Cadets, staff, volunteers, alumni and supporters of 1454 (Harrow) Squadron proudly took part in a Freedom of Entry Parade through Harrow Town Centre, celebrating both the squadron’s distinguished history and 85 years of continuous service to the local community.
The Freedom of the Borough is the highest civic honour Harrow Council can bestow. 1454 (Harrow) Squadron was granted the honour in 2014 in recognition of its outstanding continuous service to the Harrow area, acknowledging decades of youth development, community service and the dedication of generations of volunteers who have shaped young people across the borough.
Founded in 1941 as 1454 Harrow South Squadron, the unit is today the oldest continuously operating squadron in the London Borough of Harrow. Over the decades, the squadron has built a proud reputation for leadership, citizenship and excellence, with achievements including National Foot Drill Champions, producing the best cadet in the United Kingdom, supporting the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, and providing life-changing opportunities to thousands of young people.
The parade was attended by The Worshipful the Mayor of Harrow, Councillor Anjana Patel and Wing Commander Tarandeep Bhachoo RAFAC, Officer Commanding Middlesex Wing, and Squadron President Hon Capt Durdana Ansari OBE. Also in attendance was the Master of the Worshipful Company of Poulters, who recently have become affiliated to the Squadron, reflecting the wide civic and community support for the occasion.
Proceedings began at Harrow War Memorial as the parade marched in from Greenhill Way before being formally granted permission to exercise the Freedom of Entry. The Mayor addressed those assembled, recognising the contribution made by organisations holding the Freedom and the positive role they continue to play within the borough.
A formal inspection of the parade followed, conducted by the Mayor, Wing Commander Tarandeep Bhachoo and distinguished guests.
One of the defining moments of the day was the presentation of the new 1454 (Harrow) Squadron Standard. Following an introduction by Wg Cdr Bhachoo, the Standard was blessed by Reverend Michael Child, Chaplain of Essex Wing Air Training Corps, before being formally presented to the squadron.
The new Standard proudly bears the Squadron's new Badge and the Harrow crest on its colours, a rare and significant distinction recognising the squadron’s status as recipients of the Freedom of the Borough. The Standard was then trooped before the parade prior to the playing of the National Anthem by the Middlesex Wing Band.
Following the Act of Loyalty to the Crown and reaffirmation of commitment to the London Borough of Harrow, the parade reformed for the ceremonial march past along Station Road with drums beating, colours flying and heads held high.
Flight Lieutenant Jordy Black, Officer Commanding 1454 (Harrow) Squadron, said:
“This parade is an enormous honour for the squadron and recognises the commitment and achievements of generations of cadets and volunteers. For 85 years, the squadron has provided opportunities that develop confidence, leadership and teamwork in young people across Harrow.
To exercise the Freedom of the Borough is a proud and historic moment for everyone connected with 1454 Squadron, and we are grateful for the continued support from the community and our partner organisations.”
Flight Lieutenant Jordy Black
Officer Commanding 1454 (Harrow) Squadron
Today, the squadron continues to support more than 100 cadets, offering opportunities in aviation, cyber, space, leadership, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, sport, music, adventure training and community service.
The Freedom of Entry Parade was not simply a celebration of the squadron’s proud past. It was a clear statement that 1454 (Harrow) Squadron remains a thriving and valuable part of Harrow’s future, continuing to inspire the next generation of citizens and leaders.