CHIEF OF AIR STAFF INSPECTS WIGRAM

Press, Volume C, Issue 29673, 17 November 1961, Page 17

CHIEF OF AIR STAFF INSPECTS WIGRAM

"I am very proud of the itoyai New Zealand Air Force and I think it was a jolly good parade. I think it showed that we have serving m the Air Force, and still coming in, the finest type of young fellow in the country.” said the Chief of Air Staff i Air-Vice Marshal M. F. Calder) yesterday. Air Vice-Marshal Calder had just reviewed a parade of the entire 856 personnel of Wigram air force station, apart from those on essential duties. He arrived by air from WelimgOon and landed at Wigrarn shortly after 11 a.m., and went tn a large hangar where the personnel of the station were drawn up on parade. After inspecting the men he presented Air Officer Commanding's Commends-

tions to two men, and Long Service and Good Conduct medals to 14 others. The commendations were presented to Warrant Officer T. P. O’Connor and Flight Sergeant T. H. McGowan. Those receiving Long Service and Good Conduct medals were Flight Sergeants N. O. Whitt. R. A. Taylor, and A. T. Sindlen. Sergeant <W) W. E. Fleming. Sergeant (W) J. J. G. Mould and Sergeants D J. Cuddihy. W. J. Arnel. M. F. Webb. F. D. Morgan. M. G. Blackwell. J. Steenson. L. F. King, F. H. Grant and Corporal R. L. Beaton. He did not think anyone could say the Air Force had had a “fat” year, said the Air Vice-Marshal. They bad been told 75 Squadron was to come back from Malaya; and this would mean 14 Squadron would have to take on some of their duties. He hoped the reduction would not last too long. The new officer cadet training scheme which had been announced would make a considerable difference to the future of the Air Force. It meant those interested in a service career, but also wishing to have some academic training, could now do so. An officer cadet would be able to take a full university course up to degree stage. Afterwards Air-Vice Marshal Calder said it was encouraging the Prime Minister (Mr Holyoake) had said the Royal New Zealand Air Force was not to be neglected. The Minister of Defence (Mr Eyre) had also given encouragement. During the afternoon the Air-Vice Marshal inspected the camp itself, and this morning he is to fly back to Wellington.