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| | Latest News | Unit Allocations | Weather Forecast |Upcoming Events |Archived News | Air League | |
Archived News (2006/5/4)
| Date | Topic Article |
| 01/12/06 | CONGRATULATIONS - To the following staff who have achieved the following qualifications over the last couple of months. Fg Off Hockin - Promotion to Flt Lt |
| 10/09/06 | FAREWELL - Next weekend will be the last attendance for Civilian Gliding Instructor Marcus Adcock who is off to university to begin a course of study. We wish Marcus all the best with his future studies and career and hope he is able to continue flying at a VGS closer to his university.
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| 10/09/06 | CONGRATULATIONS - To Cadets Goodwin and Phillips on successful completion of their Advanced Glider Training. Both cadets have now been awarded Gold AGT Wings and appointed officially as Flight Staff Cadets with the Squadron.
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| 08/09/06 | CONGRATULATIONS - To Pilot Officer Paul Shanes on successful completion of the B Category Instructors Course at Air Cadets Central Gliding School.
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| 01/08/06 | PROMOTION - Congratulations to CGI Howard Mascall on appointment to the rank of Pilot Officer.
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| 10/07/06 | CONGRATULATIONS - To CGI Ian Youd on successful completion of his C Category Instructor qualification at Air Cadet Central Gliding School recently. Ian is now qualified to train Gliding Scholarship trainees up to solo standard.
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| 01/06/06 | SAD NEWS - The Squadron was saddened to learn that Flt Lt George Young, a member of ACCGS at RAF Syerston passed away this month. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. George was an excellent instructor, colleague and friend to many of our own instructors and he will be surely missed. |
| 01/06/06 | NEW APPOINTMENTS - Effective
immediately
FSC Sam Kingdon is appointed as the Squadrons Senior Flight Staff Cadet with FSC Alex Dacre as his deputy. Former FSCs Whyatt and Adcock are now appointed as Civilian Gliding Instructors on the squadron. |
| 01/06/06 | CONGRATULATIONS - To Sqn Ldr Hugh Pierce RAF and CGI James Flory on successful completion of their C Category Instructor qualifications at Air Cadet Central Gliding School recently. Hugh and James are now qualified to train Gliding Scholarship trainees up to solo standard.
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| 01/06/06 | WELCOME BACK - Today the Squadron is pleased to welcome Sqn Ldr Ches Ledster RAF VR(T) (Rtd) back to the Squadron in his new Ground Role. Sqn Ldr Ledster is the former Officer Commanding.
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| 01/06/06 | CONGRATULATIONS - To Flight Staff Cadet Sam Kingdon on successful completion of his Grade 2 Pilot qualification. Sam will now progress towards achieving his Grade 1 Pilot rating. |
| 01/06/06 | PROMOTION - Effective 1st June 2006 Fg Off Dave Howells RAF VR(T) is promoted to the rank of Flight Lieutenant. |
| 01/06/06 | CONGRATULATIONS - To Flight Staff Cadet Christopher Gorton on successful completion of his Advanced Glider Training. Chris will now progress onto the Graded Pilot Syllabus of training.
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| 28/05/06 | CHANGE OF TITLE - To reflect MoD wide changes the following positions have been retitled at all Squadrons. Technical Officers (Tech Off) to Engineering Officers (Eng Off) Corporate Communications Officers (CCO) to Media & Communications Officers (MCO) |
| 28/05/06 | NEW APPOINTMENTS - The following staff appointments have been made effective 1st June 2006. Fg Off Dave Howells RAF VR(T) - Chief Flying Instructor |
| 15/05/06 | ANNUAL DINNER & GUEST NIGHT - The dates have now been confirmed for the next annual dinner and guest night. The event will take place on the evening of the 20th January 2007 at the Officers' Mess RMB Chivenor. Further details will be confirmed nearer the time. |
| 14/05/06 | CONGRATULATIONS - To Flight Staff Cadet Alex Dacre on successful completion of his Advanced Glider Training. Alex will now progress onto the Graded Pilot Syllabus of training.
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| 30/04/06 | CONGRATULATIONS - Go to the Flight Staff Cadet's whose efforts and achievements over the past two years have resulted in the Squadron winning the Breitling Trophy for outstanding contributions to youth development two years in succession. |
| 25/04/06 | CONGRATULATIONS - To Flight Staff Cadet Chris Gorton ATC on his promotion to the rank of Instructor Cadet Sergeant.
