25 Feb 08 - Ripon Cadet Flies The Flag For British Legion
Ripon Air Cadet Richard Thornton has just been named as the official standard bearer for the Ripon Branch of the Royal British Legion. At just 16, this makes him the youngest person to hold this role in the branch's history.
Cadet Sergeant Thornton, a member of 886 (City of Ripon) Squadron Air Training Corps was nominated by the squadron when it was asked if they would be able to provide assistance to the Legion. Late last year the previous standard bearer, Mr Bill Measures, reluctantly stood down due to ill health. Branch chairman Howard Whiting had no hesitation in asking the cadets for assistance:
"I was very keen to get the youth involved. After all, they are the future of the Legion. The branch was unanimous in its decision to elect Richard as their standard bearer. Richard has carried the standard for us on a few events now, including Bill's funeral in December. He's really done us proud and we're glad to have him on board."
The standard was formally presented to Richard by Bill's widow, Mrs Gene Measures at the squadron's annual awards night, where Richard also won the trophy for Best Non-Commissioned Officer. The awards night was attended by the Mayor of Ripon, representatives from both of the city's secondary schools, service guests and the squadron's 30 cadets and their parents. Highlights of the evening included talks about some of the year's activities from the perspective of the cadets who undertook them.
In addition to training certificates, various trophies were awarded: The Academic Achievement trophy went to Cadet Corporal Hannah Wray; Bearing And Deportment to Cadet Thomas Boyle and the Initiative trophy went to Cadet Emily Turner. The trophy for Sporting Achivement went to Cadet Fiona Mingay, whilst the award for Best Attendance went to Cadet Kiera Chapman, who also picked up the trophy for Flying Achievement. The RAFA "Endeavour" trophy was awarded to Cadet Jade Lewis. Cadet Edward Riley was nomintated the Most Promising New Cadet, whilst the award for Best Cadet went to Cadet Jonathan Coates.
Commanding Officer Flight Lieutenant Chris Crebbin said "Richard has been acting as standard bearer since Remembrance Day, but we were looking for a suitable opportunity for a formal presentation. Our annual awards evening is a good chance to review the last year and celebrate some of the squadron's successes. It seemed like the perfect time."
Ripon squadron is currently recruiting new cadets aged 13 years or older and volunteer adult staff aged over 20. They meet at the Cadet Centre on Clotherholme Road every Tuesday and Friday from 7pm - 9.30pm. Anybody interested should contact the squadron on (01765) 609622 or email the commanding officer at oc.886@aircadets.org. For further information, visit the squadron web site at www.886.org.uk
