Renfrewshire-based air cadets named top squadron in Scotland

Emylie Howie
·2-min read
2175 (Rolls-Royce) Squadron RAF Air Cadets
2175 (Rolls-Royce) Squadron RAF Air Cadets -Credit:Handout


A Renfrewshire-based air cadet squadron has won a top award and will now go on to participate in a UK-wide competition.

In a resounding achievement, 2175 (Rolls-Royce) Squadron RAF Air Cadets have been crowned the top squadron in Scotland and Northern Ireland for 2024 and top squadron in West Scotland Wing the Wing in which the squadron belongs locally.

This prestigious recognition not only underscores the squadron’s dedication but also secures the team’s participation in the highly anticipated UK-wide RAF Air Cadet competition where the Sir Alan Lee’s Trophy and The Morris Trophy will be contested.

In 1949, Air Marshal Sir Alan Lees KCB CBE DSO AFC presented a trophy to the air training corps for competition between squadrons.

It is awarded annually to the squadron which is judged to be the best in the Corps in overall achievement and efficiency during the year of assessment, having regard to its size, location and facilities.

In 1967, Air Commodore E J Morris CB CBE DSO DFC presented a trophy to be awarded annually to the squadron placed second in the Lees Trophy competition.

The Scottish accolade bestowed upon the Hillington based, 2175 (Rolls-Royce) Squadron RAF Air Cadets reflects their unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership, enthusiasm, and community service.

Their tireless efforts, under the guidance of dedicated volunteer instructors, have propelled them to the forefront of the Air Training Corps (ATC), earning them admiration and respect throughout Scotland and Northern Ireland.

“It’s a tremendous honour for our squadron to be recognised as the top squadron in Scotland and Northern Ireland,” remarked flying officer Stuart McLellan MBE, officer in charge of 2175 (Rolls- Royce) Squadron RAF Air Cadets.

“This achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion demonstrated by our cadets and staff and makes me proud to lead such a fantastic, committed team. We are immensely proud of this accomplishment and look forward to representing our region in the upcoming UK Wide RAF Air Cadet competition in due course.”

The UK Wide RAF Air Cadet competition is an esteemed event that brings together top cadet squadrons from across the United Kingdom to showcase their skills, teamwork, and leadership abilities.

Participation in this competition offers 2175 (Rolls-Royce) Squadron RAF Air Cadets a platform to demonstrate their capabilities on a national stage and further solidify their reputation as a leading squadron within the RAF Air Cadet community.

The Air Cadets continues to welcome new members aged 12 to 17 to its ranks, with more information on the RAF Air Cadet website.

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