The Princess of Wales has penned a “heartfelt” letter to the Air Cadets as the youth organisation celebrates its 85th anniversary.
Catherine has been the Royal Honorary Air Commandant of the Air Cadets since she took over the role from Prince Philip in December 2015.
The prince had worked with them for 63 years before he handed over the role to the princess.
In her message, she wrote: “As Royal Honorary Air Commandant of the Air Cadets, I wanted to extend my heartfelt congratulations during this anniversary year, as the organisation marks 85 years since its inception.
The Princess of Wales penned a celebratory message to the Royal Airforce Air Cadets as they celebrate their 85th anniversary
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“This significant milestone is clearly testament to the Air Cadets’ proud heritage and enduring commitment to inspiring the next generation of aviation and aerospace professionals.
“This anniversary also offers a chance to reflect on how RAFAC has evolved into a modern youth organisation, giving opportunities for young people to discover traditional skills and emerging technologies.
“Not only this, but it helps them develop into more rounded and connected young people, contributing to wider society and helping to build their confidence for the future.
“It is clear that RAFAC would not have achieved so much over the last 85 years without the dedication of its volunteers and staff, who give so much of their time, energy, and experience to support over 46,000 cadets.
“They help our young people to build strong futures, while also contributing to the needs of the Royal Air Force and partner industries.”
Catherine concluded by saying: “Once again, this comes with my sincere congratulations to everyone involved in the Air Cadets.
“I am enormously proud to serve as your Royal Honorary Air Commandant, and hope you will be able to celebrate accordingly.
“The resilience, innovation and community spirit shown by volunteers, staff and cadets alike are what makes RAFAC the special group that it is. Here’s to the next 85 years of continued growth!”
The Princess of Wales been the Royal Honorary Air Commandant of the Air Cadets since 2015
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The Air Cadets shared the message on their social media, and expressed their thanks to the Princess of Wales, saying: “In her letter, Her Royal Highness recognises the tireless dedication of our adult volunteers and permanent staff since the Corps’ formation in 1941.
“We thank you @princeandprincessofwales, for your dedication to the organisation many of us hold dear.”
Catherine has had a close affiliation with the RAF, even more so following Prince William’s service with the Search and Rescue Force.
Her grandfather, Peter Middleton, was also an RAF fighter pilot who served in World War II and later Prince Philip’s co-pilot during a two-month tour of South America in 1962.
In October, she visited RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, where she viewed a Typhoon and completed a loop-the-loop on a virtual flight simulator.
Catherine visited RAF Coningsby and was able to see a Typhoon
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During the visit, she was heard telling crowds that Prince Louis “fancies becoming a pilot.”
She added: “I’m going to tell them it takes eight years and a lot of hard work!”