59 Squadron and the ATC
59 (Huddersfield) Squadron, formed in February 1939, is one of 39 squadrons in South and West Yorkshire Wing, itself one of six wings in North Region.
Part of the Air Cadet Organization (ACO), the Air Training Corps is a voluntary youth organization supported by the Royal Air Force. The ATC is one of the country’s leading youth organizations and the world’s largest youth air training organization.
The ATC was formed by Royal Warrant in 1941 and sprang from the Air Defence Cadet Corps, founded in 1938 by the Air League. Although initially formed to meet the needs of a nation at war, the Corps continues to thrive. and there are now independent Air Cadet Organizations in many other countries throughout the World.
The Aims of the Air Training Corps are:
- to promote and encourage among young people a practical interest in aviation and the Royal Air Force.
- to provide training which will be useful in the Services and civilian life.
- to foster the spirit of adventure and develop qualities of leadership and good citizenship
The ATC Motto is: ‘Venture Adventure’.
The Air Training Corps is the largest operator of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme; not surprising as HRH Prince Philip is the ATC’s Commodore-in-Chief.
Air Cadets get the opportunity of flying in RAF and commercial aircraft, many progressing to achieve flying scholarships and their Private Pilots Licence (PPL).
The Corps, which has charitable status, is not a recruiting organization but many members do go on to have careers in the Royal Air Force, other Services or civilian life