AIR TRAINING CORPS

Timaru Herald, Volume CLI, Issue 22185, 31 January 1942, Page 4

AIR TRAINING CORPS

Timaru Squadron Initial Parade The initial parade of the recently formed Timaru Town Unit, or, as it is technically described, the No. 15 Squadron of the Air Training Corps, was held at the Timaru Technical College last night, when preliminary work in organisation of the Squadron, which comprises youths from 164 too 18 years, was carried out. Thirty-two cadets have already been enrolled and passed as medically fit. Eighteen prospective recruits were also present, nine of whom appeared before the Selection Board which sat after the parade. Last night the cadets were divided into groups according to their ages and educational standards, and the serious work of the Squadron will commence at the weekly parades beginning next Thursday. With the interest shown in the Corps it is hoped it will not be long before the Squadron teaches its full complement of 200 cadets. Enlistments are being received at the Technical College. Flying Officer G. A. Thompson, officer commanding the Timaru Squadron, was in charge of the parade, which was attended by Squadron Leader W. H. Shepherd, South Island Divisional Commander, and Flying Officer A. Poulsen, Area Adjutant for Canterbury. Importance of Discipline Addressing the cadets. Squadron Leader Shepherd conveyed the congratulations and good wishes of the Commandant, Wing Commander G. A. Nicholls, to the Timaru Squadron on its formation. Squadron Leader Shepherd explained the aims and objects of the Air Training Corps and emphasised the invaluable service it could render to the Empire. It was the junior branch of the junior service of the Defence Forces, but, nevertheless, there was no reason why the junior service could not be the most efficient. The Importance of discipline was emphasised as the highest efficiency could not be obtained without a high standard of discipline. Referring to the syllabus of instruction Squadron Leader Shepherd said that the subject matter was not only extremely interesting but provided an invaluable training in aviation which it was impossible to get in any other way. Flying Officer Poulsen, who has returned from service overseas, confirmed Squadron Leader Shepherd’s remarks concerning the great value of the training offered to Air Training Corps cadets. The Air Force training stations were anxiously looking forward to the time when they would welcome Air Training Corps cadets into the flying schools to complete their Air Force education, and it was the duty of the cadets to see that they did not let the Corps down. He pointed out that it would be necessary for them to take part in some organised games at the week-end with a view to fitting themselves for strenuous work ahead. Swimming Essential Flying Officer Thompson expressed a hope that the cadets would thoroughly enjoy the course of training that was being offered to them. It was essential for every cadet to learn to swim well, and Timaru, with Caroline Bay, and the numerous swimming baths, offered plenty of scope to achieve proficiency. Mr A. Calder, physical welfare officer for the Department of Internal Affairs, who will be responsible for the training of the Corps, also attended the parade.