Page 47 - Cadet Review Spring 2023

FIRST TIME FLYERS FOR
2388 SQUADRON
By Rev Andrew Checkley
Douglas Adams in his book Hitchhikers Guide to
the Galaxy, describes flying as the art of throwing yourself at the ground and missing. A group of Cadets from 2388 (Castleford) Squadron recently found out that there is a little bit more to it than that.
The weather in the days leading up to the flying were not promising with rain and the first frost of the year. The morning they were due to go flying dawned dry with hints of blue sky. The cadets were kitted out in flying suits and gloves and then went through the safety drills and instructions so they knew what to do in the event of an emergency.
The cadets were all taken up in Grob Tutors and were in the air for about half an hour. Whilst waiting their turn, there was a lot going on at the airfield. Some of the cadets decided to watch a film. It may come as no surprise to find Top Gun was the film of choice. In addition to Tutors that were flying circuits round the airfield, there were a number
of other aircraft using the base. A squadron
of F18 Hornets from the Swiss Air Force were currently training to develop their night flying
skills. It was very different to experience
the quiet buzz of the propeller driven Tutor compared to the twin engine roar of the F18
whilst taken off. The ear defenders made
them much quieter but you felt the throb of the engines on afterburner in the pit of your stomach.
The cadets had a very enjoyable time experiencing flying for the first time.
Cadet Adam Rogers commented - “I really enjoyed the flying experience because it allowed me to see what my future career may look like. When I went flying the pilot was very nice and informative telling me how the aircraft worked and how the airfield
operated. I also had the chance to fly the aircraft and turn it around and head back to the airfield. Unfortu- nately, I didn’t have the chance to do aerobatics but later on my other cadet friend got to do them. If I had the chance to go flying again I would do so. It was an amazing experience.”
Cadet Kian Smith said “The experience flying in the Grob Tutor was amazing. I was able to take
control of the plane with the pilot also undertaking some aerobatic manoeuvres which was simply
amazing! The pilot was also really nice and explained what was happening.”
SQUADRON COMMANDER SAVES LIFE!
Recently Flight Lieutenant Paul Watts of 362 Squadron came across an elderly gentleman in Sheffield City Centre who had collapsed with a cardiac arrest. He immediately sprang into action and without hesitation opened the injured persons airway. He then proceeded to start CPR while a bystander called for an ambulance. Flt Lt Watts continued providing CPR until paramedics arrived and took over. We are pleased to hear that after a period of convalescence the injured party made a full recovery thanks to Paul’s actions.
It is with great pleasure we announce that Flt Lt Watts, who at the time had only recently completed a first aid course at Wing HQ, has been awarded a Royal Humane Society Resuscitation Award for his actions bravely helping save a member of the public’s life.
Wing Commander Brian Daniel, Officer Commanding South & West Yorkshire Wing commented - “It is brilliant to hear that Flt Lt Watts has been recognised for his quick thinking and selflessness in performing CPR on a member of the public while off duty. His actions no doubt contributed to the injured party making a recovery. It is fantastic to see skills delivered during Wing training being put to use in such a manner. The Royal Humane Society certificate is thoroughly deserved - well done Paul!”
CADET REVIEW SPRING 2023 47