The
Squadron held an open-house style evening with visitors from within
the unit, across the Wing and local contacts such as the Royal Air
Force Association Leamington Branch Chairman. Everyone enjoyed tea
and cake before completely surprising Rosie with a large bundle of
gifts, cards and flowers and for once she was speechless! Included in
the gifts were a camouflage baby outfit, RAF personalised baby-grows,
a baby rocker and, most impressively, a sleeping suit embroidered
with the 84 Squadron crest!
Since
joining 84 Squadron in 2008, Rosie gained her commission in 2009 and
then took over command in 2015. Over the years, Rosie has dedicated
her time to providing the best possible cadet experience for everyone
and often surprised the cadets with a variety of different
challenges. Her last night was no exception as she challenged the
cadets to a blind-fold nappy challenge and a baby food tasting game.
As
the sun set over Coventry Airport, the cadets formed up for Rosie's
last final parade. There were certificates and promotions given out
as well as an enrolment ceremony for the latest group of new
recruits. Rosie was also very proud to announce that Cadet Flight
Sergeant Phoebe Jenner had been awarded the honour of being the
Coventry Lord Mayor's Cadet for 2017-18 season.
Taking her final salute for a little while, Rosie said “I am so very proud to have been part of such an amazing Squadron for so long. I've seen cadets come into the unit young, inexperienced and naive about the world but then they develop and progress to finish as young adults ready to face the world. There is no greater feeling than to see that change right before our very eyes. I will miss everyone greatly but now is the time to refocus on my own home-based squadron!”
We
wish Rosie all the best for her next adventures and look forward to
meeting her little one later in the summer.
For all the photographs - check out the 84 Squadron Facebook Page.
For all the photographs - check out the 84 Squadron Facebook Page.