A FIRST FOR S&NI AT RIAT 2010

Only two Cadets from Scotland & Northern Ireland Region attended RIAT as part of the Communications Team. Flt Sgt F Christie from Aberdeen Wing and Flt Sgt R MacLeod of Edinburgh & South Scotland Wing. Both left from Stirling on Monday 12 July 2010 on a 9 hour journey to Fairford.

Starting on  Tuesday 13 July until Tuesday 20 July, up at 0530 Hrs until 2230 Hrs on a shift cycle of 2 Hrs on 2 Hrs off they helped control the movements of staff, transport, Cadets, ground Opps etc for the whole site. 

Both agreed that RIAT was an experience of a lifetime one activity that the Corps should be very proud off. A great deal of responsibilty is put on the shoulders of the Cadets and Staff who have a massive role to play at this event. 

One of the best parts of the event was being allowed to get up close to the many aircraft and speak to the crews from different countries. Flt Sgt MacLeod said " the ultimate was getting access to the F22 Raptor and speaking to the Aircrew", this was the first time the F22 Raptor has been on display at RIAT.

Cadets collected memorabilia using an exchange system using the many parts of their uniform. this proved to be very successful and items were exchanged.

Both Flt Sgt Christie and Flt Sgt MacLeod said "they have made many new friends from all over the country and look forward to seeing them in the furture".

"If you are offered the chance to go to RIAT then we recommend that you do as this is one of the greatest experiences the Corps has to offer" both have said.

Submitted by oc383sqn