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History of the Air Training Corps
The Air Cadet movement owes much of its existence to Air Commodore J A Chamier, who is known as "The father of the air cadet movement."
In 1938 the Air Defence Cadet Corps (ADCC) was formed. The idea behind the Corps was to recruit and train young men in aviation skills. Each Squadron's aim was to prepare cadets for joining the RAF or the Fleet Air Arm. They provided training in flying, military skills and instructed them in drill, dress and discipline.
During the early stages of World War II, the government realised the quality of the ADCC Cadets entering the RAF and Fleet Air Arm. It was so impressed that the ADCC was asked to begin training the young men who were waiting to be called into Service.
In 1940 the British Government took over control of the ADCC. This resulted in a number of changes to the Corps, and brought about the birth of a completely new organisation, called the Air Training Corps. On 5th February 1941 the Air Training Corps (ATC) was officially established, with King George VI agreeing to be the Air Commodore-in-Chief, and issuing a Royal Warrant setting out the Corps' aims.
Although initially formed to meet the needs of a nation at war, the Corps continues to thrive as it enters the 21st Century. Today it continues to thrive and helps a new generation of young people, aged 13 to 20, to find a positive purpose in life.
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