Monday 28 February 2011

News - Squadron history lost in blaze at HQ (Ilkeston)

AS the Air Cadets celebrates its 70th Anniversary this year so does local 348 (Ilkeston) Squadron.

The Ilkeston Squadron assembled for the first time on Friday, February 14, 1941 at the Drill Hall in Ilkeston.
The meeting was presided over by Mayor J Hoult and others present were Major T Roe, Ald FP Sudbury, councillors E Bostock and H Trueman, Messrs A Elder, SR Woods, AD Nash, T Ball, E Waterhouse (commanding officer), E Godfrey (treasurer) and J Tillett (secretary).

There was a large attendance on that first night with 150 enrolled into what was known as The Junior Department of the RAF.
The cadets were told to look for their orders in the local press, at the Town Hall and at the squadron headquarters, Ilkeston Secondary School.

Also it was decided to ask for funds to assist in the organization of the squadron.

The original squadron was disbanded in 1947 with 260 cadets enlisted.

The squadron was revived shortly after at its new headquarters on Hallcroft Road and again moved in 1983 to Dale View.

Due to a fire and the headquarters being burned down, 348 Squadron moved to its present location in the TA building in Albert Road.

Much of the history and records of the squadron were lost in the fire and we are appealing to anyone who may have stories or pictures of 348 to get in touch. The number to ring is 0115 9440848 (Tuesday or Thursday evenings).

David Tonge
Chairman
Civilian Committee
348 Squadron

 

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