The London Wing Contingent Commanded by Squadron Leader Rajen Patel RAFVR(T)

The Service was a thanks giving and dedication of the Air Training Corps 69th year and commenced with a parade through the Streets of London before the cadets entered the Church for the annual service.

The parade, which was commanded by Squadron Leader Raj Patel of London Wing, starts off  in Lincolns Inn Fields leading down to the church in the Strand. The Parade was accompanied to music provided by an outstanding Air Cadet band provided by Surrey Wing.

Banner Parties from the 6 Wings of the London & South East Region Air Training Corps

Cadets from 241 (Wanstead and Woodford) Squadron carried the London Wing Banner  along with representatives from each of the other 5 Wings that make up the London and South East Region of the Air Training Corps – Kent, Middlesex, Surrey, Sussex and Essex.

During the service, music was provided by a combined Region band with 2 individuals from the Region, Cadet Warrant Officer Thomas Cumming and Pilot Officer Katherine Rattle, having the honour of reading two of the lessons during the service which was conducted by Reverend Christopher Miles RAF (rtd) the Regional Chaplain and which included an entertaining guest sermon from Mr Mark Russell, Chief Executive of the Church Army.

Flight Lieutenant Leroy Smith RAFVR(T)

At the end of the service the cadets renewed their promise as members of the Air Training Corps being led by the Regional Commandant, Group Captain Les Hakin OBE RAFR.

“It was a real honour to take part in the parade and a fantastic experience to have been part of such an important occasion. I really enjoyed it.” Stated Cadet Philip Blake of 1921 (Lewisham) Squadron

London Wing Ceremonial Officer Flight Lieutenant Chris Ibbitson, who orgainised the event on the day commented “It was a great day and the cadets did a fantastic job of representing both themselves and their Wing with the highest possible standards and have every reason to feel very proud.”