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Cllr Geoff Reid, installed POC Noon, giving him his badge of office, before awarding a total of 35 certificates to 18 cadets following their boating week at Thrapston, near Kettering in Northamptonshire. The Lord Mayor is also Patron of Bradford Sea Cadets.

POC Noon, who recently left school, has been a cadet for five years, becoming a Petty Officer Cadet in 2015 – the highest level a cadet can achieve and he is

now the most senior cadet in the Unit. Since joining, Charlie has gained a phenomenal number of qualifications in a wide range of disciplines including meteorology, piping (blowing the boatswain call), chart work, engineering, rope work and rigging, but his main specialisation has been catering. His water-based qualifications include power boating, sailing and rowing. Charlie is a regular member of the Unit Guard and has represented the Unit and the West Yorkshire District in Area Colour Party Competition for three years and, in 2012, was a member of the Guard at the National Trafalgar Day Parade in London. He enjoys

shooting, and has represented the Unit at international level, where he was placed in the top sixteen. If this wasn’t enough, Charlie helps with fund raising events for the Unit, in addition to helping with the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, and the Veterans’ Day in Centenary Square. As a Petty Officer Cadet he is also expected to teach the younger cadets and is well respected by both cadets and staff.

Cadet Caitlin Baczkowski, who turned 12 whilst at Thrapston, receives three certificates for sailing, power boating and windsurfing

bRADFoRD SEA Cadets,

Cadet 1st Claudio Palma and Cadet

Piankhi Ta Seti were selected to

lead the procession for the Queen’s

birthday celebrations. Other cadets

marched behind the band, leading the

procession of local school children,

around City Park on a rather dull wet day.

bRADFORD CADETS LEAd CITY’S BIRTHdAY pARAdE

LORD mAyOR’S CADET

A TEAM of blind veterans has come fourth in the World Pace Stick Championships – a competition normally only open to fully-sighted military teams. This is the first year that a civilian team has been allowed to enter, and the fact that the team was blind has made history … and is being looked into to see if it qualifies for the Guinness Book of Records.

Petty Officer (SCC) Steve Birkin RN Ret was in the Navy for twelve years and served in the Gulf War. The team is made up of three blind ex-servicemen, plus one sighted sergeant who is still serving in the Coldstream Guards. All the teams have to reach a required standard and the Blind Veterans qualified after knocking a Grenadier Guards team out of the running. There were a total of 25 teams including those from Australia, Bahrain and Jordan.

Following the championships, the team led the armed forces down the Mall for the Queen’s birthday parade. PO Birkin said “Her Majesty is patron of Blind Veterans UK and I was told later that we were the only team she actually stood for and clapped: I felt immensely proud”.

The Blind Veterans hope to be taking part in a display in the Royal Albert Hall later in the year. Then they start practicing again for next year’s championships which Steve says they intend to win!

PO Birkin joined Bradford Sea

Cadets shortly after leaving the Navy where, despite losing his sight, he still takes classes and is an active member of the volunteer staff.

HISTORy mADE by BLINd vETERANS

48 SEA CADET CORPS

The Lord Mayor, with POC Charlie Noon holding his badge of office


oN SuNDAY 12th June 2016 myself and JCFC Jack Smith-son were lucky enough to be part of the Patron's Lunch on the Mall outside Buckingham Palace!

10,000 people attended the event and the Sea Cadet Corps were lucky to have been given 22 places. The Corps held a competition for the cadets to explain in 50 words what Our Patron meant to them. Out of the 6 Areas, 2 cadets were chosen from each Area. Jack won a place from Eastern Area with his entry:The queen means the world to me, she protects our country and brings money to great britain.Every country knows great britain has a queen and she is symbolic to the united kingdom.She's graceful and always looks nice and her favourite colour is yellow the same as my mum’s.

