Sandy Cadets Celebrate ATC Sunday

On Sunday 2nd February, Air Cadets from 22 (Sandy) Squadron joined six local squadrons in a parade through Huntingdon Town Centre, to celebrate the anniversary of the forming of the Air Training Corps in 1941.

This year the parade marked the 73rd Anniversary of the forming of the Air Training Corps, and was fittingly hosted by 73 (Huntingdon) Squadron, who are celebrating their 50th Anniversary this year.

The parade had over 150 cadets and staff from the seven Squadrons in the Western Sector of Bedfordshire & Cambridgeshire Wing, from Sandy, Huntingdon, Bedford, Biggleswade, Oakley, St Neots, Bassingbourn and Cambourne.

The parade formed up and marching through Huntingdon High Street to the Market Square, led by the band of 2500 (St Neots) Squadron and accompanied by the banners of the seven Squadrons on parade, as well as the Beds & Cambs wing banner. Cadet Flight Sergeant Laura Dorrell (17) this year carried the banner on behalf of 22 (Sandy) Squadron.

An inspection took place at the Market Square, followed by a service held at All Saints Church, conducted by Roger Cresswell, chaplain at 73 (Huntingdon) Squadron.

After the service, the parade concluded with a march past along the High Street, with the salute being taken by Bedfordshire & Cambridgeshire Wing Officer Commanding, Wing Commander Antony Kelly RAF VR(T), alongside the Deputy Mayor of Huntingdon, Councillor Tanya Forster.

Flying Officer Robert Kitchener RAF VR(T), Officer-In-Command 22 (Sandy) Squadron commented, "It was a warming sight to see the cadets of 22 (Sandy) Squadron and the Western Sector out in true spectacle celebrating the 73rd Birthday of the Air Training Corps. The atmosphere and poignancy of the day was not lost on anyone - and it was great to see the public display of support for the Air Cadets".