Six Ormskirk Squadron Members Going For Gold!

Dec 7 2012

ON Wednesday November 14 2012, six ex-cadets and staff from 1026 Ormskirk Squadron ATC were invited to St James’s Palace to receive their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award from The Duke of Edinburgh HRH Prince Philip himself.

The presentation of the award completes a long process and unbelievable amount of personal and team effort for all concerned. Most of the recipients had completed their Bronze and Silver DofE awards before progressing to their Gold level. After completing their Gold Award all of the individuals have supported the remaining 40 cadets within the unit by mentoring them through the various levels of the Award and passing on their own experiences.

The Squadron has an excellent history in working with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The recent individuals that were recipients at St James’s Palace take the total number of Gold Award holders that have gone through 1026 (Ormskirk) Sqn ATC to over 120 since 1990.

The Sqn Commander, Fg Off Jon Routledge said “I am delighted that the cadets and staff of this unit have progressed with the various levels of the award. Receiving their Gold Award and the day at the Palace will be one that they will never forget. In particular I am delighted with their commitment as a team to complete the 4 day expedition and still come back to offer their encouragement to others involved in the scheme”. 

Fg Off Jon Routledge is one of the Sqns DofE supervisors and assessors, along with numerous other staff he advocates the scheme as an excellent way for young people aged 14-25 to develop teamwork, leadership and self reliance. The challenges that each individual is faced with throughout the award help them to make better decisions and think of others before themselves in many cases.

Parade nights are Monday and Friday 1900-2200hrs each week with the next open day for anyone aged 13-17 is being held at the SHQ on Green Lane Ormskirk Sunday 3rd March 2013. For more information please call 01695 581026 or email oc.1026@aircadets.org.