Protest as RAF leader axed
Air cadets from Telford have protested in the street after their commanding officer was removed from his job. Air cadets from Telford have protested in the street after their commanding officer was removed from his job. Cadets, ex-cadets, parents and instructors are calling for Flight Lieutenant Jeremy Gardner to be reinstated. See our photo gallery here They claim the Telford CID officer known as "Jez" has been treated unfairly. Flight Lieutenant Gardner, 37, a recent winner of the Shropshire Star's Telford Champion Awards, has been a driving force at Wellington-based 1130 (Telford & Wrekin) Air Cadet Squadron for the past 10 years. He led it to the title of best squadron in the UK in 2003 and helped it grow in membership from 25 to 95. But on Thursday he was called over to RAF Cosford and removed from his post. For the full story see today's Shropshire Star
Air cadets from Telford have protested in the street after their commanding officer was removed from his job.
Cadets, former cadets, parents and instructors are calling for Flight Lieutenant Jeremy "Jez" Gardner to be reinstated. They say he is a community hero, the inspiration for generations of young people, and claim he has been treated unfairly by his air force bosses.
Flight Lieutenant Gardner, 37, a recent winner of the Shropshire Star's Telford Champion Awards, has been a driving force of Wellington-based 1130 (Telford & Wrekin) Air Cadet Squadron for the past 10 years.
He led it to the title of best squadron in the UK in 2003 and helped it grow in membership from 25 to 95.
But on Thursday he was called over to RAF Cosford and removed from his post.
Councillor Denis Allen, chairman of the squadron's civilian committee, said: "All involved with the squadron are devastated."
Cadet Warrant Officer Craig Manley, 18, led last night's banner-waving protest outside squadron headquarters in King Street, and has started a group called Bring Back Jez Gardner on the social networking website, Facebook.
He said: "Jez has been a fantastic role model and we are mystified as to why they should get rid of him."
Flight Lieutenant Gardner was not available for comment. But his brother Scott, a civilian instructor with the squadron, speaking on his behalf, said he wanted to thank everyone for their support.
"He has vowed to take his fight to the Air Force Board if required. He has asked that cadets all work together and don't let the squadron fold."
An MOD spokesman said today: "The Air Cadet Organisation has been in discussion with Flight Lieutenant Gardner regarding his ATC career.
"Flight Lieutenant Gardner is currently considering a number of options regarding his ATC career, but has yet to make his decision.
"It would be inappropriate for us to discuss the details as it is an internal management issue."
