PLANS to re-open Pembroke and Pembroke Dock’s 1574 Air Cadet Squadron are storming ahead following the appointment of ex-cadet and former airman Kris Butler as Squadron adjutant.

Kris, a former Pembroke School pupil and 1574sqn cadet before joining the Royal Air Force has recently gone back into uniform after hearing that his former squadron had fallen on difficult times and had temporarily closed.

A chance meeting with the squadron padre Pamela Passmore and Kris’ father, the former mayor of Pembroke Dennis Evans, gave Kris the impetus to come forward.

“Upon hearing that my former squadron had closed, I was extremely concerned,” said Kris. “Having previously been a cadet, I knew the great work and contribution the squadron made to the community. I was also worried that with the reduction of RAF presence in South/West Wales that the historic link with the RAF and Pembroke Dock would be lost. The Air Training Corp has helped many youngsters over the years (me included), and I decided that the town could not afford to lose this valuable youth resource”.

With the support of wife Cath, Kris has recently been appointed as a Sgt (ATC) adult instructor and is currently training with 2420 (Whit-land) squadron in preparation to re-launch 1574 Sqn.

Sqn Ldr Mark Rosser will initially stand as the Officer Commanding, with control being passed to Kris at a point in the future.

Kris has been very active over the last two months, engaging with local councils, Pembroke School and long-time squadron supporters, The Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre.

“During my recent attendance at the Sunderland Trust’s Cockpit open ceremony, It was evident from speaking to locals how 1574sqn was a part of the fabric of the town, with people recounting memories of their time in the Air Cadets,” said Kris. “I have been overwhelmed by the support from local dignitaries and the Sunderland Trust, and fol-lowing conversations with staff at Air Cadet Wing HQ in Swansea, it has been agreed that the squadron will re-open hopefully in late June following the Armed Force Day event at the Heritage Centre, where we will be recruiting.”

The Heritage Centre Armed Forces Day event takes place on June 24.

Kris and Sqn Ldr Rosser have also had offers from several ex-cadets, who have come forward to offer their services as adult staff, ensuring that activities and training can be delivered to cadets. “The Air Cadets offers a huge variety of activities for youngsters, with literally some-thing for everyone,” said Kris. “It teaches youngsters self-reliance, discipline and community spirit and gives them insights into life in the Royal Air Force by attending camps and courses. Many also believe that being in the Cadets, then requires you to join the armed forces - this is not true. Many local ex-cadets have gone onto rewarding careers in both the armed services and Civilian Street.”

1574 (Pembroke) Sqn is located behind Lidl Supermarket on Pier Road Pembroke Dock. The squadron is open to boys and girls between 13yrs -17yrs. Parade times will be shortly announced.