1475 (Dulwich) Squadron have lived up to their moto, Certamus Vincere, meaning “strive to win” after they won the 2010 Sir Alan Lees Trophy; awarded to the best squadron in the Air Training Corps.

The highly coveted trophy, which was originally presented to the ATC in 1949 by Air Marshal Sir Alan Lees, is awarded annually to the ATC’s top squadron following close judging by the head of the organisation, Commandant Air Cadets. With more than 1000 squadrons to choose from, it is by no means an enviable task!

The fantastic achievement by 1475 Squadron comes after a dramatic rise in cadet numbers over the last two years. It is also a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Commanding Officer, Squadron Leader Kevin Mehmet, who celebrated 25 years in command of the Squadron in March 2010.

Squadron Leader Mehmet said: “This really is an outstanding achievement and I am extremely proud of the cadets helped bring the Lees Trophy to Dulwich. It is a testimony to their hard work and commitment to serve their community.

“However, none of this could be possible without the dedication of the voluntary staff staff that give up their time to lead, train, and develop the young male and female cadets. The life skills which they help teach help the cadets become responsible citizens within society. I am very grateful to the staff on the squadron, especially the deputy Squadron Commander, Flight Lieutenant Matthew Impey, for his invaluable contribution.”

Commandant Air Cadets, Air Commodore Barbara Cooper sent the following message to all of the squadrons who participated in this year’s competition:

"I have just concluded my inspections of the squadrons put forward for the Lees/Morris Trophies to be presented in this our "Cadet 150" year. This has been the perfect opportunity for me to see "the best of the best" so early on in my appointment as Commandant and I have been hugely impressed by the dedication of adult staff and cadets alike in a broad range of activities.

“To that end 423 (Elgin), 1475 (Dulwich), 126 (City of Derby), 1036 (Bury), 1444 (Brownhills) and 93 (City of Bath) Squadrons are to be heartedly congratulated for having been selected to represent their respective Regions.

“Reaching a decision has not been easy. You are all winners in my eyes and I am very proud of you. However, two trophies and six squadrons means that I have to make a choice and I am delighted to award the Lees Trophy to 1475 (Dulwich) Squadron and the Morris Trophy to 126 (City of Derby) Squadron. Well done to you all."

Wing Commander Sylvie Silver, Officer Commanding London Wing Air Cadets, concluded: “I am unbelievably proud of this wonderful achievement by the cadets and staff of 1475 (Dulwich) Squadron. They have worked extremely hard to achieve the standards required to win the Sir Alan Lees Trophy. The squadron is a reflection of the work and dedication shown by all of the staff across London who volunteer their time to help our young people.”

*All images taken by David Griffiths