Air cadets backing for poppy appeal

On Saturday 20 local Air Cadets and staff turned out to assist the Royal British Legion, Scotland, Cumbernauld Branch for the National Poppy Appeal in Cumbernauld Town Centre and the Antonine Centre.

The money raised at the weekend will go to boost the much needed funds to support those who need help after suffering injury etc, from serving in many conflicts around the world.

This has been a very poignant year for the Squadron where the cadets have been involved in constructing the new Memorial and Peace Garden commemorating the centenary of the First World War and researching famous battles of World War One for information boards for the garden.

Squadron Commander, Flight Lieutenant Stevie Cairns said,” It was humbling to see so many cadets turn up on a Saturday to sell poppies and help raise much needed funds for those in need, and is by far the biggest attendance for this event in many years.

The cadets were great ambassadors for the Royal British Legion Scotland where they spoke to members of the public and told them of the new Memorial and Peace Garden”.

Flt Lt Cairns also said that “this is volunteering at its best as the cadets gain valuable experience and contributes to their community section for their Duke of Edinburgh Awards and Saltire Awards.

“I and my staff are extremely proud of them all and that these young people show that the youth of today have a lot to give to their communities”.

Mr Dave Lewis the Poppy Appeal Coordinator for the local Legion Branch thanked the Squadron for all of their valuable assistance and support over the years and hopes that this will continue as the staff and cadets contribute a lot to each appeal.