AFTER half a century of dedicated service with the Air Training Corps, Brian Lowe recently retired and was rewarded with a special presentation in Okehampton. Brian joined the ATC as a cadet more than 50 years ago and enjoyed it so much he stayed on as an adult volunteer officer throughout his working life. He first joined the ATC in 1954 as a member of the Newquay Squadron, and went on to become the first cadet warrant officer in the whole of Cornwall. He was commissioned into the RAF volunteer reserves (training) in 1960. Brian has been with the 2443 Squadron Okehampton Air Cadets for the last two years, after previously being stationed at St Ives and at Newquay. He has also had spells as a gliding instructor and wing staff officer. In the last 50 years, Brian estimates he has visited or stayed on a remarkable 43 RAF bases, of which two were in Germany. He was awarded the Lord Lieutenant of Devon?s certificate in 1987 and received the Defence?s Council?s letter of appreciation. Brian has agreed to stay on with the squadron in a civilian capacity ? he will no longer be a uniform member or take part in parades, but he will continue to help and share his experience with new recruits. Brain?s family are continuing the RAF tradition; his son Richard is a pilot at RAF Brize Norton, where he flies a VC10. His daughter Katherine also hopes to join the RAF soon. Okehampton ATC cadets meet on Mondays between 6pm and 9.30pm. For more information telephone 01837 55044. Brian was presented with a squadron plaque by new CO Philip Mingham, before a recent ATC drill night. Picture by Ian Snell
