The concept of organizing teenage air enthusiasts into locally backed squadrons officially supported by The Royal Air Force was first mooted in the late 1920s. The idea proved a success and thousands of youngsters were able to learn about aircraft, aerodynamics, navigation, mechanics and other subjects not taught in schools. The organization was to become known as The Air Training Corps (ATC) and as war loomed it was considered a useful RAF recruitment tool to attract potential airmen and ground crew. Throughout the war ATC cadets supported the home defences by fire watching, as messengers and as The concept of organizing teenage air enthusiasts into locally backed squadrons officially supported by The Royal Air Force was first mooted in the late 1920s. The idea proved a success and thousands of youngsters were able to learn about aircraft, aerodynamics, navigation, mechanics and other subjects not taught in schools. The organization was to become known as The Air Training Corps (ATC) and as war loomed it was considered a useful RAF recruitment tool to attract potential airmen and ground crew. Throughout the war ATC cadets supported the home defences by fire watching, as messengers and as observers, working alongside the Home Guard, the fire services and other vital organisations. During the second half of the Twentieth Century the corps continued to thrive. Girls were now included and retired RAF officers and other ranks continued to play an active role in each squadron. There are now over 900 squadrons within the UK, providing the same skills to modern youth and teaching them the importance of personal responsibility and teamwork via annual camps at RAF stations, adventure training and flight experience. This book looks at all aspects of the air cadet's history and tradition, including the RAF sections of the Combined Cadet Force attached to public and grammar schools. It concludes with an analysis of what subjects and courses are currently available with many past and present illustrations. Within the book are chapters dedicated to the syllabus, aircraft recognition and adventure training as well as chapters detailing the personal achievements of former cadets. In an attempt to inspire a new generation of students, short interviews with former pilots whose career high points have included flying with the Red Arrows and piloting pioneering space aircraft are included. So too is a full roll of honour, as well as an extensive appendix section covering everything from details of various uniforms and badges to a listing of famous former cadets. AUTHOR: Wing Commander 'Ray' Kidd is the ATC's Official Historian. He has previously written Wings of Youth, a history of the Yorkshire Wing of the ATC. He still plays an active part in ATC activities and is in constant contact with HQ Air Cadets at Cranwell. SELLING POINTS: Tremendous sales potential?thousands of air cadets throughout the world Potential readership amongst the millions of ex-cadets Full backing of the RAF 200 colour and mono illustrations
