Hamilton was the venue for a major parade and ceremony celebrating the 84th anniversary of the Air Training Corps (ATC).
Nearly 200 cadets and volunteers from 25 squadrons across the west of Scotland, including local based in Hamilton, Lanark and Coatbridge, took part in the commemorations through the town centre and at Hamilton Old Parish Church.
They passed inspection and marched from Lamb Street to the historic church, parading their wing banner and King’s Colour, and a total of 31 adult volunteers were awarded coronation medals by Louis Munn, the Depute Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, and South Lanarkshire Provost Margaret Cooper.
Corporal Maya Cochrane of 2166 (Hamilton) squadron was the banner bearer, and said: “I’m so proud to be picked for this role to represent Hamilton squadron at the parade.
“Joining cadets was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made – I’ve experienced so many things I never thought I would be able to and have been able to improve my confidence and leadership skills, as well as skills I can use in everyday life.”
Fellow squadron members cadet warrant officer Eva McLachlan and cadet Xephyra Moos gave readings at the church service.
King Charles III medals, awarded to mark the monarch’s coronation, were presented to adult volunteers honouring their commitment and dedication “as they spend years, and in many cases decades, helping the young people of west Scotland to develop valuable skills and attributes” through their service with the ATC.
Squadrons meet on weekday evenings and attend weekend camps, with members taking part in a wide range of activities including aviation, leadership, target shooting and radio training, as well as gaining qualifications including first aid certificates and the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Air cadets travelled from areas across the west of Scotland wing including Girvan and Ardrossan to join local members at the Hamilton service.
West of Scotland wing commander Jim Haley said: “It’s amazing to think that this fine organisation has existed for 84 years, and I feel immensely proud to command these remarkable young people and their volunteer leaders. They are a credit to themselves and their families.”
The ATC was officially established on February 5 1941 – and today has 43,000 cadets aged 13 to 20, and around 12,000 adult volunteers.
Adult volunteers are currently being recruited across the west of Scotland wing; see www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets/find-a-squadron/ for more details.
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