622 Volunteer Gliding Squadron based at Trenchard Lines, Upavon have become the latest RAF Air Cadets unit to receive an official unit badge, approved by the Inspector of RAF Badges at the College of Arms.
The approval of a unit badge follows the same process as other units in the RAF, with each RAF Air Cadets unit badge being unique in the whole of the RAF family. Sqn Ldr Ryan Rutlidge, Officer Commanding 622 VGS explains the process, “The journey towards securing this prestigious badge was a collaborative and meticulous process. The Squadron worked closely with the RAFAC heraldic team to ensure that the key elements we wished to feature on the badge were not only unique but also adhered to established heraldic rules, a process that required both time and flexibility. After thorough discussions, a one-page summary was produced to capture the final design, which, once agreed upon, was submitted to the RAF Inspector of Badges for approval. With approval granted, an artist created an initial pencil sketch for further review before hand-painting the finished badge.”
The culmination of the process led to the Officer Commanding accompanied by two Squadron Executive Officers being formally presented with the Squadron Badge by David Vines White, the Garter King of Arms and Inspector of RAF Badges, within His Majesty’s High Court of Chivalry at the College of Arms in London. See header photo
Currently there are close to 100 unit badges that have been awarded to RAF Air Cadets units, across Regions, Wings, Squadrons, VGSs and CCF formations. These have been awarded over the past 20 years with the help of a dedicated RAF Air Cadets heraldic team who help guide the process with RAF Ceremonial and the College of Arms.
The approved badge is official described as follows:
Blazon:
On a Roundel VERT a Fess wavy BLEU CELESTE surmounted by a Horse salient ARGENT
Motto:
PROPTER PRĮžMIUM PATIENTA
(Just reward comes from hard work)
Rationale:
The green roundel represents the green fields of Wiltshire where the squadron is located with a blue fess for the River Avon.
The horse alludes to the many white horses found carved into the underlying chalk of Wiltshire and it is shown in a leaping position to suggest action, endeavour, and the resolution of purpose from all on the squadron.
The Squadron will be unveiling the badge to the whole unit at a dinner in December. Sqn Ldr Rutlidge expressed his pride in the award of the badge,
“We are truly honoured to have been awarded a badge officially approved by the Inspector of RAF Badges, a distinction that not only recognises our Squadron’s enduring commitment and service, but also firmly cements our place in the rich history of the Royal Air Force. This emblem stands as a proud testament to our collective efforts and achievements over the years, serving as a lasting symbol of our heritage and the values we uphold. Commissioned to mark the Squadron’s 80th anniversary, this badge is particularly meaningful, representing both a significant milestone and our enduring legacy. It is a privilege to know that our Squadron will be represented for future generations, reflecting both our tradition and our ongoing dedication.”