Extract from Fiona’s Speech to Sandbach Air Training Corps Annual Dining In Night, The Chimney House Hotel, February 2012
“I want to be serious very serious for a moment, Air Cadets.
There is a war on. Not a physical war. You can’t even see it. But it is a very real war. It is a war to steal the heart and soul of our nation. It is a war to steal and waste the lives of our young people in this generation, wasting time in so many negative ways.
You know them – some of them better than I in some respects I guess, with your understanding of technology and its less negative aspects and attractions. Yet in the midst of all that seeks to draw young people away from what is good in the UK in the 21st Century, in the midst of all that inhibits young people from fulfilling their true potential, in the midst of all that seeks to draw young people away from understanding that duty, respect, commitment - to family, to community, that perseverance and hard work, - from understanding that all of these matter and that life is not all about “me”, in the midst of all this, Air Cadets, here you are. Here you are.
Yes, a small group, but standing – indeed standing strong like a beacon of hope in a nation which so needs you at this time, each and every one of you, to be the excellent example in your generation that you each have the potential to be; that you each are training and being trained to be by the amazingly committed and dedicated people who lead you.
Here you are, an encouragement and a hope for us all, so grasp your opportunities, appreciate your leaders in the ATC and your parents who give you these opportunities, keep going when you feel like giving up, encourage one another to fulfil your potential, do your best, go for gold, reach for the heights and never, ever, ever give up.
Remember, the secret of success is for a man or woman to be ready when their time comes. Our nation, in this generation, is depending on you.”
