2005 Wing Review

440 cadets and 108 staff turned out for the annual wing training day at Colerne in Wiltshire, this year called ‘The Wing Review' due to the high profile visit by Air Commodore Jon Chitty Commandant Air Cadets. All 28 squadrons from the wing and detached flights were represented. Arrangements started last year, co-ordinating officer Squadron Leader Brian Higgins held regular meetings with staff in order that all went according to plan.

Cadets and staff arrived at 08:30 to put the final touches to uniform and practice. The Commandant arrived and was escorted by Wing Commander Dave Cox OC Bristol & Gloucestershire Wing, to a fanfare by a lone bugler and proceeded through a corridor of 21 squadron banners. There were two flights on parade, cadets having been taken from all squadrons, and in the centre the Corps banner carried by Corporal Stuart Wray of 2392 Thornbury Sqn. While the Commandant inspected the cadets incidental music was played by 93 Bath squadron band. The Commandant spoke to many of the cadets, one of them was Cpl Gwenifer Roskilly of 125 Cheltenham sqn. She was asked by the Commandant what she enjoyed about the Air Cadets “I like the gliding, but it has also improved my confidence and social skills” she said. Wing Commander Cox said ”the Commandant was delighted with what he saw and the extremely high standards set. He was particularly impressed with the Parade and the number of Squadron Banners was a first for him which set the tone for the day with the superb standard”.

The Commandant was accompanied by Mrs Chitty and both were keen to take part in many of the activities arranged that day, so changed into suitable attire. Shooting was the first port of call where both guests watched the cadets shoot before participating themselves gaining an impressive score. The static displays included adventure training montage of Windermere, Wing Alpine skiing, and flight simulator run by 2494 Portishead sqn. Both guests watched the banner drill competition won by 1860 Speedwell sqn, this was judged by members of the Royal British Legion, after this moving on to take part in the archery, both bursting their balloons on the target.

Other all day activities included flying at 3 AEF, Gazelle flying, go karting, army confidence course, air rifle shooting, continuity drill display, sports, Careers Information, Royal Navy, Royal Marines display team, Army, and giving demonstrations, 4626 Aeromedical evacuation sqn of the RUAF based at RAF Lyneham.

Present on the day were members of the Bristol & Gloucestershire Nijmegen team, the Commandant spoke at length about last year's march having taken part in it himself.

Flt Lt M L Thompson RAFVR(T)
Corporate Communications Officer