Wing News
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CIVILIAN INSTRUCTOR RECOGNISED
FOR DofE SERVICE - posted 24-Feb-24 RAF Air Cadet Civilian Instructor Andy Vodden MBE has been
recognised for his dedicated service of over 50 years to the Duke of
Edinburgh Award Scheme by the Scheme organisers in the presentation of a
certificate marking the milestone. Although never a Cadet, Andy started as a Civilian Instructor at
2312 (Tavistock) Squadron in 1973, he says, “As a Civilian Instructor I have
always been proud of being a part of the RAFAC organisation and all of the
opportunities it gives to our Cadets, but I have always been particularly
proud of our participation in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award”. Andy has been involved with DofE since
he was 14 years of age and started his Bronze Award and after completing his
Silver and Gold Awards and meeting the late Duke of Edinburgh, he became
involved with the Royal Air Force Air Cadets and has been running DofE ever since. Over the years he has supported literally hundreds of young
people on their individual DofE journey and have
assessed many more for their Volunteering, Physical, Skills and Expedition
and at Gold their Residential. Commenting on his achievements Andy said, “One of my most memorable
achievements is having taken two Cadets through their Bronze, Silver and Gold
Awards, I have taken the son of one through his awards and the three
daughters of the other. I recognise that as society has changed DofE has also evolved and is as good for young people
today as it was when I started”. Andy was presented his certificate by Sector Commander, Squadron
Leader Kara Oliver, and the Wing Duke of Edinburgh Award Officer, Sergeant
John Oliver, both of whom completed their Duke of Edinburgh Awards under the
guidance of Andy. The citation read: - Today, we recognise and celebrate an incredible milestone, 50
years of dedicated service to The Duke of Edinburgh's Award which deserves
our utmost admiration and appreciation. For half a century Andy has
selflessly devoted his time, energy and passion supporting and guiding
countless young people on their individual journey of personal development
and growth. His unwavering commitment to DofE has undoubtably left an unforgettable mark on the lives of
those he has mentored. Throughout the years, Andy has inspired countless young people
to challenge themselves, push their boundaries and discover their truly
potential. His guidance and mentorship has not only instilled valuable life
skills, but has also fostered resilience, determination and a sense of purpose
and belonging in those he has guided. Andy's impact can be measured by the countless stories of
personal growth and transformation shared by generations of DofE participants. His commitment to empowering young
people and helping them realise their dreams has shaped the lives of
generations and contributed to building a brighter future. Today, we recognise our exceptional leader for his unwavering
dedication, passion and commitment to DofE. His
selflessness, perseverance and compassion have truly made a difference in the
lives of so many, leaving an enduring legacy in our young citizens. Please join me in expressing our heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to Andy on this momentous
occasion. Here's to 50 years of inspiring and empowering young individuals to
reach for the stars and turn their dreams into reality.
Left to
Right: Squadron Leader Kara Oliver, Civilian Instructor Andy Vodden, Sergeant
John Oliver
Certificate
of Recognition of 50 Years Service
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