Deputy Mayor Supports Cadet Awards Presentation

The Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex Mr Peter Field and the Deputy Mayor of Hailsham, Councillor Amanda O’Rawe were guests of honour at 249 Hailsham The Millennium Squadron’s Annual Awards Presentation Evening on Thursday [2 July], to personally hand out some of the accolades to cadets who have worked hard to achieve goals throughout the past year.

Other guests of honour included Wing Commander Kevin Tucker, the officer commanding the Sussex Wing, representatives the Royal Air Forces Association Hailsham branch, Councillor Colin Belsey (East Sussex County Council) and cadets’ parents. Squadron Commanding Officer Flight Officer Craig Thomson hosted the presentation.

Cadets were presented with a wide range of awards, including those for Most Improved Cadet, the Treasures Cup for Effort, Best Flight, Best Attendance, the Venom Aviation Shield, shooting trophies, trophies for community service and those for sport and fundraising activities.

Deputy Mayor Councillor Amanda O’Rawe presented presented the trophy for Best Sports Flight to Vampire Flight and the award for Most Improved Cadet, which went to Cadet L. Smith.

Councillor O’Rawe commended award winners, parents and everyone involved in the Squadron: “I was delighted to be invited along to present the cadets with their certificates of achievement, and I was particularly pleased to have the opportunity to speak with the cadets and hear about the hard work that helped them achieve these prestigious awards.”

“The Air Training Corps is such a valuable organisation to have in the local community, providing worthwhile and exciting opportunities for young people and preparing them for later in life.”

“I wish to pass on my congratulations to all the cadets who were presented with certificates at the award ceremony. The cadets have been outstanding again this year and the 249 Hailsham Millennium Squadron is always on top form, giving 100%. Our Town should be so proud of these young people.”

In his opening speech, Squadron Commanding Officer Flight Lieutenant Craig Thomson said: “The cadets have worked hard over the last year and thoroughly deserve the awards they have received. They are a wonderful group of young people and a pleasure to work with.”

“My staff and I feel honored to know and work with each and every one of them. He also commended the staff and Civilian committee for all their hard work and dedication to the squadron.”