I was able to chaperone Jack to the event and it was the highlight of both of our Sea Cadet experiences so far.We got to speak to Prince Andrew, The Countess of Wes-sex, Prince Edward, Esther Rantzen, Mel Giedroyc (Pre-senter of the Great British Bake off) and Alexander Armstrong (Presenter of Pointless)Seeing the Queen and Prince Phillip drive past in the open top cars along with Prince William, Prince Harry and Kate was the highlight of the day though.

Although it rained until lunchtime it didn't dampen our spirits and we kept on smiling

pATRON’S LUNCHBy PO Heather Blades

like true Brits! We donned our Sea Cadet branded Ponchos and if we wanted extra protec-tion we had the Patron's Lunch ponchos at hand too. We were able to take our lovely Marks and Spencer hampers home with us and both Jack and I will treasure these as a reminder of something that others could have only wished to have been a part of.

hull SEA CADETS and Royal Marine Cadets took part in the Beverley Armed Forces Day Parade on 3 July 2016.

Lieutenant Janice Spicer (SCC) RNR, accompanied by CPO Freda Cheesman and Sgt Paul Hofman, ensured that all of the Cadets maintained their usual high standards and many favourable comments were received afterwards.

A small party of Junior Cadets assisted SSAFA on their tombola stall and handed out flags. The Executive Officer, CPO (SCC) Sally Green and Cadet 1st Harry Wardle were delighted to meet the Mayor of Beverley when he stopped by the Hull Sea Cadet stand.

BEvERLEY ARmED FORCES DAy 3 JULY 2016

Executive Officer CPO (SCC) Sally Green with the Mayor of Beverley and OC Harry Wardle.


hull SEA Cadets attended a Memorial Service for the 100th Anniversary of the Bat-tle of Jutland on 31 May 2016.

The Service was held at the Cenotaph by Chaplain

(SCC) Duncan Harris RNR - Hull Unit and North East Yorkshire District Chaplain. The Lord Mayor of King-ston upon Hull and other guests were also present.

COmmEmORATION OF THE BATTLE OF JUTLANd

A gRouP of Junior Hull Sea Cadets paid a visit to the Hull Peoples’ Memorial Centre to learn more about the 1st World War and how the soldiers coped with the hardships they faced in the trenches.

Alan Brigham (in charge of the Centre) was very impressed by the cadets’ enthusiasm and the number of questions asked. A worthwhile visit which also covered how severely Hull was bombed during the 2nd World War.

JULY vISIT TO THE HULL pEOpLES’ MEMORIAL CENTRE

hull SEA Cadets hosted a Waterborne camping weekend at Welton Waters attended by some of the North East Sea Cadet Units.

Qualifications were achieved, together with having a great weekend. So much fun and activity on the water meant that some very tired cadets departed for home on the Sunday.

NORTH EASTERN AREA SEA CADETSWATERbORNE WEEkEND AUGUST 2016

lT CDR (SCC) Jacqui Gorman (RNR) was delighted to award the Cadet Forces’ Medal to husband and wife team CPOs Petrina and Keith Wollaston.

Petrina, who is the Ad-vanced First Aid Instructor/Assessor for the District and

TS IRON DUkE – CAdET FORCES’ MEdAL

First Aid Co-ordinator of North and East Yorkshire, joined Hull Sea Cadets in 2001. Keith, who joined the Unit in 2002, is the Advanced PTI and Kayaking Coach. A well-deserved award for both of them.

CPO Petrina Wollaston, Lt Cdr (SCC) Jacqui Gorman RNR and CPO Keith Wollaston

iT WAS Heritage Weekend in Hull, 8 – 11 September and cadets from TS Iron Duke joined members of the Royal British Legion on their stand in the Museum Quarter. It was a very rainy day but the cadets were not deterred! Suitably attired, they braved the ele-ments. One of their first visitors

was the President of the Hull Sea Cadets, the Lord Mayor of Kingston upon Hull accom-panied by his wife, the Lady Mayoress. The Lord Mayor suggested a photo on one of the EYMS buses which were part of the Big Bus Day exhibition – the cadets readily agreed in order to avoid the rain!