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| 20/04/06 | AT LONG LAST - Some of the photos from this years annual dinner and presentation evening have been uploaded to the Gallery section. |
| 20/04/06 | CONGRATULATIONS - To all of the trainees who all passed their Gliding Scholarships over the April Continuous Course with Silver Wings. The course photo has been uploaded in the Gallery in the Courses section. |
| 10/04/06 | WELCOME - To the following new members of staff who join the Squadron this month. Officer Cadet Stuart Gooch RAF |
| 02/04/06 | INSTRUCTOR CADETS - Effective immediatly all instructor cadets are to wear new rank tapes signifying their status as 'instructors' with the text INSTRUCTOR CADET at the foot of their rank slide. The original white bars above the rank slides are no longer to be worn.
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| 28/03/06 | 631 VG SQN RELOCATES & CONVERTS - 631 Volunteer Gliding Squadron (RAF Sealand) will relocate to RAF Woodvale wef 01 Apr 2006. The relocation will also see the units conversion from Vigilant's to Vikings. |
| 22/03/06 | FAREWELL - Today marks the last day of CGI Richard Steer's appointment with 624 VG Squadron. Despite only being a member of staff for a year Richard has attended the Squadron almost every weekend assisting with operations and training to gain the award of G1. He will be missed by all the staff and we wish him luck with his future aviation career. |
| 15/02/06 | CHANGE OF APPOINTMENT - Effective immediatly Flt Lt Phil Newcombe RAF VR(T) assumes the role of Wing Gliding Liaison Officer for Plymouth & Cornwall Wing ATC. All Squadrons within Plymouth & Cornwall affilliated to 624 VGS should direct Gliding related issues to Flt Lt Newcombe via the details on our contact page. |
| 28/01/06 | NEW RESPONSIBILITIES - Effective immediatly the following staff are now responsible for the areas listed. |
| 28/01/06 | FAREWELL... - Today the Squadron was saddened to learn that Civilian Gliding Instructor Roger Burge is resigning from the Squadron with immediate effect. Roger has been a member of 624 VGS for many years and will be missed by all the staff and cadets on the unit. His unique sense of humour and infamous 'beastings' when it came to training staff in the more vital aspects of flight will be remembered for years to come.
Roger is hoping (now that he has his weekends back) to spend more time with the family and of course his new venture – the microlight. We have been assured that he will keep in touch with the unit and we look forward to hearing him on frequency when he passes through Chivenor. Good Luck Roger – from all the staff at 624! |
| 10/01/06 | NEW JOINING INSTRUCTIONS NOW AVAILABLE - New GIC and GS Joining Instructions are now available for download from the Courses Section of the website. These new documents will also be distributed in hard copy to all Squadrons, Flights and Contingents in the near future. |
| 01/01/06 | NEW SATURDAY FLIGHT COMMANDER - Flt Lt Matt Haywood RAF VR(T) assumes the post of Saturday Flight Commander wef 7 Jan 06. |
| 26/12/05 | NEW FOR 2006 - This website now contains a full list of all trainees currently waiting in the 'GS Pool' at any given time. This list can be accessed via the link on the courses page. As well as this new feature for cadets, staff now have an interactive online attendance calendar which can be accessed and used to notify Flight Commanders and other staff of planned absences from the Squadron. This feature can be accessed via the link in the staff section. Passwords will be issued to all staff before January 2006. |
| 20/12/05 | SQUADRON CLOSURE - All staff and trainees should be aware that 624 VG Sqn will be closed over the following dates. 24 - 25 Dec 05 and 1 Jan 06. The unit will reopen as usual on 7 Jan 06. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. |
| 10/12/05 | RAF FLIGHT SAFETY AWARD FOR CADET - Cadet Hannah Best, a 17 year old Air Cadet with 2174 (Estover) Squadron in Plymouth Cornwall Wing, has been awarded the Royal Air Force Flight Safety Award.
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| 24/11/05 | MOD F700 CONVERGANCE TRAINING - All Executive Officers and Supervisors are asked to attend the training session to be held at 0930hrs Saturday 3 December 2005 at the VG Sqn HQ. Initially a 45 min power point presentation will be given followed by 45 mins consolidation exercise. For more information please speak to the CO. |
| 23/11/05 | WET WEATHER DAYS - A gentle reminder to all senior instructors that Exercise Lectures / Crib Cards should be produced and ready for use during wet weather days. For more information please speak to the CFI.
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| 20/11/05 | CONGRATULATIONS - To Flight Staff Cadet Chris Beale on successful completion of his Advanced Glider Training. Chris will now progress onto the Graded Pilot Syllabus of training.
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| 20/11/05 | DINING IN NIGHT - The date for this years annual dining in night and special guest speakers have now been confirmed for more information please contact Fg Off Howells. |
| 19/11/05 | CONGRATULATIONS - To Civilian Gliding Instructor Howard Mascall who successfully completed his Grade 1 Pilot assessment today. Howard is now cleared to fly GIC trainees. Well done!
