New Drill Instructor for Sussex Wing

Sussex Wing Air training Corps has welcomed its latest Drill Instructor in the form of Flight Sgt Tina Calvert from 249(Hailsham) Squadron.

Flight Sgt Calvert has recently completed the coveted Senior NCO Staff Drill Instructor Course at the Air Cadet's Adult Training Facility at RAF Cranwell following a recommendation to attend the course from Sussex Wings own Wing Warrant Officer.

The week long course trains staff to teach foot drill and ceremonial drill in a practical sequence and also emphasizes the high standards required at all times by adult staff in the ATC. This challenging course is one of the most sought after in the Corps and represents the pinnacle of drill training. Those who successfully complete the course are entitled to carry the prestigious pace stick as a symbol of their achievement and a tool of their trade.

Flight Sgt Calvert said "I am honored and really proud to become one of only two female Drill Instructor in Sussex Wing. I was presented with my certificate by Sqn Ldr Pelcot, Head of the Adult Training at RAF Cranwell., he commented on the high standards of all of the adult staff that had attended the course "26/10". I feel that there is a big challenge ahead of me now to encourage more female NCOs to become Drill Instructors too. My confidence has grown and I'm looking forward to attending my first parade with my pace stick!"

Flt Lt Banks Officer Commanding 249 Squadron said “This is one of the hardest courses that are run at RAF Cranwell, we are all very pleased that Flt Sgt Calvert has completed it”. “I’m sure the she will now keep us on our toes”.

Flt Sgt Calvert, will now help to develop the cadets and staff, not only on her own Squadron but throughout the 22 Squadrons which make up Sussex Wing.

FSGT Calvert - Middle row- Second in from the left.