HULL SEA CADETS – TS IRON dUkE – ROYAL BRITISH LEGION

JC Ellie-Mae Brown, Junior 1st Jake Elliott, Cadet Corey Turtill, Cadet Sean Jolly and not forgetting CPO Freda Cheesman


ThE uNiT was delighted to host the presentation ceremony for the Ordre National de la Legion d’Honneur to two 96 year old veterans, Edward Carey and Peter Dukes. The award, which is the highest French order for military and civil merits and divided into five degrees, was first established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802.

In 2014 the French Government began recognising the part British soldiers played in the liberation of their country during the Second World War. These two gentlemen

were awarded the Chevalier (Knight) which is the highest honour.

The Lord Lieutenant of the East Riding of Yorkshire, the Hon. Susan Cunliffe-Lister, presented the awards and guests included Alan Johnson, MP for Hull West and Hessle, members of the Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club, residents of the Rowans Care Home where the ex-servicemen live and of course their families and friends. It was a privilege to honour the bravery of these two veterans who fought on the beaches of Normandy more than 70 years ago.

TS IRON dUkE WELCOMES TWO NORMANdY vETERANS

OC Sam Bellamy, Harry Wardle and Tatania Whitham with Cadet 1st Sapphire WhithamFront; L/Cpl Charlie Featherstone, Edward Carey, Peter Dukes and MC1 Jacob Owston

oN 12 SEPTEMbER 2016 the Royal Naval Parade and Official Opening Ceremony of the new Sheffield Sea Cadets Headquarters took place. In attendance were our many supporters including veterans of the Armed Forces, community leaders and VIPs from across the country.

VIPs in attendance included our Unit President, HM Lord-Lieutenant South Yorkshire Andrew Coombe, the Right Worshipful the Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Councillor Denise Fox, the Master Cutler of Sheffield, the Captain of Sea Cadets UK, Captain Phil Russell RN, with Councillors Talib Hussain and Jackie Drayton.

All cadets paraded outside where inspecting officers checked uniforms followed by several displays: the Sea Cadets organised a performance to demonstrate the evolution of the Sheffield Sea Cadet Corps over the years; Sheffield

being the first in the country to allow girls to amalgamate with the boys.

The Royal Marine Cadets gave a demonstration on how they patrol and move in the field; and the Junior Sea Cadets provided a bit of comedy to the event by singing a song about our adult volunteers and staff members. Following this the Lord Mayor of Sheffield used an officer’s sword to cut the cake with HMS Sheffield and the Ship’s Crest on it, which signified the opening of our new unit.

At the end of the night Captain Phil Russell spoke to the entire ships company and guests, “I see many units across the country, and it is wonderful to be invited here tonight. After speaking to the cadets I have heard all opportunities they have; everything from sailing abroad to flying. A great volunteer team keeps this place alive, and there is so much potential still to grow”.

The Chair of Sheffield Sea Cadets, Teresa Smith, said “It has

been a huge transformation for us all. Going from a small team of 6 cadets and staff, to over 100 in an excellent training centre with outdoor facilities and room to develop. A huge thanks to all who have been involved in getting us here. The future of

FUTURE LOOkS bRIGHT FOR SHEFFIELD

BY pETTY OFFICER (SCC) CHRISTOpHER SMITH

the ‘Shiny Sheff’ looks bright!Our new Unit has great potential

to grow. This year has been incredible for Sheffield Sea Cadets as we have been busy with many things from recruitment to wining national awards such as the Royal Navy’s Peregrine Trophy for photography.


SCARbOROUGH NEWS

ThiS YEAR’S aim was to "row to remember" by rowing the distance to the battle of Jutland as 2016 is the centenary of the famous sea battle.

The Cadets didn't let the weather affect them as they

rowed throughout the day clocking up the distance of 172 kilometres on the 3 rowing machines by 1645. The day was split into shifts but a number of ships company did the full event, their efforts raised £277.78p

SCARBOROUGH SEA CAdETS ANNUAL "ROWATHON" FUNDRAISING EVENT

SCARboRough CADETS enjoy time away on the offshore vessels, two travelled on our flagship TS Royalist and three on the Jubilee Sailing Trust Tall Ship, Lord Nelson.