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| 11/11/05 | REMEMBRANCE - As a mark of respect to all those who lost their lives during the war 624 VG Sqn conducted a 2 Minutes silence at 1100hrs today with all aircraft grounded for the duration of the silence. "We will remember them."
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| 06/11/05 | FAREWELL - This month one of our Civilian Gliding Instructors leaves us to move onwards and upwards with his flying training abroad. All the staff at 624 VG Sqn wish James Gedling the very best of luck with his new career plans and want to thank him for his hard work and support over the last five years of his appointment with 624 VG Sqn. In particular James's character has been key in building and sustaining morale on the Squadron and he will be surely missed. Good luck James. |
| 03/11/05 | CHIVENORS BIGGEST FIREWORKS DISPLAY YET! - To celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Gunpowder plot Barnstaple Round Table and RMB Chivenor are teaming up to bring the Biggest Bonfire and Fireworks display ever seen in the area, and all for charity. The center piece bonfire, towering 40ft above the crowd with a giant Guy Fawkes effigy and 100 ft long Houses of Parliament will provide a stunning start to the evening followed by £5000 of professionally detonated fireworks synchronized to music. The whole show will be compered by the Lantern FM Roadshow and fronted by a host of familiar names. Visit the official website below for more information.
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| 03/11/05 | VG SQN CLOSURE - All staff and trainees currently on course please note the the squadron will be closed over the period of 4-5 November 2005 for the stations annual Bonfire Night & Fireworks. |
| 20/10/05 | WELL DONE - To FSC Marcus Adcock who has achieved his Grade 1 Pilot Qualification and is now qualified to fly GIC trainees.
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| 10/10/05 | CONGRATULATIONS - To Fg Off Dan Reece RAF VR(T) on gaining his fATPL. |
| 08/10/05 | NEW SENIOR FSC APPOINTED - Inst Cdt FS Craig Whyatt ATC has been appointed as the new Senior Flight Staff Cadet wef 08.10.05 as Inst Cdt Sgt Craig Treasure ATC leaves cadet service. |
| 25/09/05 | AWARDS & PROMOTIONS - There have been a host of awards and category promotions over the last month throughout the Squadron. Please visit the staff hierarchy page to see the current structure. |
| 14/08/05 | CHANGE OF COMMAND - The baton of command has been handed over at Headquarters Air Cadets as a new Commandant takes up his post. Air Commodore David Harrison takes over this month from Air Commodore John Chitty, who is retiring from the RAF. Air Commodore Harrison comes to the Air Cadet Organisation after spending six months as Air Component Commander of RAF forces deployed on operations in Iraq , the Gulf and Afghanistan , based in Qatar . Previously, he was Station Commander at RAF Linton on Ouse, with over 3,500 fast jet flying hours in Phantoms and Tornado F3s. Unusually, Air Commodore Harrison is a qualified weapons instructor as well as a qualified flying instructor. He said of his new role: “I am very pleased to have been appointed Commandant of the Air Cadets and because of my background I am really keen to keep the ‘Air’ part right at the forefront of the organisation. My aim is to continue driving forward the very good initiatives already in place, especially those concerning the many volunteers who are the backbone of the organisation and whose efforts must be respected and rewarded. I will of course be open to new ideas that will help keep the work of the organisation vibrant.” Air Commodore Harrison has a son of 19 who is at university and a 16 year old daughter, and in his spare time he enjoys walking, skiing, music, gardening and cooking. Air Commodore Chitty said: “For me, the last three years as Commandant have been quite incredible; the sheer diversity of activities, of staff, of cadets, of achievement, of individual ambitions and aspirations and ability and of the organization itself; the sheer commitment of all concerned and of all ages; the sheer size of the task and yet the simple acceptance of the work entailed matched by the enthusiasm and willingness to complete it; and last, but by no means least, the sheer strength of friendship and comradeship that exists at all levels in the Corps, from the youngest cadet to the oldest volunteer.” He concluded: “It has been a great privilege to be Commandant Air Cadets. I firmly believe that the Air Cadet Organisation has achieved a great deal and continues to do so in forcefully and actively achieving its three core aims……….I offer all air cadets the very best of luck in whatever you aspire to achieve, and pass on my thanks to all of you who are working at regional, wing or squadron level and in whatever function, be it uniformed or not – please do keep up the good work as it is of vital importance. My best wishes go to my successor who brings with him recent operational and command experience and who I am sure will bring his own style of commitment and involvement to the appointment.”
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| 13/08/05 | WELL DONE - To FSC Markus Adcock who successfully completed his Microlight Scholarship last week.
