ABOUT 383 SQUADRON

The Air cadet Organisation (ACO)

The ACO is made up of two areas:

  • Royal Air Force Air Cadets - The RAFAC is the RAF’s cadet force, divided into six regions, 36 wings and more than 900 squadrons within communities around the UK.
  • Combined Cadet Force (RAF) – The CCF (RAF) is our section of the CCF which is made up of cadets from all three services, coming together in approximately 200 schools across the UK.

Jaguar-Tribute

Our aims are to:

  • Promote and encourage a practical interest in aviation and the Royal Air Force among young people
  • Provide training which will be useful in the Services and civilian life
  • Encourage the spirit of adventure and develop qualities of leadership and good citizenship

Get a head start

We are not a recruiting organisation for the RAF but if you’re thinking about a Service career, cadet membership will put you ahead of the competition. Many cadets go on to great success in the RAF (and the other Services). Around 40% of officers and 50% of all aircrew (including pilots, navigators and engineers) in the RAF now are ex-cadets. Research shows that they do better in basic training and stay in the Service longer than their colleagues. Likewise, if you chose a civilian career our research proves you can go on the great things…employers just love the skills and experience that air cadets offer.
Let’s face it – where else would you be given the opportunity to fly solo in a glider or powered aircraft when you’re 17? Whatever you do with your life, at the end of your time as a cadet you’ll be self-motivated, confident and ready for anything.

383 Squadron

Alloa 383 Squadron was established in 1978 by Flt. Lt. John Wynne RAF VR (T) as a detached Flight of the 1019 Stirling Squadron and was initially based in Church Street, Alloa.

Due to expansion in cadet numbers in the 1980’s the squadron moved into Bevan Huts and Alloa Academy before the Cadet Centre was opened on Whins Road on 8th January 1985. This has been the home of 383 Squadron ever since.

Flt. Lt. Wynne remained as Squadron Commander from 1985 until he retired in 1993 when he became a Civilian Instructor.

The Squadron Commanding Officers since 1993 are as follows:-

1993 – 1999 -  Flt. Lt. Maralyn McKay RAF VR (T)
1999 – 2002  -  Flt. Lt. Craig Hutchison RAF VR (T)
2002 – 2012 -  Flt. Lt. Ronnie MacLeod RAF VR (T)
2012 – Present  –  WO. Garry Henderson (ATC)