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The
Leamington Spa branch of RAFA have been in contact with 84 Squadron
for some time: partnering to provide a fantastic display of cadets
and service personnel for the Battle of Britain and Remembrance
parades which take place annually in Leamington Spa town centre. They
also have worked together raising money and selling poppies during
the Poppy Appeal weeks in October and November and some of the
members have visited the Squadron to give talks about their
involvement with the Royal Air Force and aviation over their wide and
varied careers. When approached by Branch President Group Captain
Raymond MacDonald MBE (RAF Retired) regarding an official adoption,
Officer-in-Charge, Flying Officer Rosie Robinson was quick to accept
the wonderful offer and so the process was started.
Unfortunately
Raymond MacDonald was unable to attend the ceremony due to ill health
but the Branch Chairman, Stuart Powney made the official presentation
of the adoption certificate. The cadets were given a short
introduction to the RAFA and their role alongside the regular service
and then the buffet was declared open. The members and cadets were
encouraged to mingle and share stories.
Flying
Officer Rosie Robinson made a short acceptance speech thanking the
branch for their warm hospitality and the fantastic refreshments
provided adding: “this is not just something to hang on our wall,
this is the start of a strong relationship between our two
organisations. I've been approached by so many members who would like
to come and share their stories with the cadets and we really look
forward to taking up these offers as part of our training programme
in the next few months”.