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| 06/08/05 | CONGRATULATIONS - To our newest Grade 1 Pilot. FSC Craig Whyatt who passed his G1 assessment today. Craig is now qualified to fly cadet trainees on Gliding Induction Course sorties.
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| 06/08/05 | WELL DONE - To FSC Sam Kingdon who completed his Advanced Glider Training Today. Sam will now go on to train for his G2 qualification.
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| 01/08/05 | NEW APPOINTMENT - Congratulations to Cadet Warrant Officer Paul Shanes ATC who received official confirmation of his appointment as an officer in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (Training) Branch wef 11 July 2005. Paul now holds the rank of Pilot Officer RAF VR(T).
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| 01/08/05 | CHANGE OF APPOINTMENT - All ATC & CCF Squadrons should be aware that the Wing Gliding Liaison Officer has now changed from Flt Lt M Haywood RAFVR(T) to Fg Off Allan Benson RAFVR(T) of 20 (Bideford) Squadron ATC. |
| 31/07/05 | CONGRATULATIONS - To both CGI James Flory & CGI Ian Youd on completing their Advanced Glider Training this weekend.
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| 29/07/05 | WELL DONE - To FSC Sam Kingdon who successfully completed his first solo today. Sam now moves on to the AGT syllabus.
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| 29/07/05 | GIC DAY A SUCCESS
- The Devon & Somerset Wing GIC Day which was planned
for this Friday to attempt to fly cadets from surrounding squadrons
which had recently had allocations cancelled was a success with around
20 cadets completing GICs from 326 (Hartland), 722 (Chivenor), 1079
(Tiverton) & 2469 (Exeter St. Thomas) Squadrons. Thanks to all
the staff who helped out. |
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| 20/07/05 | WELL DONE - To
CGI Howard Mascall on gaining his G2 Qualification this weekend. |
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| 17/07/05 | CONGRATULATIONS - Go to Fg Off Dave Howells on achieving his A2 Category Instruction rating at ACCGS last week. Fg Off Howells is now cleared to send trainees on their first solo flight and is regarded as an above average instructor.
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| 01/07/05 | VGS CLOSURE - All staff and cadets currently on course at Chivenor should be aware that the VGS will be closed on Sunday 3rd July 2005 due to Ladies Driving Day on the airfield. The VGS will recommence operations as usual Saturday 9th July 2005.
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| 01/07/05 | CONGRATULATIONS - Go to CGI Chris Puxley on achieving his C Category Instruction rating at ACCGS last week. After completing his local site checks Chris will be qualified to teach Gliding Scholarship Trainees to Solo Level.
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| 26/06/05 | WELL
DONE - To FSC Richard Steer who recieved confirmation of
his Civilian Gliding Instructor appointment today as well as completing
his 5 AGT solo circuits.
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| 23/06/05 | FATHER AND SON
TEAM WIN THE CUP - A father and son team have won the prestigious
Air League Challenge Cup Competition.
Civilian Gliding Instructor Ieuan Harries, along with father, Civilian Gliding Instructor Dyfrig Harries, competed in the event at the Air Cadet Central Gliding School (ACCGS) at RAF Syerston. It is held annually ACCGS between teams from either Vigilant or Viking-equipped Volunteer Gliding Schools (VGS). This year, teams of two instructors from nine Vigilant-equipped VGSs met at ACCGSto compete in the competition, which comprised five days of flying and ground tests. These included navigation exercises and precision flying. Other activities included a 'spot the defects' task, on an aircraft that had been specially prepared with a number of faults. A handicapping system was utilized to ensure that more experienced instructors did not have an advantage over the more junior competitors. Overall, a total of 5770 points were available to the competitors but at the end of the week less than 230 points separated 1st and 3rd places. But with a total of 5147 it was the Harries from 636 VGS which claimed the title. Second with 644 VGS with 5029; third were 616 VGS with 4918. The Air League Challenge Cup was presented by Stephen Cochrane Esq FRAeS, an Air League Council member. Dyfrig has been a volunteer with 636 VGS for five years and Ieuan joined 636 as a Flight Staff Cadet after completing his first solo flight on the school. The performance of the team was especially notable as 636 VGS only converted to the Vigilant motorglider early last year.
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| 23/06/05 | SUPERB EFFORT
FROM STEVEN - Cadet Steven Mason has taken his first ghosted
solo after earning his Blue Wings recently.His instructor has requested
he attends 637 Volunteer Gliding School at Little Rissington at weekends
as he feels he is able to obtain his Silver Wings and go solo. Nothing
unusual in that for a cadet, except to say that Steven is in a wheel
chair 85 per cent of the time.
