No. 2 Overseas (Gibraltar) Squadron, Royal Air Force Air Cadets Marks 40th Anniversary

No. 2 Overseas (Gibraltar) Squadron, Royal Air Force Air Cadets commemorated its 40th anniversary with a special service at King’s Chapel, attended by His Excellency, Lieutenant General Sir Benjamin Bathurst, along with invited guests, including former staff members.
A statement from British Forces Gibraltar follows below:
The service was led by the Squadron’s Honorary Padre, Chris Rushden, and Father Danny Hernandez. A key moment of the event was the unveiling and dedication of the Squadron’s new banner. Group Captain John Kane, Chief of Staff, addressed the congregation, highlighting the benefits of being a cadet, including the valuable experiences, skills, and lifelong friendships that the program fosters. He also acknowledged the Squadron’s ongoing support for the Ministry of Defence and the local community.
Cadet Corporal Hannah Caward Madeira shared her personal experiences in the Squadron, recalling the thrill of her first glider launch and the excitement of overcoming leadership challenges—such as crossing rivers of “shark-infested custard.” As the banner bearer for the service, she reflected on the significance of the role:
“It was a great honour to be the first cadet to parade the new banner,” she said. “I was incredibly nervous this morning, but everything went according to plan.”
Flight Lieutenant Ivan Caward, Officer Commanding, emphasized the Squadron’s evolution over the years:
“A lot has changed since we first started parading, and we continue to adapt with the times. We now have state-of-the-art flight simulators and an IT hub—something we could only have dreamed of a few years ago! Our syllabus has also expanded, with staff now trained to teach new subjects, from basic radio communication to cyber-related topics, including space and rocketry. Cadets can even earn progressive badges and certificates in these fields. The Air Cadets’ motto once said, ‘The sky’s the limit,’ but we are going beyond that now!”
The event served as a celebration of the Squadron’s legacy, growth, and commitment to shaping the next generation of cadets.
Latest News
- Minister Arias-Vasquez to Host Constituency Clinic on Friday 9th May
- GMWS Welcomes the Sixth Annual Report of the Mental Health Board
- Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Gibraltar Bronze Qualifying Adventurous Journey
- Gibraltar Businesses Invited to Join “Beat Plastic Pollution” Shop Window Competition for World Environment Day
- Public Encouraged to Use Formal GHA Complaints Channels for Official Complaints
- Government Sends Condolences on the Passing of Pope Francis
- Survey Finds Almost 80% of Local Population Gambles
- Message From The Bishop Of Gibraltar On The Death of Pope Francis
- New Principal Auditor Faces Herculean Task Says GSD
- Phil Sharman Appointed As Principal Auditor