An end of an era (but start of a new one...)

Last Thursday was CWO Beth Ainsley's last parade as a cadet member of 361 squadron as she reached her 20th birthday. 

CWO Beth Ainsley (on the left) with Sgt Josh Gordon and Cpl Ellishia Clelland

Beth who has been a cadet at the squadron for six and a half years will continue to pass on her knowledge and experience as a civilian instructor at Gateshead.

CWO Ainsley pictured last Thursday with other members of the squadron

 

Carol Vorderman Is First Female Honorary Ambassador for RAF Air Cadets

Carol Vorderman has “flown in” as the new Ambassador for the RAF Air Cadets – she becomes the first female honorary Group Captain ambassador to the organisation.

Click here for the full story on the Royal Air Force website.

Remembrance Sunday 2014

On Sunday the 9th November, 361 Squadron members took part in the Remembrance Parade and Service at Gateshead War Memorial.

Members of the squadron immediately after the parade

Wreaths were laid by CWO Ainsley and Cpl Purdy on behalf of 361 Squadron and SSAFA and the salute was taken during the March Past by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear.

The 361 squadron band, led by Drum Major, Cdt Vasey, led the Parade and March-Past.

Autumn Camp - RAF Valley

37 cadets from Durham/Northumberland (including members of 361 squadron) and Central and East Yorkshire Wings attended camp at RAF Valley on Anglesey in North Wales from the 25th October to 1st November.

They took part in a wide range of activities including visiting the two resident Hawk squadrons, learning about the role of RAF Sea King Search and Rescue helicopters, and Mountain Rescue Teams, Karting and a High Ropes course.

One lucky cadet from the camp was selected for a flight in a Hawk T2, becoming the first female cadet in the Air Cadet Organisation to fly in this version of the aircraft with her exciting flight including aerobatics and taking control of the aircraft.