Change of Command at 249 (Hailsham) Squadron.
The 1st of March saw newly promoted Sqn Ldr Neil Banks hand over the Squadron to Fg Off Craig Thomson. This occasion was mixed with sad and exciting emotions, but once again the cadets of 249 made the Squadron very proud with their smart turn out. Members of the Squadron committee were on hand to watch the ceremony. Sqn Ldr Banks was presented with parting gifts and kind words from the cadets, staff and committee members, wishing him all the best in his new position.
Sqn Ldr Banks will move in to a Sussex Wing post as a Staff Officer, taking on the role of Wing Adventure Training Technical Officer. He will be responsible for the adventure training needs for 22 Squadrons across Sussex, and the authorization and organisation of Squadrons and Wing based adventure training activities.
Fg Off Thomson is no stranger to the unit, as he has been the Adjutant at 249 since transferring in from 55 (Woodford & Bramhall) Squadron in East Cheshire & South Manchester Wing last year. Fg Off Thomson is married to Dawn and has two children.
Sqn Ldr Reg Holdstock Ret’ chairman of the civilian committee said “Craig will have a hard act to follow, but is a very high calibre Officer, and will no doubt take the Squadron from strength to strength”. “He is the best man for the job”.
Sqn Ldr Banks said. “It is hard to leave such a fantastic high performing Squadron, the cadets are a credit to the ATC and to Hailsham Town, and I will certainly miss them and the Squadron”.
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