Ordinary Cadets Lydia Crampton and Kirsten Davenport spent a week on TS Royalist learning to sail the 100 ton square rigger sailing from Oban to Greenock.

Leading Cadets Brandon Palmer, Phoebe Donbavand and Francis Davenport joined the Lord

Nelson, sailing from London. The Jubilee Sailing Trust

provides life-changing adventures to people of all ages, backgrounds and levels of physical ability. The voyages change lives by improving self-esteem, building confidence, and providing fantastic leadership and life skills.

We have a long standing relationship with the Trust which is supported by our President Mr Fred Normandale and our Trustee Mr Colin Woodhead.

SUmmER OFFSHORE VOyAGES

ThREE CADETS from Keighley Sea Cadets are the first cadets in the District to achieve the converted British Canoeing’s 3 star award. They completed the 3 star award in the Lake District during a grueling two day assessment under the beady eye of the level 4 kayak coach and course Kayak Training Director, Andy Noblett, who said; “I’m very impressed by the level of skills, determinations and team spirit of the entire group … they are certainly a credit to the Sea Cadets Corps!”

Successful performance at this level demonstrates that cadets can consider themselves as demonstrating both high levels of individual kayaking skills but also clearly demonstrates their collective ‘team working’, personal motivation and resilience particularly when paddling in open water in challenging weather conditions.

The team was tested across a challenging range of boating and leadership skills: •Deep Water Rescue•Raft building•Sailing, •Deep Water Rescue•Towing•Rope work •Poling•Safety, Leadership and Group Skills•Weather•Health and First Aid•Planning•Navigation•Personal paddling skills

In addition, Chief (Matthew) Hall achieved his 3 star canoeing and is on route to gain his level 2 Coach.

In recognition to the outstanding sporting achievements of the unit they have recently taken the delivery of £10,000 worth of specialist kayaking and canoeing equipment.

£10,000 SPORTENGLAND

GRANT ANd HITTING

THE STARS FOR kEIGHLEY

SEA CAdETS!

TS SCARboRough made their annual pilgrimage to SCTC Caledonia in Rosyth Scotland for a week afloat, where the cadets and staff spent time on the water windsurfing, sailing and power boating on the Firth of Forth under the bridges.

All cadets achieved qualifications and had the full experience of living on a military establishment.

UNIT SUmmER CAmP TS SCARboRough cadets and staff joined over 200 other members of the SCC at Dearne Valley, near Doncaster, for a week’s activities at Kingswood Adventure Centre.

The cadets took part in high ropes confidence, raft building, archery, fencing, camp craft, zip line and abseiling, making friends from all over the country.

NATIONAL JUNIOR SUmmER CAmP 2016

Scarborough trio see how other countries do things on the International Exchange 2016

INTERNATIONAL ExCHANGES 2016

ThREE SCARboRough Sea Cadets had the chance of lifetime this summer as they were among the lucky few to be part of the Sea Cadet Corps International Exchange programme and visited the far corners of the globe to see how the Sea Cadets from around the world do business.

Leading Cadet Francis Davenport travelled to South Korea for an amazing two weeks sampling the food, sites and culture of a truly wonderful land. Whilst there she took part in sightseeing trips to Buddhist temples, shopping in Seoul and time at sea with the coastguard. Francis added "I loved every minute of it including the food, made friends and memories for life".

Leading Cadet Phoebe Donbavand jetted to the Far East to

the land of the rising sun spending two weeks in Japan and visiting the mesmerising Tokyo city, even though first couple of days saw the cadets evacuated into different buildings to avoid a typhoon, "that was cool". She also had the opportunity to sample the local food which was a challenge and not her favourite part of the exchange however her saviour was the digestive biscuits that helped her through her time away. She spent time all over the city including a city orienteering activity and got a feel for the culture when they visited some of the outlying islands. Phoebe commented "it has been an amazing experience and I will never forget it".

