Category: News

We had eight brilliant acts take to the stage at our talent show on Saturday, with everything from singers to creative makers. Every performer brought their best and really made it feel like anyone could win. After a tough competition and an even tougher vote, Southend’s Most Talented Cadet was crowned as Cpl Solomon with…

Yesterday, we organised an exciting visit to IWM Duxford for a group of our cadets, who were joined on the day by cadets from 1476 (Rayleigh) Squadron. The group spent the day exploring the museum’s many hangars and learning about a wide range of historic aircraft and their roles in aviation history. It was a…

As a result of their success at the Inter Squadron Competition, six of our cadets were selected to represent Essex Wing at the Central and East Region Cross Country Competition at RAF Cranwell yesterday. Our cadets made up a quarter of the Wing team. Well done to all who took part and contributed to the…

On Friday evening, our Civilian Committee held its Annual General Meeting. We were sad to say goodbye to two long-standing and highly valued members who have stepped down after many years of exceptional service: our Secretary, Kevin Allen, and our Deputy Chair, Jennifer Byford. Both have shown outstanding dedication to the Squadron, consistently going above…

Is it too early to talk about the C word? With the iconic John Lewis and Coca-Cola adverts already making their festive debut on TV (and yes, other department stores and soft drinks are available), we’re officially giving ourselves permission to feel Christmassy. On Sunday, ten enthusiastic cadets proudly represented the squadron at Eastwood Community…

This morning, we were honoured to take part in the City Remembrance Parade at the Southend Cenotaph. The event brought together veterans, regular forces, cadets, youth organisations, dignitaries, and members of the community, with a large crowd gathering to pay their respects despite a touch of rain. Our Squadron Band led the parade and later…

Nineteen of our cadets were back out in Southend High Street this morning supporting the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. It was a bright, crisp November morning and the high street was already busy with early shoppers, giving the cadets plenty of opportunities to sell poppies. They sold a large number throughout the morning, and…

This morning, some of our cadets were out in Southend High Street proudly supporting the Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal. The cadets spent several hours engaging with members of the public, selling poppies, and helping to raise vital funds for veterans and their families. Despite the chilly weather, the cadets’ enthusiasm and dedication shone…

Eight cadets from the Squadron took to the skies on Saturday for gliding induction flights at RAF Kenley. Each cadet enjoyed two flights at this historic airfield. The VGS staff were highly impressed with our cadets’ enthusiasm and willingness to get involved in gliding operations, even through the blustery rain showers. Several cadets also received…

This morning, we were delighted to welcome 20 brand new cadets to the Squadron, with more due to join us on Friday. They received a warm introduction from our Officer Commanding before learning about what to expect as members of the Squadron. The session also included some team-building activities, giving them a chance to get…