A stalwart of the Air Cadets Organisation has been awarded a Defence Council Letter of Appriciation (DCLA). Dr Peter Isherwood, a Civilian Instructor with 2168 (Yeadon) Squadron. The letter from the Second Permanent Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Defence pays tribute to his enthusiasm, communication skills and ability to motivate and influence young people which has been invaluable in contributing to the success of the cadets under his charge and helped many cadets achieve their full potential.
Peters primary role these days on the Squadron is as the Media Communications Officer in which he excels producing a large amount of press releases and more recently appearing with two of his team on the local radio promoting the Squadron and the wider organization.
Head of Media & Communications at Air Cadets Regional Headquarters (North) at RAF Linton-on-Ouse, Squadron Leader Mike Wadsworth said “Dr Isherwood has been the most prolific and consistent MCO in North Region for a number of years and has done a tremendous amount to promote the Air Cadets and in particular Yeadon Squadron. The squadron is a successful unit and it is no coincidence that successful units are often backed by a successful media team. I’m delighted for Peter that he received this award in recognition of his hard work over a great number of years.”
Commenting on his award Dr Isherwood was typically modest and said, “It is a great honour to be recognised for something I enjoy doing but really the credit goes to the young people from the squadron. It is their achievements that we report and their squadron we promote. I see this award and an acknowledgement of their work and activities and I am delighted to be able to be associated with that success.”
"Doc Ish" with cadets from Avon Squadron, New Zealand Air Cadets
Dr Isherwood, affectionately known as "Dr Ish", joined the squadron in 1989 for a six week period to cover an acute staffing shortage and is still with us after almost 19 years. Peter originally taught meteorology and now has responsibility for Media Communications and until recently the Duke of Edinburgh's Award.
He introduced and coordinates the BTEC in Public Services where 2168 was the first Squadron in South & West Yorkshire Wing to gain passes in the award. Peter received the ATC Certificate of long service and the voluntary service medal in 2002.
Away from the squadron, Peter, a former head teacher, was awarded his doctorate in 2005. After over thirty years of working in schools Peter started to work as a school inspector in England and Wales. More recently Peter has started to act as a consultant on the Department for Children, Schools and Families Value for Money Programme.
A former brass musician Peter still keeps his hand-in, playing the tea pot on special occasions.
