The Royal Air Force Air Cadets were deeply saddened to hear that the former Royal Patron, His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, passed away this month.
Prince Philip was the Air Training Corps' Honorary Air Commodore-in-Chief for 63 years. Throughout his Royal Patronage, Prince Philip frequently met with cadets and took a keen interest in their activities and achievements. Always smiling and quick-witted, he was undoubtedly the ’Grandfather of the RAF Air Cadets’ and brought great fun to the role. His Royal Highness assumed his appointment following the founding Patron's death, His Majesty King George VI. Patronage was entrusted to Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge in December 2015, only the third Patron in RAF Air Cadets' 80 years.
A talented pilot, earning his Royal Air Force wings in 1953 on the Chipmunk and Harvard aircraft, and in 1962, the Air Training Corps held its 21st anniversary celebrations since its formation. His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh presented the Corps with its own Banner during a service and parade at St Clement Danes. The Honour of receiving the Banner went to Cadet Officer David Hood of 1141 (6th Edinburgh) Squadron, who was also the first Cadet recipient of the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.
.jpg)
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme has remained a significant and vital legacy featured proudly in the Cadets' training program for subsequent years. Designed for young people aged 14 and over, the Duke's awards programme since 1956 has expanded to 144 nations. Each year RAF Air Cadets attains over 3,000 bronze, silver and gold awards, harnessing over 193,000 awards in total. RAF Air Cadets has awarded more Duke of Edinburgh Awards than any other organisation. Cadets proudly wear the badges on their uniform indicating which level of Duke of Edinburgh Award they have achieved.
.jpg)
The Duke of Edinburgh Award's mission is simple - 'to inspire, guide and support young people in their self-development, and recognise their achievements’. Qualities and attributes that resonate with the Cadets.
His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh is an integral part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets' fortitude and history. Our admiration and deepest condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and The Royal Family.
