"The most rewarding part is seeing the cadets grow confidence in themselves."
Christian Freer, Harrogate Sea Cadets
Volunteer stories
They've each had different journeys to becoming cadet force adult volunteers. But here they explain their motivations and what they see as the rewards of the role.
"Coming into an organisation like the air cadets where you're giving something back, helps to develop yourself as an individual."
Zia Mir, training officer, 110 (City of York) Squadron
"You don't need any qualifications, you get all the training you need when you join. It's a big part of my life and I wouldn't want to give it up."
Gianluca Gaudisoi, officer commanding, 110 (City of York) Squadron
"You see cadets improve their skills, teamwork, communication, and empathy - that is really rewarding."
Sarah Rothwell, cadet force adult volunteer, Read School CCF
"I have an immense sense of pride in being in the ACF and being one of it's cadet volunteers."
Vicki Brooks, cadet volunteer, Humberside and South Yorkshire ACF
"It's an awful lot of fun to experience things like gorge walking or mountain biking in the same way cadets are challenged."
Elaine Stephens, contingent commander, Manor Church of England CCF
"Since I joined I have seen the real difference that being an air cadet makes to young people in my community."
William Ainsley, consultant at Calderdale and Huddersfield Foundation NHS Trust
“There is nothing like watching the progress the cadets make during their time with us."
Clare Crebbin, officer commanding, 58 (Harrogate) Squadron