In September West Midland RFCA held their first briefing of the year in the very impressive Hangar One at RAF Museum, Cosford. The afternoon event attracted over 100 people including local employers, mayors, councillors, schools and Association members.
The guests were welcomed with tea and coffee before sitting down for the presentations. The compere for the afternoon was Michael Collie, of BBC fame, who kept the event running smoothly. After an introduction by the RFCA’s Chief Executive, Colonel Richard Maybery, the first speaker was Warrant Officer Class 1 O’Gara from 4th Battalion The Mercian Regiment. He gave an overview of the regiment and their postings and then his team showcased the equipment the unit uses.
The next two presentations were by cadets, both of whom had been finalists in this year’s CVQO Westminster Award. First up was Major Chloe Edwards, a Cadet Company Sergeant from Shropshire Army Cadet Force. Chloe spoke about her many achievements during her time with cadets including being chosen as one of the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadets for a year and her selection weekend for the CVQO Westminster Awards.
Baljodh Singh from Holly Lodge Combined Cadet Force was next up with highlights of his adventures abroad, and the honour of laying a wreath at the Cenotaph and flowers for the forgotten Soldiers at Westminster Abbey on Remembrance Day 2018.
Michael Collie chatted with Charlotte Wilde from Q3 Academy and Corporal Allen Stabler, a Reservist from No. 605 (County of Warwick) Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force who also works at Q3 Academy, to find out more about the benefits to a company employing a Reservist and what the company can offer Reservists who work for their organisation.
Warrant Officer John Thacker from Royal Naval Engagement Team gave a highlight of the Royal Navy’s activities and operations.
The presentation element was concluded with an Armed Forces Covenant Signing by Jonathan Lee Recruitment, who wanted to make a public declaration of their commitment to the Armed Forces.
The whole event concluded with a lovely afternoon tea and networking, following which everyone was free to depart or take a look around the museum.
All in all the event was a highlight of the West Midland RFCA calendar.
You can find details of similar briefings, employer engagement events, open days and much more on our events calendar here.
