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LONG SERVING VOLUNTEERS ARE “A VALUE TO THE COUNTRY”

Recipients of Air Training Corps long service certificates were this week told that they are both a “value to the organisation and the country.” The comment was made by Baroness Gibson, Politician and member of the Air Cadet Council who presented certificates to each of the 37 long serving members of the Air Training Corps and Combined Cadet Force (RAF).

In her speech, which followed the certificate presentations, Baroness Gibson said: “I would like to congratulate not just today’s recipients, but also the family members who are here and have shown so much support. You have all given up valuable leisure time over the years to be involved with the ACO and through that have become role
models to young people. Without you, it is clear that the organisation could not continue.”

Above: Gerald Pritchard is handed his certificate by Baroness Gibson

Prior to Baroness Gibson’s speech, the 37 recipients were awarded their Meritorious and Long Service Certificates in a ceremony which took place at Royal Air Force College Cranwell, Lincolnshire .

Among the recipients was Gerald Prtichard, 87, who has had connections with the ACO for 46 years. After initially joining 2182 (Dorchester) Squadron as a Flight Lieutenant until his retirement, Gerald later became the squadron’s civilian committee member President. He said: “I have really enjoyed my day here at Cranwell, it has been a fantastic opportunity. My involvement with the ATC stretches over many years now and has given me the chance to do everything from visiting schools in order to promote engineering opportunities to invigilating exams for cadets.”

Below: Sqn Ldr Ken Stedman receives his certificate

Receiving a certificate for 45 years service to the ACO was Squadron Leader Ken Stedman, who is the current Officer Commanding of 611 (Watton) Volunteer Gliding School. He said: “It has been a fantastic day and it is great to be recognised for my service to the Air Cadets, which I have thoroughly enjoyed over the years. The highlight of my time with the organisation has been watching cadets feel 10 feet tall after they have been gliding. Nothing can beat the feeling of teaching a cadet to fly, particularly if they go away with a smile on their face.”

Date Last Updated : Thursday, May 29, 2008 3:04 PM

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