Duchess of Cambridge: Support children’s mental health

The Duchess of Cambridge made an appearance at the 75th anniversary of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets on Sunday, where she took on her new role as Honorary Air Commandant and made the pledge to bring more volunteers to the association.

She met with cadets and attended a service at RAF church in St. Clement Danes in London. Though it is her first engagement as Honorary Air Commandant of the organization, Kate has had a close connection with the RAF ever since William flew as a rescue helicopter pilot a few years ago.

The patronage of Air Cadets was passed on to Kate by Prince Philip before Christmas, when the Queen’s husband relinquished his role as Air Commodore-in-Chief before Christmas, after 63 years of working with the organisation.

“A Kensington Palace spokesman said:” This is an opportunity for the Air Cadets to introduce their new patron, and for the Duchess to learn more about their numerous programmes and activities by meeting a selection of current cadets, veterans and adult volunteers”. The organisation now comprises of 42,000 cadets aged 12-19.

The ATC was first established in 1941 during the Second World War, with the aim to train young men in aviation skills before they joined the RAF.

But perhaps her most treasured accessory, apart of course from her sparkling engagement ring, was the stunning ruby RAF brooch pinned onto her coat.

She said: “I think it is fantastic”.

The Duchess wore a special Air Cadets brooch to mark the occasion. Her brother-in-law is a flier.

Ms Vorderman said later that the Duchess will be a big help in attracting women to what is often seen as a male-dominated sector. Her mum used to work in an airline. Like their colleagues, the female cadet will receive a sword to mark their achievements.