622 Squadron’s Air Force cadets get their wings

Members of the Murray Bridge squadron get behind the controls of a Cessna at Pallamana.

622 Squadron’s Air Force cadets get their wings

This post was contributed by Pilot Officer Samuel Mach of the Australian Air Force Cadets’ 622 Squadron.

Leading Aircraftman Nick Robbertse, Pilot Officer Sam Mach, Cadet Corporal Luke Ratzmer, Cadet James Murray and Leading Cadet Sacha Randall pose with flight instructor Kate Humble. Photo: 622 Squadron, Australian Air Force Cadets.

On Sunday, members of 622 Squadron, Australian Air Force Cadets, had a unique opportunity at the Pallamana Aerodrome.

The Royal Australian Air Force engaged a powered flying service provider so cadets could gain some in-air experience.

With the assistance of a flying instructor from Aldinga Biplanes, each of the cadets was given the opportunity to fly in a general aviation aircraft – in this instance a four-seat, single-engine Cessna 172 – mostly one-on-one with the instructor.

Joining the members from Murray Bridge were some Air Force cadets from 602 Squadron, Woodside.

The activity was made possible through the active support of the Royal Australian Air Force and Bill Antel, owner of the Pallamana airfield.

Air Force Cadets seek new faces

The 622 Squadron of the Australian Air Force Cadets in Murray Bridge is currently on a recruiting drive.

Participation in the AAFC gives youth an opportunity to become better equipped for life, developing initiative, leadership, discipline and loyalty.

The cadets have a structured program that fosters an interest in the Royal Australian Air Force and all aspects of aviation.

Joining as a cadet also builds interpersonal skills and confidence, and the experience can assist in later jobseeking.

The AAFC shares the RAAF’s organisational model, rank structure and uniform.

No matter what career cadets choose, the AAFC provides a foundation of knowledge and skills that assist participants towards their future.

The 622 Squadron covers the Murraylands, Strathalbyn, Mid Murray, Mallee, Bremer and Coorong regions and parades each Friday night during school terms.

In addition, it stages other activities on weekends and holidays including field craft bivouacs, firearms safety training, trips to RAAF Edinburgh, flying and community events such as Australia Day and Anzac Day.

All cadets have the opportunity to partake in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme and, as they develop, can get the opportunity to travel interstate and even overseas should they want.

The squadron welcomes any enquiries from young women and men aged turning between 13 and 18 years in 2022 who think the AAFC could be for them.

It is are also looking for like-minded persons over the age of 18 who would like to consider joining as staff.


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