Wing News

WING COMMANDER REACHES ARMED FORCES AWARDS - posted 05-May-20

The Officer Commanding of Plymouth & Cornwall Wing, Wing Commander Frances Reis has become a finalist in the Plymouth Armed Forces Awards in the category of Advocate of the Year. Leading and managing 23 squadrons across the Plymouth and West Devon area as well as Cornwall. Raised and educated in Cornwall, joined Plymouth University (then Plymouth Polytechnic) in March 1977 as an apprentice photographer, remaining at the university until August 2015, having gained promotion to a senior manager as Head of Marketing Operations. As part of this role he developed links across the city with many organisations big and small, especially with the city council. Francis joined 1225 (St Blazey) DF ATC in 1973, completing his cadet career in 1978. He then joined the volunteer staff as Civilian Instructor until 1989, when he was commissioned into the RAFVR (T) as Pilot Officer. On commissioning he moved to 1225 (St Austell) Sqn, followed by a period at 2174 (Estover) Sqn before taking command at 2377 (Plympton) Sqn in 1991 as a Flight Lieutenant, in 2001 he moved to 197 (Devonport) Sqn to take command and see it move in to new purpose built premises. Promoted to Wing Staff Post in 2005 and to the rank of Squadron Leader in 2008, taking on the role of Media Communications Officer and Sector Commander duties. In 2009 he received CinC’s award as part of the New Hons list. He has also been awarded the Cadet Forces medal with three bars. He was awarded an AOC’s commendation in the Queen’s Birthday list in June 2019 Francis assumed command of Plymouth & Cornwall Wing in July 2011, his command has been extend to July 2023.