Flight Lieutenant Lynton Dudgeon DipHE RAFVR(T) 
I have the pleasure of my association with 70 (Croft & Culcheth) Squadron ATC as both cadet and commissioned officer, some may simply say as man and boy. I like many other former cadets that have now become part of the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (Training) branch, hold fond memories of what the Air Cadet Organisation (ACO) can do for young people. For example a cadet of age 16 can gain a qualification to fly solo in a glider, before they can hold a UK driving licence.
I started cadets as a shy 13.5 year old boy and can remember walking into the entrance hall of LXX House, more affectionally known as Squadron Headquarters (SHQ) and wondered if I would ever fit in. After a very short period of time, the other members of the unit worked to ensure that I felt a valued member of the Squadron and from that point onwards I felt part of the “Family”. As a cadet I had the fortune of getting involved in many of the various activities offered by the ACO, from gaining my Gold D of E Award to experiencing flying in the aircraft of the RAF, from attending Adventure Training Camps, to attending a camp at RAF Rheindalen in Germany.
The link that the unit enjoys with 70 Squadron Royal Air Force, or as we name them “Our Big Brother” is second to none and a link that I hope will exist well into the future.
On leaving the ACO as a cadet I decided I wanted to put something back and give young people the same opportunities I had experienced as a cadet. I gained my commission in 1999, taking up my first posting as a Course Commander at 146 (Northwich) Squadron. From there onwards I served at units in Stockport, Warrington and eventually took up the post as Officer Commanding 70 Squadron ATC in 2002. I was educated at Liverpool University and now work as an Area Sales Director with a UK house builder. I have no children of my own, probably because I don’t have time!!!!
I am proud to have the privilege to Command such an excellent Squadron and work with committed members of staff and cadets alike; especially when members of the unit are successful in joining HM Forces. Please take the time to contact us and learn more about the ACO and 70 Squadron ATC.