22 Sqn SAR Visit
On Thursday 7th August, as part of the Squadron Annual Summer Camp, cadets and staff from 2469 (Exeter St Thomas) squadron were treated to a tour of the local Search and Resues (SAR) Unit for Devon - based at the Royal Marine Unit Chivenor.
The day started early with a mini-bus journey to the North devon, ex-RAF Station, and upon arrival, the cadets were greeted by some of the ground staff who, after introducing themselves, brought everyone into the briefing room to watch a short film explaining the current role of the Sea King helicopter, and how the SAR Force operates.
The Sea King (SAR) Helicopter
Once the film had ended the cadets were led into the main operational area of the building to be shown the route planning area, the methods of predicting weather, and the best times and locations to fly, together with the Air Traffic Control and Scramble Alert equipment. Cadet Furey said "It was good to meet some of the team behind getting the aircraft into the air, and the equipment that they used was very interesting."
Having been shown how the ground staff work, the cadets then explored the hanger that was home to the two Sea King HAR3/3A helicopters that operste from 'A Flight' at Chivenor. Some cadets asked the staff what 'all the sticky-out bits' were on the outside of the famous yellow aircraft, to be told that all of the componemts helped to meet the operational requirements of the Search and Rescue Unit, such as the infra-red video detection pod, the search radar, winch and first aid equipment. The cadets were also shown the main controls of the cockpit, to which cadet Furey remarked "it was really exciting to view the Sea king and play around with all the equipment and controls."
Some of the staff and cadets at 22 Sqn
Unfortunately, 22 squadron were unable to offer the cadets an Air Experience Flight, due to pre-existing commitments, however, even though one or two cadets had visited the unit before, an interesting time was had by all.
Report compiled and submitted by
Cdt Sgt Matthew Hobday
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