Warrant Officer Steve Brown marked his final parade at 1301 (Fleetwood) Squadron in July after an incredible 57 years of service to the RAF Air Cadets.
Back in 1969, man landed on the moon, Concorde first took to the skies, and a keen 13-year-old named Steve Brown began a journey of dedication that would span almost six decades at 1301 (Fleetwood) Sqn.
It would probably be easier to list the activities Steve hasn’t done than the ones he has! Over the decades he has thrown himself into just about every opportunity the organisation has offered but most notably, he has been a familiar face in the Wing shooting team, supporting the team at all levels and helping generations of cadets find success on the range.
Steve’s proudest moment of his career was being chosen to read the Exhortation during the daily Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate. A privilege and honour that remains particularly special to him.
Over the years, he has witnessed enormous changes within the organisation yet his sense of service and commitment has never wavered. He has seen multiple generations of cadets pass through the doors of 1301 Squadron and has been a role model, a source of knowledge and experience and familiar face on parade nights, week after week, year after year. He always offers encouragement, advice, support, and of course the occasional well-timed piece of dry humour.
Very few people can say they have dedicated 57 years of their lives to a single organisation or one single squadron. Steve has been an absolute stalwart of 1301 Squadron, and his service represents not only commitment, but a genuine belief in the values of the RAF Air Cadets and in providing opportunities for young people to challenge themselves, build confidence and create lifelong memories.
Although Steve is retiring from uniformed service, we are delighted that he will be joining our Civilian Welfare Committee, allowing him to continue supporting the Squadron.
Congratulations, Steve, and thank you for your remarkable service, loyalty, friendship and dedication to 1301 Squadron, the RAF Air Cadets, and the thousands of young people whose lives you have undoubtedly helped shape.