17/06/2026
The OC has gone, long live the OIC!
It was the end of an era at 487 Sqn on 16th June as the officer commanding, Flt Lt Michelle Jeffries, said a fond farewell, and we welcomed the new Officer in Charge, Plt Off Finlay Allen.
Flt Lt Jeffries has been the OC of 487 since April 2023, and is now taking up the helm as OC 495 (Sutton Coldfield) Sqn. Michelle started her cadet career at 487 Sqn, and has steadily risen through the ranks. Michelle has also taken a key part in the Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing which has seen her take roles in the Wing Training Team, and as the Wing Media officer. She has also taken a keen interest in road marching, supporting national and international events.
The Sqn would like to thank her for all her hard work at the Sqn over the past few years, and we would also like to wish her the best of luck at 495.
Before Michelle handed over command, she took the opportunity to promote a number of cadets, so many congratulations go to:
Cdt Mckinnon, promoted to Corporal
Cdt Tait, promoted to Corporal
Cdt Shokar G, promoted to Corporal
Cpl Green, promoted to Sergeant
Cpl Ahmed, promoted to Sergeant
Sergeant Willets promoted to Flight Sergeant
Well done to them all.
Michelle was presented with a leaving gift by Mr Ian Dunbar, chairman of the Civilian Committee. Hopefully, the decanter will be put to good use!
The new Officer in Charge is Plt Off Finlay Allen. Again, Fin started his cadet career at 487 where he rose through the ranks. Fin has recently taken his commission, and he has also recently passed his combined initial course at RAF Cranwell. Well done, Fin, we are sure you will take the Sqn to new levels.
The handover ceremony was held at the Sea Cadets location in Sutton Coldfield, and was attended by guests which included Sqn Ldr Bob Foster who was representing the Wing Commander.
Onwards and Upwards!!
