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.

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.

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.

The morning air at RAF Cranwell buzzed with anticipation. For twelve cadets of 863 (Thurston) Squadron, today was no ordinary day — today, they would fly. Names were read out in groups, each one met with a mixture of nerves and excitement:

Today at 863 (Thurston) Squadron, cadets gathered for an important step in their training — the Weapons Handling Test (WHT). The session was hosted by SGT Hudson, whose clear instruction and professional approach ensured that all attendees had the best possible opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills safely.

Are you looking for something that combines fun, friendship, and personal growth? Becoming an Air Cadet can be one of the most rewarding experiences for young people.

On Wednesday 27 August 2025, cadets from 863 (Thurston) Squadron set off from HQ at 07:30, brimming with energy. Even though the journey to Milton Keynes Snozone was slowed by heavy traffic, morale stayed high, and the cadets were buzzing with anticipation.

nvited and hosted by the Station Commander, on 1st July 2025 I had the honour of attending the blessing ceremony for RAF Honington’s new gate guard - Tornado GR4 ('twin stick') registration ZG752.

At our 863 (Thurston) Squadron formal Annual Dinners we always try to follow RAF traditions and etiquette where pragmatically possible.

At 863 (Thurston) Squadron, we are incredibly proud of our cadets’ hard work and dedication as they reach new milestones and acquire skills

At 863 (Thurston) Squadron, we are incredibly proud of our cadets’ hard work and dedication as they reach new milestones and acquire skills

The second day of our Recruit Training Camp (RTC) was nothing short of phenomenal. From qualification successes to thrilling activities and

This night marked a monumental occasion for 863 (Thurston) Squadron as our newest recruits completed their journey, transitioning from ...

At 863 (Thurston) Squadron, we are incredibly proud of our cadets’ hard work and dedication as they reach new milestones and acquire skills

At 863 (Thurston) Squadron, we are incredibly proud of our cadets’ hard work and dedication as they reach new milestones and acquire skills

At 863 (Thurston) Squadron, we are incredibly proud of our cadets’ hard work and dedication as they reach new milestones and acquire skills

his week marked an important milestone for our newest recruits, as they received their official blue uniforms and embarked on their journey

Today marked a significant milestone for our new recruits with the arrival of the long-awaited blue uniform. In the background, our...

Concluding on 30th October, three committed cadets from 863 (Thurston) Squadron—SGT Colinwood-Hall, CPL Weeks, and CDT Trumpess—wrapped up

On Day 13 of the New Recruits Diary, the cadets at 863 (Thurston) Squadron delved into the essentials of uniform upkeep, with a focus on