6 minute read
Air Force Cadets
The Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) is this year inducting former members and Air Force leaders into the AAFC Hall of Fame as part of the organisation's 80th Anniversary celebrations.
The milestone, which falls within Air Force’s centenary year, provides an opportunity to reflect on the history of the AAFC and the members that have been part of its success as a youthorientated organisation administered and supported by the Air Force.
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Officer Commanding 44 Wing Group Captain Robert 'Dubbo' Graham is one of the Hall of Fame inductees, acknowledging his significant contribution to the Australian community through his military service and his long association with the AAFC.
The distinguished list of inductees also includes Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin and Sir William Dean.
Group Captain Graham said the AAFC, which was known as the Air Training Corps until 2001, had played an important role in developing youth over the past 80 years.
“The experiences gained by cadets result in greater confidence and personal growth,” Group Captain Graham said.
“They take those skills with them as they pursue their career goals – inspiring them today as the leaders of tomorrow is a key role of the AAFC.
“I am proud of my association with AAFC and the work they continue to do, and I am humbled by this honour, becoming a Hall of Fame inductee in this milestone year.
“I watch on with great interest as the AAFC continues to shape and develop into the future.”
The AAFC provides opportunities for young people to develop valuable life skills and qualities including leadership, self-reliance, confidence, teamwork and communication while delivering unique experiences in aviation and military contexts.
Officer Commanding 44 Wing Group Captain Graham, has been inducted into the Australian Air Force Cadets' Hall of Fame. Defence images.
Bettina Mears
Cadets given insight into Air Force employment opportunities
A group of Ayr Cadets got the opportunity to see what life is like working in the Royal Australian Air Force.
Cadets from 109 Squadron in Ayr visited Townsville in April as part of an annual general service training camp, which gives them an insight into employment opportunities that may arise as a Royal Australian Air Force Cadet.
Over three days, the Cadets visited Aviation Fire and Rescue, 5th Aviation Regiment, Lavarack Barracks, Queensland Emergency Services, Royal Flying Doctor Service and the Rural Fire Service.
Australian Air Force Cadets executive officer and staff officer Geoffrey Strange said it was a good experience for them.
“It was an introduction into some of the jobs that are available in the (Australian) Defence Force and outside the Defence Force and it gave the Cadets an insight into some of the jobs that are available there,” Mr Strange said.
“They were able to talk to people that actually do the job. We talked to pilots at the emergency services helicopter area and crewmen, it was really worth doing,” he said.
The 109 Squadron currently has 30 Cadets and seven adult staff which focus on establishing qualities such as good citizenship, personal development, teamwork and leadership.
Mr Strange said the Cadets were excited about seeing what career options are available to them and were actively asking how to apply for the positions.
“We certainly encourage any young people over the age of 13 to join their local squadron if they want something exciting that will give them some leadership skills as well as foster mateship,” he said.
Flight Lieutenant (AAFC) Gary Martinic Australian Air Force Cadets
Launceston residents were treated to a rare sight on Sunday 21st March 2021 when a large tri-service contingent of Australian Defence Force Cadets (ADFC) marched into the city as part of a “Freedom of Entry” parade, which is a rare honour.
The ADFC was represented by all three Cadet services including members of 5 Wing Australian Air Force Cadets, Australian Navy Cadets from Training Ship ‘Tamar’, as well as Australian Army Cadets from 52 ACU (Launceston) and 67 ACU (Youngtown). They were accompanied by the Tasmanian regular Army band, which along with the cadet forces present provided spectacular sights and sounds.
Commencing at 10.30am the contingent proudly marched from Princes Square into the city of Launceston, ultimately making its way to Paterson barracks. However, before they could proceed any further they were halted briefly by the senior Tasmanian police officer, who demanded to see their ‘proof of entry to the city’ (all part of the ceremonial event). At this point the contingent was also greeted by the Launceston mayor, Albert van Zetten, who represented local government. Once the contingent leader produced the ceremonial scroll approving entry to the city, they were allowed to proceed in a spectacular display of pomp and ceremony.
The ‘Freedom of Entry’ (also known as the ‘Freedom of the City’) is a tradition steeped in rich history. Essentially, it is one of the highest honours granted by municipal authorities to military units, or individuals, in recognition of exceptional service to the city. This allows them the freedom to parade through the city, and is an affirmation of the bond between the unit and the citizenry.
In this case, it was to honour and recognise the Cadet Forces for everything they do, and it also coincides with the 80th anniversary of the Australian Air Force Cadets. One of the AAFC Staff Officers taking part in the event, Squadron Leader(AAFC) Neil MacRae, who is also the Commanding Officer of 508 Squadron and Training Officer at 5 Wing Headquarters, said that the Launceston Freedom of Entry parade was an incredibly rare honour to receive.
He said that the cadets taking part were very excited to be involved in the event, which they deemed ‘historic’ and a very special occasion, which may not happen again for a long time..
Formed with the key aims of providing training in leadership, initiative, selfreliance, discipline, and in developing Australian youth into responsible young adults with good character and citizenship qualities, the ADFC shares these aims and continues delivering them today, from it’s earliest modest origins dating back to 1866, when the first army cadet unit in Australia was established. The AAFC being formed later in 1941 whereas the Naval Cadets were founded in the early 1900s.
Irrespective of which cadet service our youth choose to serve in, the ADFC (or ‘Cadet Corps’ as they are also known) have been an institution that have touched the lives of a substantial proportion of our population over the last 150 years, and continue to do so to this day. Many go on to have successful careers not only in the ADF but also in the civilian world.
And this Freedom of Entry parade is just one small, albeit spectacular way, in which to honour and recognise their contribution within the community for everything they do.
Australian Air Force Cadets from 5 Wing, 508 Squadron, and Australian Navy and Army Cadets during the parade. Defence images. The Parade Commander with 5 Wing, 508 Squadron Cadet and Navy Cadet from ‘Tamar’ present Freedom of Entry Scroll to Acting Inspector Tasmania Police, Nathan Johnston.
