Farewell to the Boss

Monday 5^th June 2017 marked the final parade of Officer Commanding 422 (Corby) Squadron Royal Air Force Air Cadets, Flight Lieutenant Kev Ritchie RAFVR(T), as he moves on promotion to Wing Staff, taking up the new role of Wing Sector Commander supporting Squadrons in Northamptonshire and Market Harborough.

Over the last 5 years as Commanding Officer, Flt Lt Ritchie has turned the fortunes of the Squadron around.  It has grown to be one of the largest in the Corps with over 100 cadets, experiencing all the opportunities on offer and also recently being selected as the Central and East Region nomination for the Marshall Trophy (most improved Squadron in the ATC).

Flt Lt Ritchie’s inspiration and desire to succeed has certainly rubbed off on the Squadron with cadets going on to achieve all manner of qualifications and awards including the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadets of Northamptonshire and RAF Wittering Station Commander’s Cadet, both in the same year.

Flt Lt Kev Ritchie on his final night with the Squadron

With over 100 personnel in attendance at the Squadron, Flt Lt Ritchie officially handed over the Squadron keys to Flying Officer Paul Ferguson RAFVR(T), who now assumes command as Officer in Charge.  Flt Lt Ritchie said, “I would like to thank all the staff, Civilian Committee, parents and ultimately the cadets for the support they have shown me as their CO, they are a super Squadron and I will miss them all dearly.  I wish Paul every success in his new role as Officer in Charge and look forward to seeing the Squadron develop in the future”.

Flt Lt Kev Ritchie handing over command to Flying Officer Paul Ferguson

On leaving, he was presented with gifts from the staff, Civilian Committee, parents and cadets.  The photo album from the cadets showing his journey from cadet to present, certainly brought a tear to his eye.

The Squadron wish Flt Lt Ritchie all the best in his new role and thanked him for everything he has done as the “Boss” of the Squadron.