On Saturday, 1st November, a small contingent of cadets from 863 Cadets visited the RAF Air Defence Radar Museum at the former RAF Neatishead site in Norfolk. They were chauffeured with care by CI Crissall and were supervised throughout by both CI Millards. The outing proved to be highly instructive, engaging and memorable for all involved.

Cadets from across the Norfolk and Suffolk Wings gathered at RAF Marham this past weekend to take part in one of the most prestigious events on the Air Cadet calendar — the Annual Drill Competition. The day brought together squadrons from across the region in a proud display of discipline, teamwork, and tradition.

863 (Thurston) Squadron is excited to announce the return of our 863 Lottery – a fantastic way to support our cadets while giving yourself the chance to win cash prizes!

Following the morning’s/Afternoon Battle of Britain Parade, cadets from 863 (Thurston) Squadron and 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Squadron came together once more – this time not on parade, but on the football field. The match, played in the bright afternoon sunshine at Thurston HQ, proved to be the perfect way to round off a day of remembrance and camaraderie.

Today, the streets of Bury St Edmunds were filled with pride, tradition, and remembrance as 863 (Thurston) Squadron joined alongside 301 Squadron for the annual Battle of Britain Parade near Abbey Gardens.

The night began with a guided introduction to our squadron building. Cadets were shown the key rooms and facilities that they will come to know well during their training — from classrooms and stores to the parade square and social spaces.

After months of preparation, 863 (Thurston) Squadron proudly welcomed our potential new recruits to our annual Recruits Night. We had a really good showing of 20 plus, with both parents and recruits engaged throughout the evening.

Cadets from across Norfolk and Suffolk gathered at RAF Honington for a fantastic range day, where they had the opportunity to refresh their training and fire between 20 and 40 rounds on the 25-metre barrack range.

The Air Cadets is more than just an organisation – it is a family. Every uniform, every parade, and every challenge reminds us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves. What sets us apart is not just the opportunities we are given, but the way we come together to support one another, no matter the circumstances.

Yesterday, 863 (Thurston) Squadron took part in Elmsfest, the ever-popular family festival featuring a funfair, street food, local traders, live music, children’s activities, and charity stalls. Our outside stall proved to be a hit, with visitors trying their luck at the tombola, testing their reflexes on splat the rat, and aiming for success at sticky golf. Inside the hall, two of our flight simulators drew a steady stream of eager participants keen to take to the virtual