Oakley 2462 Squadron Air Cadets

01/11/2026

In addition to supporting the important Poppy Appeal collections, some of our SNCOs and staff attended the annual Highlanders Memorial Service at Foster Hill Road Cemetery.

While many remembrance events focus on those lost during conflict, this service commemorates the soldiers of the Highland regiments who were billeted in Bedford during the First World War. Many of these soldiers came from remote Highland and island communities and had little or no immunity to illnesses such as measles, diphtheria and pneumonia. Tragically, around 150 soldiers died during their time in Bedford, with 33 buried in Foster Hill Road Cemetery.

Today, 2462 (Oakley) Squadron paid its respects by laying a wreath on behalf of the Squadron at the imposing Highlanders Memorial. The service is a unique and moving occasion, led by the Bedford Pipe Band and accompanied by drummers from Bomber County Pipes and Drums.

Many local dignitaries attended, including His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Mrs Susan Lousada, Mohammad Yasin MP, and the Mayor of Bedford, Tom Wootton. Cadets representing all branches of the armed forces were present, alongside members of numerous Royal British Legion branches.

We are proud to have played a part in ensuring that the sacrifice of these soldiers, and their connection to Bedford, continues to be remembered.

Royal British Legion We Are Bedford Royal Air Force Air Cadets Royal Air Force Association Bedford Branch Bedfordshire Lieutenancy Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing ATC

25/10/2026

It’s that time of year when we come together to remember and commemorate those from all conflicts who were injured or lost their lives.

Today we did our first stint collecting on behalf of the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal at Sainsbury's.

Thank you to our cadets and staff for collecting and to the very generous Sainsbury’s shoppers. Hardly anyone donated coins this year. It was mostly notes or card payments!

03/09/2026

It’s great to see more cadets back at the Squadron now the holidays are over!

We also had the privilege of promoting Cadet Bartlett to the rank of Corporal. Cpl Bartlett joined us from another squadron a few months ago and has made his mark on Oakley. We’re looking forward to seeing Cpl Bartlett develop over the coming months.

29/07/2026

Here’s what our cadets have been up to so far this summer holiday…

Trying out our new MTa kits in a variety of ways - getting to know the components and making wheelbarrows.

Then we had a long overdue assessment of our 12x12 tents. It was a great team building exercise for many of our newer cadets who haven’t put up or seen these before.

25/07/2026

21/07/2026

At the Squadron we have the pleasure of promoting many cadets over the years, but today was about a member of staff.

Sergeant Harry Smith has been part of the squadron since he joined as a cadet. Tonight he had the honour of being promoted to the rank of Flight Sergeant by Squadron Leader Dolton, following 4 years (and one day!) of great service to the Squadron, Sector and Wing.

FS Smith has led many cadet training activities and is an asset to the organisation.

Congratulations, FS Smith!

21/06/2026

In the past couple of weeks six of our cadets have been lucky enough to take to the skies, two went gliding at 644 Volunteer Gliding Squadron and four went to 7 AEF squadron. All first-time flyers as cadets it was a fantastic opportunity, and it was safe to say by the smiles on their faces they all loved the experience.
A bonus for our four cadets flying the pilot was Wg Cdr Nick Gensler who is the Aviation Officer for Central & East Region, a great opportunity for them to meet him.
These opportunities are mainly delivered by dedicated team of qualified volunteers giving up their time to inspire cadets to pursue a career in aviation and the RAF.

13/06/2026

Calling all girls aged 13 to 18 who are curious about what a future in aerospace and defence could look like!!

We’re excited to invite you to a Girls in Aviation Day at the AirTanker Hub, RAF Brize Norton on Saturday 19 September and applications are now open!

On the day, you will:
✈️ Step inside a real aviation environment at the AirTanker Hub
✈️ Take part in hands-on activities and team challenges
✈️ Get closer to aircraft and explore how they work
✈️ Experience how flight planning and operations come together
✈️ See how different skills and interests link to real careers

Too many young people rule out careers before they have had the chance to see what they involve. Giving girls access to real environments and experiences helps change that.

Know someone who might be interested? Share this opportunity with them - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GIAD26

AirTanker looks forward to welcoming the next generation into aviation.

03/06/2026

Camp VIKING II - Gold Fieldcraft Course!

At late notice, we have approval to deliver a Gold Fieldcraft course as part of Camp Viking II, for cadets who meet the criteria!

The Gold Fieldcraft syllabus is designed to produce Cadet 2ICs. Cadets will receive training in the ex*****on and delivery of orders and will be capable of commanding a section of cadets in fieldcraft situations.

Cadets applying must meet both of the following criteria:
- Completed L98A2 Initial Weapons Training (WHTs can be provided).
- Completed and passed the Silver Fieldcraft Training and Assessment Package.

Cadets wishing to apply for a place on the Gold Fieldcraft Course should submit applications no later than 30 June, using the link in Cadet Portal.

19/05/2026

RAF World: Launchpad is designed for young people who want to explore a career in the RAF. The event gives attendees the chance to hear directly from serving personnel, ask questions and find out what life in the RAF really looks like.

Book your tickets here:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/raf-world-launchpad-tickets-1988320190213
RAF Recruitment