Ely Air Cadet Harry Wick is a soaring success and has completed his training as a solo glider at the tender age of just 14.
Harry joined 1094 Ely Squadron Royal Air Force Air Cadets less than 18 months ago and this summer he has pursued his ambition of a career in aviation by attending Cambridge Gliding Club on weekends to learn how to fly.
Gliding is an all year-round sport but the hot rising thermal air currents of the summer bring the longest flights. Despite this summer's less than ideal conditions Harry persevered with his training under expert tutelage by the gliding club's instructors.
"Harry experienced the thrill of glider launches from powerful ground winches and from specialist powered towing aircraft soaring thousands of feet into the air for his flying lessons in a two-seater K21 Glider," explained Squadron Commanding Officer Flight Lieutenant John Donoghue RAFAC.
"Under the expert guidance of Cambridge Gliding Club' experienced instructors, Harry proved himself ready to spread his wings
"After 46 launches Harry took to the skies on his own as the captain of his own aircraft for the very first time, a moment that every pilot remembers for the rest of their lives.
"Harry was given the green light to go solo by Andy Beatty, a consummate instructor and experienced pilot."
Aa well as gaining his British Gliding Association certification as a solo glider pilot, Harry has been presented with his Civilian Gliding Wings badge Flight Lieutenant Donoghue.
"This came as a wonder surprise to us all, Harry has been powered flying this summer with the Royal Air Force in the RAF's basic trainer the Grob Tutor so last weekend when he told me he could come Gliding with us I had no idea he was taking his first solo flight.
"Our cadets have the opportunity to go solo and earn their RAFAC Wings in RAF trainer aircraft and RAF Gliders but to go solo at the age of just 14 and wear your Civilian Wings in uniform is a rare achievement and one to be applauded.
"Congratulations Harry and we know you will wear those wings with pride."
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