Touchdown 3

2009/2010

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Air Cadet Magazine

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NEW COMMANDING OFFICER

A delighted Flight Lieutenant Stephen Hughes recently took command of 645 Volunteer Gliding Squadron after a handover from Squadron Leader Ken Wiper.
 
Flt Lt Hughes has been heavily involved with 645 VGS since the days when they were based at RAF Catterick and flew Conventional Gliders. The squadron bid a fond farewell to Sqn Ldr Wiper who also had a lengthy involvement following four years as Commanding Officer. 

The VGS has experienced a number of changes recently, including joining forces with 635 Squadron after BAe Samlesbury had been disbanded. They bring with them three aircraft and now with a total of seven, makes RAF Topcliffe the largest Vigilant Operator in the ACO.
 
After taking over in the role Flt Lt Hughes commented: “I have taken over at a very busy time. With two squadrons operating on one site, RAF Topcliffe is a hive of activity. The squadron is very stable at the moment and there is a wealth of very talented individuals here, offering quality instruction to cadets.

Moving forward I am keen to watch the next generation of squadron staff progress and on behalf of my team, we look forward to welcoming our new customers – the cadets.”
 
This year 645 VGS aim to start a series of presentation visits to local Air Cadet squadrons. The squadron would like to encourage all cadets in Durham & Northumberland Wing and Central & East Yorkshire Wing, who are eligible, to apply for their Gliding Scholarship.