Initially the VGS staff were worried about how Steven would cope due to the physically demanding course which is tough on able bodied cadets. But the enthusiasm, drive and determination Steven has shown meant he coped with everything. Steven's next big event will see him travel to the USA to represent England in the 100m 200m and 400m wheelchair races.
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| 17/06/05 | UPDATES - Have been made to the unit allocations page so that all CCF units can also now check their GIC allocations for the forthcoming year. Over the next week the current Gliding Scholarship Trainee Pool will be published under the news section to allow all potential GS trainees to see how far away their course is.
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| 12/06/05 | BARNSTAPLE BYPASS BEGINS - Construction of the Barnstaple Western Bypass has begun. For details of plans and progress of the project which is due to be completed in Spring 2007 click here. Shown below is a computer generated image of the proposed bridge which forms a major segment of the bypass.
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| 11/06/05 | FIRST SOLO - Congratulations to FSC Richard Steer on completing his first solo today. On commenting his Instructor Fg Off Dan Reece said (in true CFI style) "Rich did really good!" Well done!
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| 10/06/05 | 636 VGS TAKE
THE AIR LEAGUE TROPHY! Unfortunatly our team didnt do very
well in this years competition coming 8th out of 9 teams. That will
teach us to send a C Cat with a PPL (10% handicap) in place of a
G1. Well done to 636 Swansea VGS who won the competition - not bad
considering they only converted from Vikings to Vigilants around
a year ago.
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| 10/06/05 | 626 VGS HOSTS CADETS FROM
DOWN UNDER... There are quite a few fundamental differences between the two Corps. In Australia cadets have to pay separately for flying, gliding and shooting. Non-commissioned officer courses last two weeks and have to be passed before becoming an NCO. "The cadets from Australia are professional, polite and willing to work. It was a pleasure having them here. It was a successful visit and I look forward to future visits from them." - Flt Lt Kevin Hemsil of 2174 (Estover) Squadron (Host for the visit).
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| 09/06/05 | WOOLACOMBE HOSTS UK NATIONAL SANDCASTLE COMPETITION - This year sees the return of the UK's National Sand Castle Competition. Clubs, groups and businesses alike have the chance to take part and build a sand castle and have a fun day at the same time.
The Lantern FM Road show will also be at the beach keeping competitors and spectators going by playing Today's Best Mix across Woolacombe Beach all day. The event takes place Sunday 10th July from 11am.
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| 08/06/05 | 622 VGS LAUNCH
SITE - The Upavon based VGS now has its own website. Click
here to visit their site. |
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| 07/06/05 | APPOINTMENT
OF NEW SENIOR FSC - With the number of staff cadets at
Chivenor growing and some of the older hands moving on to adult
staff it has become necessary to appoint a new Senior Flight Staff
Cadet. Congratulations to Inst Cdt Sgt Craig Treasure ATC on his
new appointment. |
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| 06/06/05 | 612 VGS COMES
OF AGE... The three Vigilant motorised gliders travelled right across southern England visiting many of their previous homes. Starting from their current base in Abingdon the trio flew to White Waltham in Berkshire, the West London Aero Club, to fly three lucky Air Cadets. Next it was off to RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire, home to Royal Air Force basic training, in blustery conditions before turning north to RAF Henlow, performing a flypast of the Imperial War Museum’s Duxford airfield and then flying to the Army Air Corps base at Wattisham, flying overhead at the now disused Ipswich Airfield before completing their journey at RAF Cranwell. Article adapted from
Air Cadet South
West Region Headquarters Online |
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| 02/06/05 | THREAT OF PRIVATISATION
FOR 22 SQN - The vital rescue service currently provided
by Chivenor's famous yellow Sea King helicopters could be privatised,
the Ministry of Defence has admitted. The Sea Kings used by the Search
and Rescue squadron at A Flight 22 Squadron based at Chivenor are
coming to the end of their life, and will need to be replaced by 2012.
The MOD will begin planning for the replacement helicopters next year and is looking at various ways of financing the new equipment. A ministry spokesman said: "Essentially we are looking at current capabilities of the search and rescue units which need replacing in 2012. Procurement proceedings begin in a year's time and we are looking at all kinds of ways to provide maximum value for money for the UK taxpayer. "A private finance initiative is a route that may be one of those options. It is a possibility to explore in a year's time." The future of the squadron, which played a vital
role during the Boscastle flood rescue operation, was secured in
October. There had been fears that the service could fall prey to
cuts as part of the latest defence review. The
helicopters played a pivotal role in rescuing people from last August's
floods in Boscastle, Cornwall. |
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| 01/06/05 | LIGHTS, CAMERA,
ACTION... Well, maybe not quite that glamourous but well
done to Fg Off Daniel Reece for being selected for a part in the new
national 'Vigilant Passenger Safety Briefing' which is being released
on DVD to all gliding schools in the near future. Dan replaces another
former member of staff Sqn Ldr Ches Ledster RAF VR(T) (Ret'd) who
used to appear in the briefing video. |
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| 01/06/05 | VGS CLOSURE - All staff and cadets currently on course at Chivenor should be aware that the VGS will be closed for the weekend of 4th & 5th of June 2005 due to Unservicable Aircraft. The VGS will recommence operations as usual Saturday 11th June 2005.
