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Combined Cadet Force

Royal Air Force

Royal Air Force

inspirational in leading the section. Suraj Shenoy took on the role of Flight Sergeant and was in charge of the RAF syllabus, as well as the logistical organisation of the section. Suraj’s commitment was obvious, and his operational control and oversight of the cadets’ experience was something I have not seen in my time in charge of the section. Archie and Suraj were supported by Flight Sergeants Sophie Hopkins and Anisa Natalia, and Sergeants Rowan Choudhry, Sukhmani Dhillon and Elena Ivanovic. A special mention must go to Panav Goyal, the CCF Bandmaster, and Suhani Khanna, the Best New Recruit within the RAF section. As my time with the CCF draws to a close, I would like to mention a few exceptionally talented cadets who have moved through the section in previous years: OMTs Simon Arends, Nikita Konovalchik, Max Arlen, and Eben Terry are always a reminder of what the CCF is all about. These cadets were unrivalled in their personal achievements within the CCF and are still considered the ideal role models in whose footsteps younger cadets should walk. Fortunately, there are many Year 10 and 11 cadets with similar attributes, and I look forward to hearing how they develop in subsequent years. Flt Lt C. Ryan

T his year was a wonderful return to normality for the RAF Section. For the first time in several years we were able to get back to doing what the section was originally set up for – offering cadets the opportunity to fly. Over 30 cadets went up in the air this year (just under half the section), which is more than the combined total for the last five years. From tutor planes to gliders, this has always been a breath taking opportunity that the cadets compete fiercely for. However, with so many opportunities available this year, the RAF section was able to start with Year 13 and work downwards through the year groups. The section was joined by an excellent array of new personnel. Flying Officer Shirley, the new Assistant Head of Outdoor

Education and an SSI from previous employment, brought huge talent and experience from his days within the Air Cadets. His enthusiasm and commitment to the section led to the pursuit of many additional flying opportunities, as well as the opportunity for cadets to attend a weekend NCO course at Merchant Taylors’ School. Civilian Instructors Mandy Heavyside, an ex-RAF servicewoman of over 20 years, and Ciara Mullane, an ex-Air Cadet, provided the section with a wealth of knowledge concerning RAF procedures and ceremonial standards. This kept the cadets polished and shipshape – to steal a word from the Navy – for the entirety of the year. The SNCOs were, as always, outstanding, and Warrant Officer Archie Stewart was

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