Royal Marine Cadet Jack Murray spent 7 weeks of the summer in Canada on an international training

camp. He took part in activities ranging from sailing, camping, shooting and white water rafting to drill and cultural visits. Jack said " the best part was seeing the different ways other cadets work and some of the scenery was breath-taking, I will never forget my time away and to be honest I didn't want to come back! But don't tell my mum that!"

Royal Marine Cadet Jack Murray

X-RAY COMpANY SUMMER CAMp 20165 MEMbERS of TS Scarborough RMCD travelled to Thetford for a week’s training in the field.

They joined the rest of X-ray Company in various exercises and activities including weapons handling training, casualty evacuation exercises and section attacks.

Scarborough's Royal Marine Cadet Detachment are still fairly new and the skills learned will help them as they work towards their first CATSEA assessment in October when they get tested on all their skills and knowledge.

Leading Cadet Phoebe Donbavand in Hong Kong

Leading Cadet Francis Davenport in South Korea


58 COmbINED CADET CORPS

QUEEN ETHELbURGA’S ExERCISE DRAGON’S CHALLENGE“A WEEk OF SUNSHINE IN THE SNOWdONIA NATIONAL pARk”oN SATuRDAY the 28th of May cadets from Queen Ethelburga’s College CCF together with cadets from Bridlington School CCF deployed on Exercise Dragon’s Challenge, their annual Adventurous Training Camp.

The exercise took place in the Snowdonia National Park and saw them participating in Mountain Biking, Kayaking, Canoeing, Orienteering and Hiking to the summit of Mount Snowdon at 1085m above sea level.

Here’s what 2 of the cadets had to say:

CADET SERgEANT ChRiSToPhER JoNES (raf)“The adventure training camp heldduring May half term at the BethesdaCadet Training Centre proved to be afantastic week for myself and fellow cadets from Queen Ethelburga’s. As an RAF cadet I was welcomed by Army Cadets and staff from my school and Bridlington School CCF, and rather surprisingly the weather was exceptional all week which isn’t usually the case in Snowdonia.

From Sunday to Thursday the Cadet Training Team staff and our own instructors managed to provide challenging and exciting activities for all cadets with varying ability, ranging from mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, orienteering and having the opportunity to summit Mount Snowdon. Kayaking and canoeing was a two – day activity where the first day involved learning the basics in a quiet cove,

and then on the second day we were able to venture out on to the open lake, however some groups had to abort due to high winds. Mountain biking was a great challenge where we had the chance to tackle a 20 mile route with some leg burning hills to climb, but it was very rewarding when we could turn around and go back down the hills – reaching adrenaline pumping speeds. Orienteering was a great chance for us all to practice our map reading skills, but the highlight of the week for most cadets was the chance to summit Mount Snowdon, and all groups were fortunate to have clear views from the top. Everyone embraced the activities and I have no doubt that most cadets will sign up for the same camp next year, I was very proud of my fellow cadets from Queen Ethelburga’s and I very much enjoyed the company of Bridlington School CCF and I hope that we can share more camps like this one in the future.”

CADET Abi Smith-dodSWorth (army)“Following our arrival and after getting settled in we went down for dinner and had a short introduction from all the camp leaders, we then had time to meet with the other school before going to sleep.

On the first day I had mountain biking at the Snowdonia Quarry. The route itself was quite challenging as it was up hill all the way, however, it was considerably easier on the way back down and was great fun.

On the second day I had orienteering, which was a route of around 10km with a map trying to find our way along the tracks that went off in many different directions. The sights on the way were amazing! Where we stopped for our lunch we could see Mount Snowdon. At the end of the walk we had a long rest break then headed back to base camp.

The third day was kayaking and canoeing. This was one of my favourite activities of the week

A TALE OF THREE UNIFORmS

AFTER JoiNiNg the Royal Air Force section of the Leeds Combined Cadet Force in year 9, I have developed skills and had experiences that have helped me to develop into the person I am now.

