48th FW hosts RAF cadets

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher S. Sparks
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  The Liberty Wing hosted more than 100 local Royal Air Force cadets for the annual Cadet Day event, May 30.

Cadet Day is an opportunity to provide young RAF cadets a chance to learn how the U.S. Air Force and RAF work together and gain a better understanding of the Liberty Wing’s mission.

“The Cadet Day at RAF Lakenheath is always popular,” said Stephanie Robins, RAF Lakenheath community relations advisor. “The cadets gets an opportunity to engage with our Airmen and see U.S. Air Force equipment up close. We look forward to meeting more cadets next year.”

Representatives from various career fields, such as the 48th Security Forces Squadron, the 493rd Fighter Squadron and the 48th Bioenvironmental Flight, were stationed in different areas at the event to answer any questions and demonstrate the equipment they brought.

“It’s important to showcase to RAF cadets what we do here on RAF Lakenheath because they are the future of the U.S. Air Force and RAF partnership,” said Staff Sgt. Taylor West, the NCO in charge of community engagement at the 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office.

The essence of the event is to inspire the RAF cadets to look towards the future for not only the RAF but the appreciation of the partnership and upcoming operations with the U.S. Air Force.

“It's always a pleasure to help young air-minded individuals see air power up close and sense the dynamics of the cooperation between the Royal Air Force and the U.S. Air Force,” said Squadron Leader Jerry Neild, RAF Lakenheath commander. “The visit was a foundation from which these youngsters might appreciate the truly significant increase in capabilities that is just around the corner.”