Wing News

60 YEARS OF SERVICE - posted 04-Jul-25

This weekend is a momentous occasion for a member of the Wing, after 60 years of service, 55 of which have been commissioned, Squadron Leader Tim Johns OBE has decided to step back from uniformed service within the Royal Air Force Air Cadets and resign his commission.

Over this time Tim has seen and done many things within the ATC / RAFAC and been instrumental in leading the way on shooting / skill at arms, not only in Plymouth & Cornwall Wing but also at Region and Corps level.

Tim took the first step into uniform back in 1965 when he became a cadet at 1225 Sqn ATC. In October 1970 he moved squadrons and joined 730 (City of Truro) Squadron ATC as a Civilian Instructor, and yes with his brown overcoat and blue CI arm band!

He then commissioned as a Pilot Officer RAF VR(T) in July 1971. Tim remained at 730 Sqn until September 1979 by which time he had gained the rank of Flight Lieutenant.

Tim then moved across to take on a Wing Staff Officer role within Plymouth & Cornwall Wing where he later achieved the rank of Sqn Ldr and then followed a swift promotion to Wing Commander, a post which he held until July 1999. Following this role Tim became heavily involved with the shooting world, becoming the Plymouth & Cornwall Wing Shooting Officer until early 2025 with the rank of Sqn Ldr.

However, the fantastic news is that Tim is not leaving us or hanging up his ear defenders. He will become a Civilian Instructor at 730 Sqn supporting all of the activities that he is able to, at both Sqn and Wing level.

Officer Commanding Plymouth & Cornwall Wing, Wing Commander Pete Ward, along with the whole Wing thanks Sqn Ldr Johns for his 60 years’ service to the ATC and now RAFAC and for his devotion to every role he has held, ensuring that cadets and staff within the Plymouth & Cornwall Wing and further afield got the very best experience they could, and to wish him all the best in his new role as a Civilian Instructor.

Squadron Leader Johns OBE (seen right) receiving Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee Medal

Sqn Ldr Johns OBE on the range