These skills had been strengthened once I joined the Army Cadet Force and then later as a Royal Marine cadet as each organisation used slightly different methods of training which allowed me to use these differences to develop the best methods in order to me an effective and efficient leader. I have developed friendships that will last a life time and also have been able to build confidence in everything I do from within the cadet forces and also in my own personal life.

GLIdING EXpERIENCE

so far. We started with kayaking for the first half of the day, doing loads of team based games and some just as individuals. Then for the second half of the day we did canoeing. For this we also did a lot of team based games.

On the fourth day we climbed Mount Snowdon. This was a long and very tiring trek up the Pyg track to the summit. After reaching the top we had lunch and set off back down the track, cutting off onto the old Miners’ track where it was mainly flat all the way back to the bus. After finishing the climb, I felt extremely pleased with myself and what I had achieved.

On the final day we did kayaking and canoeing again, however this time we did canoeing first then kayaking. We canoed down a large river and did some games in a small cut off section of the river. We then headed back and did some more games in the afternoon with two teams, both with kayaks and canoes.

After the week was over I felt as though I had achieved many things like climbing the second highest mountain in the UK (highest in Wales) and the mountain bike challenge. I was very nervous about going but I have made loads of new friends and despite being the only girl that went from QE I have had an amazing time!”

By Sergeant James Dahlgreen, Leeds Grammar School

MY NAME is Benjie Ambler and I have recently joined the air cadets at the Grammar School at Leeds. I’ve been lucky enough to have already spent a day at RAF Linton on Ouse learning to fly a Grob Tutor. Earlier this month I went solo on my 14th birthday in a glider at Burn Gliding Club in North Yorkshire (making me the youngest qualified pilot in the world (for a little while at least). I’ve been learning to fly gliders for two years, and have flown over 130 flights so far and its great fun.

My ambition is to one day join the RAF and learn to fly fast jets, ultimately being

By Shown Biswas

selected to fly as part of The Red Arrows aerobatic team. Over the summer my Dad and I visited RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire. Whilst it was great to see all of the old planes of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, my dream was to get a look inside the Typhoon hanger; hopefully I will one day!


MY CANADiAN experience started properly with an intense selection weekend held in London in the Spring. All the cadets there had already passed through a brigade selection so the standard of everyone there was very high. We were subject to a variety of command tasks, together with physical tests and an interview. I came away from the selection weekend not feeling too hopeful purely due to the extremely high standard of everyone around me. However, a week later my officers told me that I would be one of the 12 cadets going on the trip; I was overjoyed. I would be spending 6 weeks in the Canadian Rockies participating in 6 disciplines of adventurous training along with approximately 200 of the top cadets from across Canada.

After a few days in London with the other British cadets, getting to know each other and receiving issued kit, we flew out to Calgary

CANADIAN ROCky

mOUNTAIN ExCHANGEand once at the base, were split into 6 platoons. Almost every part of the trip was organised through these platoons. We slept together, ate together, travelled together, did morning PT and received all our adventure training together so, by the end, it felt like I had known the members of my platoon for years. Over the following 6 weeks we participated in 5 days each of mountain biking, white water canoeing, trekking, horse riding and wilderness first aid, rock climbing and glacier trekking. Throughout all of the cycles the instruction provided by the guides was impeccable and even in the riskiest situations I felt safe.

We had to keep a diary documenting all our experiences and during each cycle we were assessed in many areas.

This led to me trying my hardest to excel in everything that we did. In addition to the adventurous

activities we also participated in cultural trips such as a trip to Calgary zoo and a local mall. Although the camp was mostly non-military, we still participated in a graduation parade and a ‘Freedom of Banff’ parade during our time there. At the end of my six weeks I felt like I had improved considerably in the outdoor activities we participated

in and my leadership skills had also improved greatly due to the frequent leadership opportunities. It was a memorable experience and I made some great friends which I intend to stay in touch with for a long time.

By Sergeant James Dahlgreen, Leeds Grammar School.

