1244 Swindon Squadron ATC
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1244 Squadron is a HQ unit of the Air Training Corps, part of Dorset/Wilts wing in the South West region. The current Commanding Officer is Flt Lt James Stevens RAFVR(T).
The squadron is currently based in the grounds of Holy Rood school in the center of Swindon. The site includes a large playground which serves as the parade ground and a woodland area nearby known as the Lawns.
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[edit] History
The squadron was inaugurated in 1941 as part of the UK Government initiative to setup as many squadrons, in as many towns and cities as possible.
1244 Swindon squadron was formed in 1941 when Councilor Mr Thorpe was appointed as honorary secretary. The Town Hall was chosen as the venue for the first public meeting of the new Air Training Corps squadron on 29th January 1941 and was addressed by Mr Wakefield MP. Being a reservist in the RAF holding the rank of Squadron Leader, Mr Wakefield was well qualified to speak at the meeting. Mr Wakefield explained that the Government hoped to enlist 200 boys per 20,000 population, which meant that Swindon should raise a total of 600 young men, to be trained in three squadrons. In closing the meeting Mr Wakefield was cheered when he stated "Swindon is going to have the most efficient three squadrons in the Country".
The Evening Advertiser edition of the 6th of February reported that an organizing committee had been selected which included the Mayor of Swindon, Mr Wakefield MP, the Headmasters of the Commonweal, Pinehurst and Sanford St. Schools and various directors of local companies, including the Assistant Running Superintendent of the GWR. A photograph was featured in the February edition of the Evening Advertiser which pictured Councilor Thorne signing on Swindon's first air cadet, Owen George Skane, aged 16 from Prospect Hill in the town. He was the first youth to arrive at the Town Hall to sign his application to join 302 Squadron and still lives in the town. Four days later the Evening Advertiser reported that the first Squadron of 200 boys was certain, and that a second Squadron was to be formed fairly soon. Indeed, only a few short weeks later the paper confirmed the appointment of the new Squadron Commander as Mr J G Mason, Headmaster of Pinehurst Modern School, and the title of 1244 Squadron (Swindon) Air Training Corps was officially sanctioned.
After the war, the original meeting places in schools soon became too small and premises of a more permanent nature began to be imperative. Whilst the First Squadron of Swindon, 302 slipped into the obscurity of time, it's younger sibling, 1244 continued to march on and grow in strength and stature. A few years after the end of the war 1244 Squadron established it's Headquarters Flight in the lawns, taking over ex-American wartime billets, complete with contemporary graffiti on the interior walls. Detached flights still flourished in the schools in and around the post war expanding town. During the mid fifties the Squadron had 7 Flights of 160 cadets under the command of Squadron Leader Garrett, and the corps continued to flourish under his successor Flight Lieutenant Hyde.
[edit] Commanding Officers
Flt Lt James Stevens - 2006 to Present James Stevens previously served as commanding officer of Highworth squadron before becoming CO. His interests include Rugby and hiking.
Flt Lt Becky Harrison - 2004 to 2006 Becky Harrison served as a squadron officer under Flt Lt Briggs prior to becoming CO. She was heavily involved in community youth protects and was a keen supporter of community involvement. Her time as Co saw many changes to the squadron including a large scale refit of the main building and temporary
Flt Lt Sue Briggs - 2001 to 2004 James Stevens took over command of the squadron from Flt Lt Rebecca Harrisson in 2006. He previously served as commanding officer of Highworth squadron.
Flt Lt Brain Rundle - 1997 to 2001 James Stevens took over command of the squadron from Flt Lt Rebecca Harrisson in 2006. He previously served as commanding officer of Highworth squadron.
[edit] Activities
The Squadron Band
Perhaps the most prestigious flight on the squadron, the band has a long history and has played some impressive engagements in support of the squadron.
Outdoor Pursuits
The squadron has access to a large area of grassland and is only minutes away from the countryside. Cadets regularly take part in expeditions, ground defense training and exercises.
Aviation Technology
Aviation Tech is the study of aircraft, systems and recognition. Cadets work on models which are entered into various competitions, namely the annual Wing Training Day.
Corporate Communications
The PR department of the squadron. Cadets here are responsible for maintaining the public 'face' of the squadron. They update the squadron website and produce a regular newsletter. The team has a prominent role to play whenever the squadron is deployed on public activities, advertising and recruiting new members.
[edit] Community Involvement
The squadron maintains close links with the community and devotes a great deal of time to charitable causes. Notable events include;
The Old Town Festival Royal Air Force Association Wings Appeal
[edit] Achievments
1994 - Twynham Cup Inter-Squadron Swimming Championships - Senior Girls Event - Winner
1996 - Wing Staff Officers Trophy Inter-Squadron Air Recognition Completion Winner
1997 - Wing Staff Officers Trophy Inter-Squadron Air Recognition - Runner Up
1997 - Twynham Cup Inter-Squadron Swimming Championships - Senior Girls Event - Winner
1997 - Pentathlon Challenge Cup Inter-Squadron Pentathlon competition - Winner
1998 - 5-A Side-Cup Inter-Squadron 5-A Side-Football Championships - Winner
1998 - Phillott Cup Inter-Squadron Aircraft Recognition Competition - Runner Up
1998 - Alan Fellows Memorial Trophy Winner
1998 - Lewery Shield Inter Squadron Sporting Achievement - Winner
1998 - Twynham Cup Inter-Squadron Swimming Championships - Senior Girls Event - Winner
1998 - Baker Cup Inter Squadron Championship - Over all Winners
1998 - Blanford Shield Inter-Squadron Swimming Championships - Junior Girls - Winner
1998 -Efficiency Shield Wing Competition - Runner Up
[edit] See also
[edit] External links
[edit] References
 The NCOs of the squadron pose for a photograph during an inspection. |
 The Operations room is a hub of activity during busy parade nights. |
 Cadets in the process of 'forming up' on the drill square. |
