The Cadets, volunteers and staff at 2452 (Shawlands Academy) Squadron Air Training Corps (ATC) had the pleasure of welcoming the Lord Provost for the City of Glasgow to their training centre last Friday evening.
Upon her arrival at the Shawlands-based centre, the Right Honourable the Lord Provost Councillor Jacqueline McLaren was welcomed by Flight Lieutenant Yasmeen Khan, 2452 Squadron’s Officer Commanding, and Wing Commander Jim Haley, Officer Commanding of West Scotland Wing ATC.
Cadet Corporal Cash, who had the honour of presenting the Squadron standard for the Lord Provost’s arrival, had a lot to look forward to about the evening: ‘It’s especially great for new Cadets in terms of experience in fixing the uniform and seeing how these kinds of events play out. That way when they go to camps or larger events like Battle of Britain or Remembrance parades, they know what to expect.
‘Tonight is also a great opportunity to speak to some of the higher-ranking Officers and find out more about them and what they are like.’
‘The Cadets are often involved in ceremonial parades in the city centre and often see people like the Lord Provost from afar,’ said Wing Commander Haley, ‘but this gives them the chance to see the Lord Provost up close, have a chat and find out a little bit more from her perspective as to what the Lord Provost actually does. Likewise, the Lord Provost will get to see what being an Air Cadet is all about.’
The visit began in earnest with a parade inspection, giving the Lord Provost an opportunity to speak with each of the Cadets in turn. This was followed by an informal meeting with two Cadet Force Adult Volunteers from 1777 Squadron and a tour of the facilities.
Over the course of the evening, Councillor McLaren observed and spoke with the Cadets as they undertook lessons in flight simulation, leadership strategy and expedition planning for their upcoming Duke of Edinburgh Awards. The Cadets were also keen to share their most memorable experiences with the Lord Provost, such as their first gliding lessons and making a start on building up their flying hours.
The evening rounded off with an award presentation overseen by Flight Lieutenant Khan, Wing Commander Haley and Councillor McLaren.
‘I’ve been so impressed with everything that’s going on in this building tonight,’ said the Lord Provost in her closing remarks, addressing the Cadets directly following the award presentation. ‘I’m so delighted to be here and I’m so proud of all these young people doing what they do best. I wish you all the best and hope to see you all again.’
Currently serving as a Vice-President of Lowland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association, it will have been particularly meaningful for the Lord Provost to spend time with the Air Cadets.
