378 Mannock Sqn Civilian Committee

28/07/2024

Cadets support first local Sywell Airshow in 9 years

June 23 and June 24 saw Cadets, Staff and Civilian Committee members Michael Hackett and Neil Wrighting, from 378 Sqn joined by 858 Sqn, to support the much-anticipated return of an airshow to Sywell Aerodrome.

Sywell Aerodrome dates back to 1928, where, during WW2, Wellington bombers were repaired and almost 100 Lancaster MKII were built. It is now currently home to a number of varied civilian aircraft, including a number of WW2 aircraft which are operated by Ultimate Fighters, who organised the airshow.

Cadets had several important tasks over the weekend. Making sure the pilots, reenactors and staff were kept hydrated and passing out lunches. They were also active on our recruitment stand, promoting the RAF Air Cadet organisation, talking to the public, and involving some in our demonstration activities.

We were also tasked with supporting the flight line walk, and most importantly in full public view, leading the critical FOD walk – picking up any potential harmful debris to aircraft and engines – before the air display could start.

The cadets were also able to relax, visit the stalls and displays, step onboard a C-47 which served during WW2, and enjoy the amazing air show.

A big shout out to “The Blues” from the Red Arrows who were fantastic with the cadets, answering all their many questions and passing out some cool freebies too!

Michael Hackett, Civilian Committee

31/03/2024

Saturday 30th March saw committee members Michael Hackett, Chairman, and Neil Wrighting assist the squadron at Sywell Museum annual Easter opening.

The sun was out 😎and ice-creams were consumed!

12/11/2023

03/12/2022

Chairman Michael Hackett, and Louise Hackett joined cadets and staff for a fun round of mini golf at Rushden Lakes 🏌️ A great time was had! 😃

31/05/2022

378 (Mannock) new website launched

We are very excited to have today launched our brand new Squadron website!

https://www.378.org.uk/

Although our old site had served us well, but it was a little behind the times and was overdue an update.

In stepped Civilian Committee member Paul Sivers. Paul completely redesigned the website with a fresh and exciting new look, simpler navigation and up to date news articles and links, all of which will help make for a more satisfying user experience.

It looks fantastic, so please do take a look around, read the articles, view the galleries and use the contact forms and links provided.

Mike Hackett, Chairman
378 Civilian Committee

Home

30/04/2022

Cold War RAF Sqd Ldr lands at 378 (Mannock) HQ

Wednesday night saw Cadets, Staff and Civilian Committee from 378 (Mannock) and 858 (Rushden) given a presentation by RAF pilot, Sqn Ldr Ian Mattimoe (rtd).

The night began with a brief history of the Cold War, before moving onto Ian’s RAF career where he talked about the aircraft he flew, the differences between various types and marks, along with their offensive and defensive aids. A short section also tested the cadet’s knowledge to identify some of the Soviet Union aircraft that would have been Ian’s adversaries at the time.

Amidst this period of global high tension, Ian flew the F-4 Phantom in the RAF, but he was also selected to become an exchange pilot with the U.S. Air Force. Stationed with the 43rd Tactical Fighter Squadron in Alaska, as part of the Alaskan Air Command, Ian flew the U.S. version of the Phantom. Later a change of location and role saw Ian introduced to the newly in service, F-16A Falcon. During his time on exchange, Ian also took part in Red Flag Exercises in Nevada – always making sure to avoid Area 51!

One close call for Ian occurred during a training mission, when at over 500 knots and at only 500 feet above the ground; part of the leading edge of his F-16 aircraft tore off, which then went on to damage the rudder. Through great skill he landed the aircraft safely at an emergency airfield.

Following his time on exchange, he returned to the UK and back to the Phantom FGR2, this time as Flight Commander, and later as Executive Officer (deputy Sqn CO)

Ian then talked through some of the very extensive range of personal memorabilia that he had also brought along. From his NBC (Nuclear Biological Chemical) respirator and flying gear, cold weather clothing, NBC and flight cards, to a Red Flag Exercise map and his F-16 Helmet. The Cadets were then given the opportunity view and handle these items, to try some of the kit on, whilst Ian took to answering some really insightful questions from them.

Our sincere thanks to Ian for such an engaging and interesting talk.

Michael Hackett, Chairman
Civilian Committee (378)

16/04/2022

It's going to be cracking day 😎 so why not come on down to see us and support the Sywell Museum Easter opening! 😊

Today we are at the Sywell Museum Opening with our recruitment stand. Come down and say hello and if you are interested in joining the squadron the cadets and staff and the civilian committee are here ready to talk to you.

Civilian Instructor Caroline Lyddall
Adjutant