Joseph Kelly

CCF success for Abingdon pupil

Abingdon School pupil recognised as top CCF (RAF) cadet in the country

Posted by Stephanie Broad | May 08, 2016 | School life

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• #combined-cadet-force
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Eighteen year-old Abingdon School pupil, Joseph Kelly, has won two top awards from the RAF: the Sir John Thomson Memorial Sword winner for 2016 and the De Havilland Medal Winner 2016. 

Joseph is now considered the top CCF (RAF) cadet in the country.  

Commenting on this outstanding achievement, Joseph said: "I feel very fortunate to have had my service to the Abingdon School CCF recognised with this award. The CCF has been a major part of my life over the last five years and from it I have gained confidence, new skills and most importantly enjoyment. It is a privilege to be able to bring something like this back to the CCF as recognition not only of what I have done, but of what the CCF has done for me and for all the other cadets that have passed through the CCF over the last few years." 

Sqn Ldr Rebecca Cottam, who is the CCF Contingent Commander at Abingdon School, nominated Joseph for the award. Rebecca said: “This is a huge achievement for Joseph and is very well deserved, He will attend the Air Squadron Day in June where he will be parade commander and will be official presented with the sword and medal.” 

The Sir John Thomson Memorial Sword is awarded each year to the cadet judged to be the Best in the CCF (RAF) in the country. The cadets have to demonstrate the highest level of CCF commitment and involvement. Six cadets are short-listed for a final interview with Wing Commander CCF and from these candidates a winner is chosen. All six finalists attend the parade on Air Squadron Day, and are awarded a Geoffrey de Havilland Flying Foundation Medal for CCF Achievement in recognition of their achievements.