A double celebration was held at 1509 (Consett) squadron recently, not only to mark the 70th anniversary of the formation of the Squadron, but it also co-incided with the Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutenant Dave Parker marking his 50 years with the Corps.
Dave originally joined the Squadron as a cadet in 1961 working his way through the ranks before taking a commision in the Royal Air Force Volunteer reserve in 1973.
The unit was established shortly after the Corps was formed in 1941 and since then has provided much in the way of challenging activities to the young people of Consett.
Squadron boss, Flight Lieutenant Dave Parker said ‘I remember the 25th anniversary as a cadet and it’s good to see the organisation still going strong.’
In 1992, Dave finally assumed command, a post he has held until recently handing over the reins to Flight Lieutenant Keith Gilmour, also a former 1409 Squadron cadet.
Keith said ‘The Squadron is in good shape thanks to the work of Flight Lieutenant Parker. I am extremely proud to take command of the Squadron I was a cadet on.’
