The prestigious Cadet of the Year Award was presented to Cadet Sherwood, in recognition of her remarkable dedication and enthusiasm. Cdt Sherwood consistently represented the squadron with pride and embodied the true spirit of the Air Cadets. Her exceptional commitment, teamwork, and willingness to seize every opportunity made her an inspiring role model for her peers.
It was not just the Cadets who were recognised during the evening—staff were also celebrated for their contributions. The Commanding Officer’s Commendation was awarded to Pilot Officer Simon Cowdell, whose hard work and dedication have been integral to the squadron’s success. Through his unwavering support, Simon ensured Cadets made the most of every opportunity, keeping the squadron running smoothly and thriving throughout the year.
The evening also marked a key moment in the cadets’ progression, with several promotions announced. These promotions reflected the cadets’ dedication and readiness to take on greater responsibilities within the squadron, paving the way for the next generation of leaders.
The Commanding Officer of 461 (Chichester) Squadron, Flight Lieutenant Mark Sonsthagen, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity to bring together our squadron family and celebrate the many achievements of 2024. Our Annual Awards Evening isn’t just about trophies—it’s about recognising the spirit, growth, and community within our squadron. It’s a testament to the hard work of our cadets and staff that we’ve achieved so much this year.”
