Three hundred and thirty nine air cadets and adult volunteers put on their walking boots and represented Royal Air Force Air Cadets (RAFAC) at the annual two day Royal Air Force Walking and Road Marching Association (RAFWARMA) event.
Hosted by RAF Cosford, the marchers, from 12 Wings across RAFAC, endured rain, strong winds and bursts of sunshine, none of which put them off from walking their allocated 20km or 40km route.
Together with Regulars, Reserves, University Air Squadrons, Army Air Corps and the Army Cadets, the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, also marched alongside a small handful of civilian and foreign military participants.
Cadet Sergeant Scott, 93 (City of Bath) Squadron, said: “This was my first time here at the RAFA WARMA march and I have really enjoyed it. I have loved the morale and the training leading up the event has been just fantastic.”
Commandant Air Cadets, Air Commodore Tony Keeling, as president of WARMA, took the salute with the arriving teams on the second day. Air Commodore Keeling said: “There were a good numbers of experienced road marchers, but also many first time participants, especially those from the Cadet Forces - I have huge admiration for the determination, resilience, individual and team spirit displayed by everyone. Congratulations on your success.”
The two day event concluded with awards and the Best ATC team went to Bristol & Gloucestershire Wing. Trent Wing took the Yogi Adams Award for the ATC team who showed the most determination, grit and enthusiasm.
The Royal Air Force Walking and Road Marching Association (RAFWARMA) was formed on 1 April 1980 with the aim of promoting the sport of walking - of all types - within the Royal Air Force and it's sister services.