An Cosantóir

36 AIR CORPS HANDOVER CEREMONY By Comdt Peter Smyth Officer Commanding 102 Squadron On the 3rd of May 2022, I had the great privilege to fulfil the role of MC during the AC100 ceremony to mark the 100 year anniversary of Irish Troops taking control of Baldonnel Aerodrome. We now know this special location as Casement Aerodrome and the home of the Irish Air Corps. When I learned that I had been nominated to fulfil this role, I was very pleased to be able to play an active part in the day and contribute to this hugely significant event. To give context, 2022 has been a year like no other for all those serving in the Irish Air Corps. As we know, it marks our 100 year anniversary and we have commemorated this through a series of events throughout the year. In reality, this has meant that every single member of the Air Corps has been directly involved in some aspect of the commemorations and has played a vital role in recognising the importance of our centenary, and rightly so. Reflecting on my own experience on this particular day, I look back on it as a thoroughly enjoyable day, aided thankfully by favourable weather, but even more so by the energy and enthusiasm of those present. These were not only our own serving personnel taking part, but our many visitors who joined us to share in this special moment. Having already celebrated wonderfully earlier in March, the May ceremony gave the Air Corps a chance to welcome back our retired personnel to partake in our celebrations, and with great numbers present on the day, it added magnificently to the atmosphere. The Air Corps is and always has been the sum of its people…how better to celebrate our centenary than with as many of this fantastic group as possible. And importantly, it can never be forgotten, that as a nation we were still recovering from the COVID19 pandemic. Moments like this reminded us how such gatherings can never be taken for granted. I can say with certainty that we valued it, all the more for this. The ceremony itself was straightforward but like all things that look simple and natural, huge amounts of effort go on in the background to achieve this! The 3rd of May was no different and there was massive input from a number of key areas which allowed it all to come together successfully. In particular, I remember the Base Sgt Major, Jay Jordan and his highly effective organisation and guidance throughout… nothing was left to chance. The Parade Commander, Capt Overview of the Handover Parade

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