Wing News

SERVICE RECOGNISED IN QUEEN'S BIRTHDAY HONOURS - posted 10-Oct-20

Congratulations to all those recognised in The Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Among those honoured was Squadron Leader Mike Symons, former Wing Commander of Plymouth & Cornwall Wing Air Training Corps (ATC who has been made a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE).

Mike has devoted his life to working with young people through the Air Training Corps from when he was a cadet with 2174(Sutton High School)Sqn, then IN 1978 being commissioned from a Cadet Warrant Officer with the same squadron in the then Plymouth Wing.

It went on to become Officer Commanding 2174Squadron, he not only moved the squadron to Estover when the Grammar School closed down and site was given up, he helped fund raise to build the new one at the Estover Comprehensive School.

He was promoted to Squadron Leader under Wing Commander Tim Johns leadership of Plymouth & Cornwall Wing taking various Wing Staff roles and then succeeded him as Officer Commanding Plymouth & Cornwall Wing in 1999 and handed over to Wing Commander Reis in July 2011.

Squadron Leader Symons' dedication to the organisation saw him remain serving as the Wing Special Projects Officer, organising many major events, a role he continues to hold as well as a Sector Commander for Plymouth and Squadron Commander of 335 (Saltash) Squadron, serving the Wing with the same vigour as when he started his apprenticeship as a cadet..

Mike said: "I am delighted and honoured to be recognised. It was a total surprise. It has been an absolute privilege to volunteer with the ATC for over 42 years."

Officer Commanding of Plymouth & Cornwall Wing, Wing Commander Francis Reis said, ". Mike, Toni and Rebecca and all the family must be truly proud of that you have done to deserve this honour and I know your parents would also be delighted for you.

Many congratulations and heartfelt thanks from Plymouth & Cornwall Wing for all that you continue to do for the RAFAC".