SIX teenagers from Dyfed have been appointed as the Lord-Lieutenant Cadets for 2021 at a virtual awards ceremony attended by nearly 100 people.

Cadet Sergeant Sam Barrett from Ammanford was among the six teens appointed by Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Dyfed, Miss Sara Edwards at her first ever virtual awards ceremony.

Also appointed was Leading Cadet Matthew Coburn from Tenby; Leading Cadet Alfie Anderson from Haverfordwest; Petty Officer Cadet Chris Harries from Dinas Cross; Cadet Warrant Officer Josh Richards from Haverfordwest and Cadet Warrant Officer Sarah Greenshields from Cardigan.

The six were selected for the prestigious Lord-Lieutenant’s cadet role, which will last for one year, after being put forward for nomination by cadet group leaders and the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales.

The role includes attendance with Miss Edwards, who acts as the Queen’s representative, at a number of official engagements, including Remembrance events, Royal visits and parades.

Miss Edwards said, “The Cadet Forces are truly amazing organisations, where the mixture of military training, youth work, civilian qualifications and community work helps develop our young people ready to take their place in society.

“Of course the Cadet Forces is not only down to the young people themselves. The Cadet Forces would not operate but for the superb dedication and commitment of the officers and adult volunteers who give up their free time to make the organisations work.”

The seven adult volunteers awarded certificates were Petty Officer (SCC) Deborah Farrow of Milford Haven Sea Cadet Corps; Major Dan Priddy and Mrs Angela Richards both of Dyfed & Glamorgan ACF; Sergeant Alecia Jackson, Flying Officer David Folder, Civilian Instructor Mrs Susan Davies and Civilian Instructor Mrs Michaela Webster all of No 3 Welsh Wing RAF Air Cadets.

There are more than 1,200 volunteers across Wales who help over 4,400 active Cadets. They provide opportunities and inspiration to the next generation. This is often delivered through life changing experiences, skills and qualifications.

Ammanford Air Cadets Squadron is currently running a recruitment drive.

Preparations are underway to welcome new recruits, which is open to youngsters age 13 – or at age 12 when starting school year eight – and 17 years.

Flying Office and Commanding Officer for Ammanford Squadron Aled Davies said: “The group is currently holding virtual meetings once a week. We host fun activities and games, including online quizzes for our young cadets.

“We are aware that lockdown can lead to a lot of mental health concerns, so we are actively focusing on wellbeing and mindfulness activities too.

“The cadet experience is open to every aged between 13 and 17 years. We have started a joining waiting list ready for when we are giving the go-ahead to reopen.”

For more information and joining details visit https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets/want-to-join/join-as-a-cadet/