1051 Cadets Take to the Skies at RAF Odiham Summer Camp

Three cadets from 1051 (Dartford) Squadron enjoyed an action-packed week at RAF Odiham earlier this month, gaining a unique insight into life on an operational Royal Air Force station.

Between 1st and 7th August, Cdt Sachdev, Sgt Babatunde and Sgt Kinderman attended the London and South East Region (LaSER) Summer Camp at RAF Odiham, the home of the RAF’s iconic Chinook heavy-lift helicopter fleet.

Throughout the week, the cadets took part in a packed programme of activities and visits covering many different aspects of the station and the roles carried out by RAF personnel.

Their programme included a visit to the armoury, an insight into the work of ground engineers, drill instructor sessions and a hangar visit to 18 Squadron, giving them the opportunity to see first-hand some of the varied careers and responsibilities involved in keeping an operational RAF station running.

The highlight of the week came when the cadets were given the unforgettable opportunity to take to the skies aboard a Chinook helicopter, enjoying an aerial tour of RAF Odiham and the surrounding area.

Summer camps such as RAF Odiham provide Air Cadets with opportunities that go far beyond the normal squadron programme. As well as developing their knowledge and confidence, cadets are able to meet serving personnel, explore potential careers and gain a much greater understanding of everyday life within the Royal Air Force.

For Cdt Sachdev, Sgt Babatunde and Sgt Kinderman, it was a thoroughly enjoyable and memorable week – and certainly one that will be difficult to top!