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| 31/05/05 | MAY
COURSE SUCCESS... Congratulations to the following cadets
who completed their Gliding Scholarship Course at RMB Chivenor over
the period of 26th May 2005 to the 31st May 2005... Cadet Sergeant Beale - 41F (Taunton) Squadron (Silver Solo Wings)
Cadet Flight Sergeant
Fouracre - 41F (Taunton) Squadron (Blue Wings)
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| 15/05/05 | CONGRATULATIONS - To one of our newest members of staff FSC Richard Steer on gaining his Private Pilots Licence. Richard will now undergo a five hour aircraft conversion to be awarded his Grade 1 Pilot on the Vigilant T-Mk1 allowing him to train cadets on Gliding Induction Courses.
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| 11/05/05 | AIR LEAGUE COMPETITION 2005 - Each year a competition takes place at RAF Syerston in Lincolnshire alternating between Vigilant and Viking squadrons from year to year. Each VGS must nominate two pilots to attend the week long competition to take part in a variety of activities against all the other units in the country. The winning team will win the Air League Cup. This years team will consist of Flt Lt Matt Haywood RAF VR(T) and CGI James Gedling ATC. Some of the activities they will take part in include. Timed Circuits The team will be assessed in each exercise and gain an overall score with the winners being announced at the end of the week. Watch this space for information on how our team get on.
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| 10/05/05 | CHIVENOR GOES CAR BOOT CRAZY - In an effort to raise funds RMB Chivenor's Air Training Corps squadron, 722 (Chivenor) Squadron are running a car boot sale on the first saturday of each calendar month throughout the summer on Chivenor airfield. For more information visit their website by clicking the link below or email carboot@722sqnatc.org.uk.
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| 10/05/05 | BACK THE BID 2012 - With less than 60 days until the winning candidate city for the 2012 Olympic Games will be announced have you signed up to back the bid? If not visit the official website by clicking the link below.
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| 09/05/05 | CURRENT STATS
- This years targets are in and the VGS must attempt to
complete 60 Gliding Scholarships and 324 Gliding Induction Course's
between April 2005 and April 2006 - All VGS staff can keep track
of our progress on the new charts in the main briefing room.
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| 03/05/05 | NEW STAFF - 624 VGS welcomes the following new members of staff this month... Potential FSC Sam Kingdon - 1079 Tiverton
Sqn ATC
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| 02/05/05 | APRIL COURSE SUCCESS... Congratulations to the following cadets who completed their Gliding Scholarship Course at RMB Chivenor over the period of 27th April to the 2nd May 2005...
Cadet Sergeant Bekky Mant - Plymouth & Cornwall Wing ATC (Blue Wings)
Instructor Cadet Warrant
Officer Tim Stephens - Plymouth & Cornwall Wing ATC (Silver
Wings - Ghost Solo) |
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| 02/05/05 | CONGRATULATIONS - Go to Inst Cdt Sgt Craig Treasure on achieving his Grade 1 Pilot Qualification today. Craig is now qualified to fly cadets on Gliding Induction Courses.
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| 20/04/05 | AIRCRAFT LIMITS! - Please could all squadron/detached flight & contingent commanders appraise themselves of the Vigilant aircrew weight and height limits. It is essential that these limitations are adhered to for safety reasons. For more information please consult ACP20A Flying Section or contact any member of VGS staff.
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| 12/04/05 | VGS
CLOSURE - All staff and cadets currently on course at Chivenor
should be aware that the VGS will be closed for the weekend of 16th & 17th of April 2005 due to Unservicable Aircraft. The VGS will
recommence operations as usual Saturday 23rd April 2005. |
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| 06/04/05 | GOLD COAST OCEAN FESTIVAL 2005 CONFIRMED - The GoldCoast Oceanfest is a FREE sports and music festival historically held on the summer solstice weekend, a week before the world renowned Glastonbury music festival. The event showcases Surfing, Longboarding, Beach Football & Volleyball, Paddle Racing, Surf Boats, Surf skis, Aquathon, KiteSurfing, BMX Trials, Mountain Boarding, Skateboarding, Live Music and a Trade village incorporating licensed bars & restaurants, adrenalin zones, demos, exhibitions, sampling, simulators and corporate hospitality. Since its inception, the breathtaking venues in North Devon have provided a wonderful backdrop for spectators and competitors to enjoy this unique format of lifestyle events. The evolving design, production and marketing of the GoldCoast Oceanfest has led to the event becoming one of the best loved oceansports weekends in Europe. This year the event takes place on the North Devon coast between the 17th & 19th June 2005. For more information please visit the official website using the image below.