A loWER SixTh pupil from Giggleswick School is about to release a single with emerging Zulu reggae artist Ras d Bongs after the pair met on a cadet trip to KwaZulu Natal in South Africa.

Wil Richmond who is a Cadet Sergeant in the School’s Combined Cadet Force also plays guitar in the band Shrymp Inc with two other pupils from the school in addition to taking part in a variety of music societies. All pupils at the school join the combined Cadet Force in Year 10, but in Year 11 it becomes optional. Now in Lower Sixth, Wil has thrived in the Cadet Force, being presented with a prize from the Yorkshire Society as an Outstanding Cadet. The Combined Cadet Force focuses on training within the three sections, the Army, the RAF and, at Giggleswick, one of only 18 Royal Marines Detachments in the UK.

Wil chose to take part in the 5 day canoe expedition down the Tugela River. During the acclimatisation phase he had "one of the best experiences in his life" seeing and joining in with Zulu dancing on a starry night around an open fire in the Zingela Reserve. After being invited to spend the night at the chief’s musi, Wil decided it was his turn to entertain the hosts and borrowed a guitar to perform some of his music.

Ras d Bongs, an emerging Zulu reggae artist, had taken time off work to meet the visiting cadets and at the end of the evening invited Wil to his studio in Durban where he

wanted to add some African background to the track as a cross-cultural collaboration. A week later Wil was able to take a day out of his expedition and travelled over 100km to the Durban studio. Wil said of the experience “I would never have imagined when I was packing for my cadet trip that it would end with me recording a single with a Zulu Reggae artist in Durban! The last few weeks have been really exciting as Ras emails me more versions of the track and I’ve learnt so much about collaborating and world music.”

To add to the story Wil went to the recording studio three days after being in hospital with a back injury sustained

200m from the finish of his 5 day kayak expedition down the Tugela river. On his return to the UK Stray FM ran the story and an interview with Wil who then played an acoustic version of his track. If you put "Zulu" into Stray FM's search engine you will find the interview and the live recording, which has had nearly 10,000 views (by mid September), significantly more than most news stories they run. Wil and Bongs are still finalising the production of the single which they hope to complete in the next few weeks and should be available online after that. If it makes a profit a percentage will be donated to welfare projects in rural KwaZulu Natal.

YORkSHIRE SCHOOL BOY TO RELEASE SINGLE WITH REGGAE ARTIST

Autumn/WIntER 201662

You do not want to miss this once in a lifetime experience!CADET CENTRE FOR ADVENTUROUS TRAINING (CCAT)

Rjukan Norway-Ice climbing

WHATJSAT Winter Climbing Foundation (WCF)

WHEN18-25 FEBRUARY 2017

This is an introductory multi-pitch ice climbing course. Candidates will be trained and assessed for the Winter Climbing Foundation (WCF) qualification.

PRE-REQUISITESCandidates must have successfully completed, as a minimum, BRC and have WMF or equivalent winter mountaineering experience. This is not a course for beginners!

COST£450.00 This includes f lights to and from Norway, in country transport, accommodation, catering, climbing equipment, instruction and insurance.

WHERE Rjukan – Imagine a place with more than 150 frozen waterfalls all of which have easy access. Add in a local community that welcomes visiting ice climbers, dramatic World War ll history and you can only be in Rjukan, Norway.

Rjukan Gjestegård, Rjukan offers 2 person accommodation, dining facilities, lounge area drying rooms and internet access.

APPLICATIONS AND SELECTIONThe course is open to CFAV’s and senior Cadets aged 17+Applicants for this course will be selected according to logbook experience.Bids should be made through Westminster and supported by a cheque for the 50% deposit and CCAT application authorized by the unit.Applications are to be received by COP 2 Dec 16.

CCAT Course applications are to sent to: Ms Roslyn Edwards, HQ CCAT, Capel Curig TC, Betws-Y-Coed, Conwy, LL24 0DS. Tel: 01690 720156

WWW.ARmyCADETADVENTURE.CO.Uk

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