Flt Lt Chris Kelly, cadet Luke Lambert-Dean, cadet corporal Chloe Wright and squadron chairman Tony Davis

Air cadets in Lichfield are marking two major milestones.

The 1205 Squadron of the Royal Airforce Cadets have marked the centenary of the RAF’s formation this month, as well as agreeing a formal change of name to the City of Lichfield Squadron.

Flt Lt Chris Kelly, cadet Luke Lambert-Dean, cadet corporal Chloe Wright and squadron chairman Tony Davis
Flt Lt Chris Kelly, cadet Luke Lambert-Dean, cadet corporal Chloe Wright and squadron chairman Tony Davis

The squadron was originally formed at Whittington Barracks in 1963 when it was the headquarters of the Mercian Brigade, before moving to the territorial Army Centre on Frog Lane and then to the Cadet Training Centre on Cherry Orchard.

Commanding Officer, Flt Lt Chris Kelly said the decision to rebrand the as the City of Lichfield Squadron reflected the the current shape of the cadets.

“While we are very proud of our heritage and history, our core catchment and activities have now been centered on Lichfield for more than 50 years,” he said.

“We believe that this change of name will provide a more focused identity for the squadron and further re-enforce and expand our relationship with the local community.”

The move has been supported by civic and community leaders, including patron Michael Fabricant MP.

He said: “1206 Squadron play an active role in the civic life of the City of Lichfield, not only being based in the city but also participating in numerous local events and effectively flying the flag for the Royal Air Force in Lichfield.

“I am delighted that 1206 Squadron now bears the name ‘City of Lichfield’ and reflects the ever closer ties between the squadron and the city which is its home. But the squadron still recruits from wider afield than Lichfield – cadets come from Sutton Coldfield and other parts of Staffordshire.”

For more details about joining the air cadets in Lichfield email [email protected] or call 01543 411962.

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.