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05/04/05 |
ATC
ANNUAL PERSONAL INSURANCE COVER 05/06- Its that time of
the year again for our staff. For more information on the ATC Insurance
Cover please speak to the Adjutant. The deadline for staff returns
is 24/04/05. |
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| 01/04/05 | END
OF FINANCIAL YEAR STATISTICS- Each year the VGS has targets
to meet. This years statistics have been calculated and are available
for all VGS staff. For more information please speak to the OC or
Statistics officer. |
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| 30/03/05 | NEW
APPOINTMENT - Congratulations to Civilian Gliding Instructor
Paul Andrews ATC who today received official confirmation of his appointment
as an officer in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (Training)
Branch. Paul now holds the rank of Pilot Officer RAF VR(T). |
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| 29/03/05 | MARCH COURSE SUCCESS... Congratulations to the following cadets who completed their Gliding Scholarship Course at RMB Chivenor over the period of 23 - 29 March 2005...
Cadet Corporal Mark Bernand, Maidstone
Grammar School CCF RAF Section - GS Silver Wings (Solo)
Cadet Sergeant Andrew
Ritchie, Milton Abbey CCF RAF Section - GS Blue Wings (Course Completion) |
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| 23/03/05 | NEW
FACILITIES... Today saw the arrival of new kit lockers for
the staff rooms and cadet accommodation. 624 VGS now also provides
study facilities for GS Scholarship Cadets to allow them to do home/coursework
while on course when stood down from flying duties. |
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| 17/03/05 | CHIVENORS
FUTURE SAFE! Confirmation that RMB Chivenor is safe from
the threat of closure has finally arrived. The announcement follows
months of speculation about the future of the base.
A defence estates review resulted in a Government announcement that cuts would be made, prompting fears that 59 Squadron Royal Engineers and Commando Logistic Regiment could be moved away. Devon County Council and North Devon MP Nick Harvey lobbied against possible closure. Mr Harvey said: "After a long wait I am extremely happy to hear this news and hope that this will finally lay fears about the future of RMB Chivenor to rest. "I am 100% convinced that the immediate threat has gone because they have been taken out of this particular defence review." Governments would, he added, periodically review their defence estates to ensure they were getting value for money, and the Chivenor base offered room for expansion, should that be desired. Mr Harvey said: "I have been in constant contact with ministers on this issue, aiming to convince them of the vital strategic and economic importance RMB Chivenor serves in North Devon and, indeed, the entire south west peninsula. I am just glad that for once our pleas have been heard, but will be keeping a close eye on the situation for a while yet." Brian Greenslade, deputy leader of the county council, is also the county councillor responsible for the Chivenor area - making this issue particularly close to his heart. He had also weathered similar threats of closure in 1992, and estimated closure of the base would have left a £35 million hole in the local economy. Its continued use, he said, was "very good news", as it meant that the search and rescue helicopters, so vital in operations at Boscastle, would remain. Article adapted from : North Devon Journal
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| 01/03/05 | YEAR OF THE VOLUNTEER... The 1,200 ATC and CCF(RAF) units spread across the UK and abroad are all staffed by adult volunteers. For both the ATC and CCF(RAF) training is free and volunteers have the opportunity to become civilian instructors, adult warrant officers or commissioned officers in the Training Branch of the RAF Volunteer Reserve (RAFVR(T)). No specific skills are needed to become a volunteer with the Air Cadets but the ability to communicate well with young people is vital. If you think you are up to the challenge click the link to the right or contact 624 VGS direct and our staff will be only to pleased to put you in contact with your local ATC Headquarters. DO
YOU THINK YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES? |
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| 15/02/05 | NEW SIGN AT LAST, Thanks goes to CGI Rawle for aquiring a new sign for the front of our Headquarters!
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| 01/02/05 | NEW
GRADE 2 PILOTS, Congratulations to four of our Flight Staff
Cadet who recently achieved their Grade 2 Pilot Award. FSC's Adcock,
Desforges, Treasure and Whyatt will now progress towards earning their
Grade 1 Award upon completion of which they will be authorised to
teach cadets on their Gliding Induction Course. |
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| 13/01/05 | CONGRATULATIONS,
Are in order for Pilot Officer Daniel Reece RAF VR(T) who
has achieved both his promotion to Flying Officer as well as passing
his A2 Category Instrucor assessment at ACCGS this month. |
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| 15/11/04 | GLIDER CONTROL CARAVAN UPDATE... After much talk and discussion it seems that the VGS MT Officer has secured a replacement Glider Control Caravan from RAF Cranwell (Syerston Detachment). It has now been delivered and will
replace the temporary RAF Control Caravan (known better as the ‘burger
bar) this weekend when we locate the keys! |
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| 14/11/04 | VGS REMEMBERS On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918 the guns of Europe fell silent. After four years of the most bitter and devastating fighting, The Great War was finally over. The Armistice was signed at 5am in a railway carriage in the Forest of Compiegne, France on November 11, 1918. Six hours later, at 11am, the war ended. The first Remembrance Day was conducted in 1919 throughout Britain and the Commonwealth. Originally called Armistice Day, it commemorated the end of hostilities the previous year. It came to symbolise the end of the war and provide an opportunity to remember those who had died. After the end of the Second World War in 1945 Armistice Day became Remembrance Day to include all those who had fallen in the two World Wars and later conflicts. 624 VGS Sunday Flight today conducted a 2 minute silence in remembrance of all those who lost their lives.
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| 13/11/04 | GOODBYE TO ZH189 UB - It was announced today that Vigilant ZULU HOTEL 189 (UNIFORM BRAVO) would be leaving the school to return to RAF Cranwell (Syerston Detachment) for servicing. Its replacement Vigilant ZULU HOTEL 126 (TANGO MIKE) will arrive in the next few weeks
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| 01/11/04 | VGS ANNUAL DINNER... This year’s annual dinner will take place on Saturday 22nd January 2005 at The Officers’ Mess, RMB Chivenor. We are very privilaged to have the author of ‘First Flight’ and retired Battle of Britain Pilot Sqn Ldr Geoffrey Wellum DFC attending as a guest of honor. For more details please speak to the VGS Adjutant. PHOTOS NOW AVAILABLE FROM THE GALLERY
PAGES... |
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| 01/10/04 | 22 SQN ‘OPS NORMAL’ It has been announced that 22 Sqn HQ & A Flt Search & Rescue based at RMB Chivenor will not be affected by the MoD cut backs due to take place early 2005. It was originally rumoured that the S&R Flight could be moved to Cornwall or Wales. Good news for all those who encounter difficulties on the South West's coastline. |
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08/08/04 |
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01/08/04 |
NEW
CCF UNIT OPEN, Wellington School have opened a new RAF Combined
Cadet Force Section and will begin visits to 624 VGS very soon.
We look forward to seeing cadets from Wellington in the near future.
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| 01/07/04 |
100
GIC DAY CANCELLED,
Unfortunately due to severe weather conditions the 60th
Anniversary 100 GIC Day has been cancelled. Thanks go to the squadrons
who attended on the Friday evening and especially to the following
cadets from the wing who undertook training to act as Ground Staff
Cadets for the day.
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25/06/04 |
TOP
AWARD ANNOUNCED AT ACCGS, A top accolade
has been awarded to Squadron Leader Robin Miller, senior gliding instructor
of the The certificate, signed by
the Grand Master of the Guild HRH the Duke of York, recognises individuals
whose qualities of pilotage, air navigation, airmanship and character
have brought honour and respect to the profession of air pilots
and navigators over a number of years. Sqn Ldr Miller was nominated
by HQ Personnel Training Command at RAF Innsworth. His selection
was the unanimous selection of the GAPAN awards committee, who reflected
that his career was one of ‘achievement and distinction’. The timing of this award is especially
appropriate as Sqn Ldr Miller retires in July after 37 years as
a Qualified Gliding Instructor. For the last 10 years he has been
the Air Cadets Senior Gliding Instructor. |
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17/06/04 |
100 GIC DAY ANNOUNCED, On Saturday 26 th June 2004 as part of 624 VGS 60 th Anniversary
celebrations the squadron aims to fly 100 cadets between 0500 and
1030 hrs. Cadets will travel from all over Devon, Somerset and Cornwall
ATC and CCF units. |
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18/04/04 |
624 VGS WIN BREITLING TROPHY! , It was officially announced today at the annual Commanding Officers conference for 2004 that we have won the Breitling trophy awarded to the squadron who's Flight Staff Cadets have had the most achievements within Gliding and through other activities that have stood the VGS in good light in the local community. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
A party of ten cadets and staff from the New South Wales Wing
of the Australian Air Force Cadet Corps recently spent three weeks
in the South West region. While in the region the party also managed
to go gliding at Predannack, visit the Royal Marines in Plymouth
and met cadets from several of the regions cadet units.
